Traffic Violations Attorney in Blasdell, NY
Do You Need Legal Help?
DWI Charge Reduced
A Canadian resident was charged with a DWI after a Bills game. Arthur convinced the court the test reading was wrong and got the charge reduced, sparing the client a criminal charge.
DWI Case Dismissed
After a woman was charged at a DWI checkpoint, Arthur contested the legality of the roadblock and found procedures weren't properly followed. The DWI charges were dismissed and her license restored.
DWI Charge Reduced
A Buffalo woman was charged with a DWI and blew a 0.23 BAC. Arthur took the case to trial and was successful in keeping the breath test reading from being introduced as evidence. Her charge was reduced to a DWAI.
Arthur Pressman focuses in the areas of DWI, traffic law and criminal defense.
Arthur is a 1982 graduate of the State University of New York at Albany. He earned his law degree from the University of Miami School of Law in 1985 and practiced with the law firm of Heller & Rubin in Miami, Florida from 1986 to 1988. In 1988, Arthur relocated to Buffalo, where he opened his own practice where he has continued to defend those accused of crimes in the Buffalo and Niagara Falls, New York area.


Check Out Our Traffic Violations Guide
View the guideTraffic Violations Attorney in Blasdell, NY
Facing a traffic ticket in Blasdell, NY may seem minor at first. Many drivers assume paying the fine is the simplest path, but in New York, that decision can carry serious consequences. Traffic violations can add points to your license, increase insurance premiums, lead to license suspension, and sometimes even trigger criminal charges. A single ticket might appear small, yet it can start a chain of penalties affecting your driving record and financial stability.
At this critical time, having a skilled advocate makes all the difference. Arthur L. Pressman is a Traffic Violations Attorney in Blasdell, NY who aggressively fights these charges and acts immediately upon being hired. He understands the New York DMV point system and knows how to challenge tickets to safeguard your driving privileges and prevent insurance rates from skyrocketing. Many traffic violations carry consequences beyond the initial fine, and a prompt, strategic response can protect you from long-term problems.
Arthur L. Pressman offers free consultations, giving you the chance to review your case and understand your options without pressure. From speeding tickets to more serious violations, he handles each matter with professional guidance, clear communication, and empathy. By taking action early, you protect your license, minimize financial impact, and ensure your rights are fully defended in Blasdell and nearby areas.
Traffic Violations and Their Consequences in New York
In New York, the Department of Motor Vehicles uses a point system to track moving violations under the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL). Each violation adds points to your driving record, and accumulating 11 or more points within 18 months can result in a license suspension. The Driver Responsibility Assessment program requires drivers with 6 or more points to pay an additional annual surcharge on top of any fines. Insurance companies review these points, so a traffic ticket can cost far more than the initial fine due to increased premiums and fees.
Traffic violations Arthur L. Pressman defends in Blasdell, NY include:
Speeding tickets: Governed by VTL § 1180, speeding violations carry points depending on how much the driver exceeds the speed limit. Points range from 3 for going 1 to 10 miles per hour over the limit up to 11 points for exceeding the limit by more than 40 miles per hour. A high-speed ticket alone can trigger a license suspension.
Reckless driving: Defined under VTL § 1212, reckless driving occurs when a driver operates a vehicle in a way that unreasonably endangers others. It carries 5 points, fines, and a possible jail sentence of up to 30 days for a first offense. Because it is a misdemeanor, a conviction creates a criminal record in addition to a traffic record.
Driving with a suspended or revoked license: VTL § 511 makes it a misdemeanor to operate a vehicle while your license is suspended or revoked. Penalties escalate with repeat offenses, including additional suspension periods, fines, and potential jail time. Restoring full driving privileges can become significantly more difficult after a conviction.
Leaving the scene of an accident: Under VTL § 600, drivers must stop, provide identification, and offer reasonable assistance. Leaving the scene of a property damage accident is a misdemeanor. If the accident involves injury or death, it becomes a felony carrying up to four years in prison.
Driving without insurance: VTL § 319 requires all vehicles to have liability insurance. Driving without insurance leads to license revocation for at least one year, a civil penalty of up to $1,500, and a $750 penalty to restore the license after revocation.
Cell phone and electronic device violations: VTL § 1225-d and § 1225-e prohibit using handheld phones and portable devices while driving. These violations carry 5 points and fines ranging from $200 for a first offense to $450 for a third within 18 months, plus additional surcharges.
Even a single traffic violation in Blasdell, NY can create long-term effects because of points, fines, surcharges, and insurance consequences.
New York Traffic Law: What the Statute Requires
New York’s DMV Point System and the Driver Responsibility Assessment
In New York, the DMV assigns points to a driver’s license, not to the vehicle, whenever a moving violation occurs under the Vehicle and Traffic Law. These points accumulate over an 18-month rolling period, meaning the DMV always considers your most recent violations. When a driver reaches 11 points within any 18-month period, the DMV issues a notice of proposed license suspension under VTL § 510.
The Driver Responsibility Assessment program under VTL § 1199 adds an additional financial burden. Drivers with 6 or more points within 18 months must pay $100 per year for three years, plus $25 per year for each point above six. These fees are separate from court fines and surcharges. Even a single high-speed ticket for exceeding the limit by more than 40 miles per hour carries 11 points, triggering a suspension on its own. This illustrates why it is almost always worth contesting a ticket instead of simply paying the fine and accepting the points.
The Difference Between a Traffic Infraction and a Misdemeanor in New York
Not all traffic violations are treated equally under New York law. Most moving violations, such as speeding, running a red light, or improper lane changes, are considered traffic infractions under the VTL and do not create a criminal record. Certain offenses, however, are misdemeanors or felonies. Reckless driving under VTL § 1212 is a misdemeanor, while driving with a suspended license under VTL § 511 begins as a misdemeanor and escalates to a felony for third and subsequent offenses within ten years. Leaving the scene of an accident that causes injury is a felony, as is aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree. When a traffic stop results in a misdemeanor or felony charge, the person is facing a criminal case, not just a ticket. This carries serious legal consequences, and immediate legal representation is essential.
License Suspension and Revocation: How New York Takes Your License
New York uses suspension and revocation to control driving privileges. A mandatory suspension occurs when a driver accumulates 11 points in 18 months. Certain DWI and alcohol-related offenses trigger mandatory revocations. Suspensions can also occur for failing to pay fines or appear in court under VTL § 510(4), which is one of the most common and avoidable triggers. Leaving the scene of an accident that causes injury can lead to license revocation.
Suspension is temporary, while revocation ends the license completely and requires a full reapplication after the revocation period. Driving on a suspended or revoked license under VTL § 511 can result in criminal prosecution, making the situation far worse. Arthur L. Pressman can often help clients address the underlying issues, such as unpaid fines or failure to appear, as part of resolving their current case.
How Arthur L. Pressman Fights Traffic Violations in New York
Just because a ticket was issued does not mean the driver is guilty. Arthur L. Pressman challenges the evidence, the officer’s observations, and the legal basis for the stop or citation to protect your driving record and rights.
Challenging the officer’s observations and equipment: For speeding tickets based on radar or LIDAR, the accuracy of the device is not always guaranteed. Arthur L. Pressman reviews calibration records, the officer’s training and certification, and any potential errors. Mistakes in these areas can lead to the ticket being dismissed.
Challenging the legal basis for the traffic stop: Under the Fourth Amendment, a police officer must have reasonable suspicion to stop a vehicle. If the stop was not legally justified, any evidence obtained, including the officer’s observations of the driver, may be suppressed and not used against the driver.
Negotiating a reduction to a lesser violation: When a ticket is difficult to defeat outright, Arthur L. Pressman often negotiates with the district attorney or traffic prosecutor. Reducing the violation to a lower-point offense or a non-moving violation can prevent points from being added to the driver’s license.
Seeking a dismissal based on procedural errors: Tickets can be dismissed for errors on the ticket, the officer failing to appear at the hearing, or procedural defects in how the court or Traffic Violations Bureau handled the matter. Arthur L. Pressman carefully reviews all paperwork and court processes to identify these opportunities.
Addressing underlying suspensions to restore driving privileges: If a client is charged with driving on a suspended license, Arthur L. Pressman works to resolve the underlying cause. This includes unpaid fines, missed court dates, or lapsed insurance, helping to fully restore driving privileges as part of the case resolution.
Defending misdemeanor traffic charges as criminal matters: Charges like reckless driving, leaving the scene of an accident, or driving with a suspended license are treated as criminal offenses in New York. Arthur L. Pressman prepares motions, plans for trial, and negotiates outcomes that can avoid a criminal conviction while protecting the client’s record.
This approach ensures that every case is handled thoroughly and that every option is considered to reduce the consequences of a traffic violation in Blasdell, NY.
Related Videos
What to Do After Receiving a Traffic Ticket in Blasdell, NY
The steps you take after receiving a traffic ticket can affect how much the violation ultimately costs in points, fines, and insurance increases.
Do not simply pay the ticket: Paying a traffic ticket in New York is considered an admission of guilt. The points, fines, and insurance consequences take effect immediately. Before paying, consult Arthur L. Pressman to determine whether fighting the ticket or negotiating a reduction makes sense for your situation.
Note the court date and respond on time: Your ticket will list a court date or a deadline to respond to the Traffic Violations Bureau if issued in New York City. Missing this date results in a default conviction and can trigger additional license suspension for failure to appear. Keep the ticket and respond by the deadline.
Write down everything you remember about the stop: Record details such as road conditions, traffic, weather, what the officer said, where the violation occurred, and any witnesses. These details can be critical when building a defense, as memories fade quickly.
Do not discuss the ticket on social media: Any statements about the stop, ticket, or your actions can be used against you in a hearing or court proceeding. Avoid public discussions until the matter is resolved.
Contact Arthur L. Pressman as soon as possible: The earlier an attorney is involved, the more options you have. Arthur L. Pressman offers free consultations and can advise on whether to contest the ticket, negotiate a reduction, or pursue another strategy based on the specific violation and your driving record.
The cost of simply paying a ticket in points, higher insurance rates, and potential license consequences almost always exceeds the cost of contesting it with the help of an attorney.
Why Drivers in Blasdell, NY Choose Arthur L. Pressman to Fight Their Traffic Tickets
For most drivers, a traffic ticket is more than just a fine. It can trigger a series of financial and legal consequences that last for years. Points added to your license, higher insurance premiums, Driver Responsibility Assessments, and the risk of a license suspension can all result from a single conviction. Arthur L. Pressman approaches each ticket with the full picture in mind, fighting not just the fine but the potential long-term impact on your driving record and financial stability.
Arthur L. Pressman handles traffic tickets in both the traditional New York court system and the New York City Traffic Violations Bureau. TVB hearings have unique rules, procedures, and standards that differ from criminal or traffic court. Drivers who represent themselves or hire an attorney unfamiliar with TVB procedures can face a significant disadvantage. With careful preparation and knowledge of these processes, he ensures that your case is presented clearly and effectively.
For drivers facing misdemeanor traffic charges, such as reckless driving, driving with a suspended license, or leaving the scene of an accident, Arthur L. Pressman treats the matter as a full criminal case. These charges carry consequences beyond points, including the creation of a criminal record. He prepares each case thoroughly, handling motions, court appearances, and negotiations to achieve the best possible outcome while protecting your rights.
Arthur L. Pressman, Attorney at Law, offers free consultations to review your ticket, examine your driving record, and provide an honest assessment of your options and likely outcomes. There is no cost and no obligation for the initial consultation. Drivers seeking a Traffic Violations Attorney in Blasdell, NY can rely on him to take immediate action and guide them through every step of the process.
Blog Posts
Mistakes to Avoid After Receiving a Traffic Ticket in Blasdell, NY
Paying the Ticket Without Consulting a Lawyer
Paying a traffic ticket in New York is considered a guilty plea. While it may seem quick and simple, it comes with the full consequences of the violation. Points are added to your license immediately, the DMV is notified, and your insurance company is informed at your next renewal. If the ticket pushes you over six or eleven points, the Driver Responsibility Assessment and license suspension penalties follow automatically. Many drivers assume the cost is just the fine listed on the ticket, but insurance increases can make the actual cost two to three times higher over several years. Consulting Arthur L. Pressman before paying takes just a phone call and is free of charge.
Missing the Court Date or TVB Response Deadline
In New York, failing to respond to a traffic ticket by the stated deadline or missing a scheduled hearing results in a default conviction. This triggers a separate license suspension for failure to answer or appear, adding to the original violation. Many drivers do not realize their license is suspended until they are stopped again, facing the additional criminal charge of driving with a suspended license. Arthur L. Pressman ensures that all deadlines are met and no default convictions occur.
Assuming a Reckless Driving or Suspended License Charge Is Just a Ticket
Reckless driving under VTL § 1212 and driving with a suspended license under VTL § 511 are misdemeanors in New York, not simple traffic infractions. A conviction for either creates a criminal record visible on background checks, can affect employment and professional licensing, and may include jail time. Treating these charges as routine tickets and appearing without counsel puts a person at serious risk of a criminal conviction they may not have understood they were facing.
Not Addressing the Underlying Cause of a License Suspension
Many drivers charged with driving on a suspended license were unaware of the suspension or had it due to an unpaid fine, missed court date, or lapsed insurance rather than a serious moving violation. Addressing the underlying cause is often possible and can be a key part of a defense strategy. Arthur L. Pressman investigates the basis of every suspension and works to resolve the underlying issues as part of handling the current matter.
Representing Yourself at a TVB Hearing Without Understanding the Process
The New York City Traffic Violations Bureau has its own rules and procedures, and Administrative Law Judges are experienced in handling cases efficiently. Drivers representing themselves often do not know how to effectively cross-examine the officer, challenge device calibration records, or present legal arguments. Arthur L. Pressman knows TVB procedures and uses them to the client’s advantage rather than letting them become an obstacle.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traffic Tickets in Blasdell, NY
In most cases, yes, especially for tickets carrying three or more points. The cost of accepting points on a New York license compounds quickly through insurance rate increases, Driver Responsibility Assessments, and the risk of suspension if additional points are added later. Arthur L. Pressman offers a free consultation to review your ticket and driving record and give you an honest assessment of whether fighting or negotiating the ticket makes financial and legal sense for your specific situation.
New York will suspend your license if you accumulate 11 or more points within any 18-month rolling period. Additionally, drivers who accumulate six or more points within 18 months are subject to the Driver Responsibility Assessment, an annual surcharge of $100 per year for three years, plus $25 per year for each point above six. These consequences are in addition to any court fines and surcharges from the underlying tickets.
The New York City Traffic Violations Bureau handles most traffic infraction tickets issued in the five boroughs. It is an administrative tribunal, not a criminal court, with its own rules, hearing procedures, and Administrative Law Judges. Cases outside of New York City are handled in local criminal, town, or village courts under standard court rules. Knowing how each system works is critical to building an effective defense.
Yes. Insurance companies obtain your driving record, including moving violation convictions, at policy renewal. The number and severity of violations on your record affect your premium. Even one speeding ticket can increase your insurance rate by a meaningful percentage for three to five years. Preventing the conviction through a dismissal, reduction, or negotiated lower-point offense helps protect your insurance rate.
Yes. Reckless driving under VTL § 1212 is a misdemeanor in New York, not a traffic infraction. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record, carries five DMV points, and can result in fines, surcharges, and up to 30 days in jail for a first offense, with escalating penalties for repeat offenses. Anyone charged with reckless driving in Blasdell, NY should contact Arthur L. Pressman immediately.
Driving with a suspended or revoked license under VTL § 511 is a misdemeanor for a first offense and escalates to a felony for the third or subsequent offense within ten years. Criminal penalties are added to the suspension period, and restoring full driving privileges becomes much harder. Arthur L. Pressman handles both the criminal charge and the administrative steps needed to address the underlying suspension.
Leaving the scene of an accident involving only property damage under VTL § 600(1) is a traffic infraction for a first offense. Leaving the scene of an accident causing personal injury under VTL § 600(2) is a misdemeanor for a first offense, carrying fines and up to one year in jail. Leaving the scene of an accident involving death or serious physical injury is a felony. Anyone charged under VTL § 600 for injury or death faces serious criminal exposure and needs legal representation immediately.
Yes. Arthur L. Pressman offers free consultations for anyone facing a traffic ticket or traffic-related charge in Blasdell, NY. During the consultation, he will review the violation, check the point consequences, evaluate your driving record, and provide a clear picture of your options and the likely outcome of each. There is no cost and no obligation.
Contact Arthur L. Pressman — Traffic Ticket Lawyer in Blasdell, NY
Even a single traffic ticket can trigger a chain of financial and legal consequences that many drivers do not anticipate. Points, higher insurance premiums, Driver Responsibility Assessments, and the risk of license suspension can all follow from one conviction. Acting quickly after receiving a ticket is crucial to protecting your driving record and avoiding unnecessary costs.
Arthur L. Pressman offers free consultations and begins working immediately upon hire. He handles cases in both the traditional court system and the New York City Traffic Violations Bureau, as well as misdemeanor traffic charges such as reckless driving, driving with a suspended license, and leaving the scene of an accident. He fights to reduce points, protect insurance rates, and resolve cases in the most favorable way possible.
Contact Arthur L. Pressman today to review your traffic ticket and learn your options. Call or schedule a free consultation now and take the first step toward protecting your driving privileges with a Traffic Violations Attorney in Blasdell, NY.
Client Reviews
![]()

