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Do I pay driver responsibility assessment for traffic violations?

New Yorkers who are confronted with the penalties for alleged traffic violations might have to deal with a driver license suspension, insurance impacts and even jail time. The alleged acts that led to the citation or arrest will dictate the penalties a person will face. The point system is often a source of confusion and other aspects of it can be complex. One issue that frequently causes uncertainty is the driver responsibility assessment. Knowing when this could be an issue is important when formulating a defense against the charges.

When a driver has amassed six or more points on their drivers license within 18 months, they will have a driver responsibility assessment. This is not a charge in lieu of other penalties, but is added to other penalties. Drivers will face the driver responsibility assessment if they have one of the following issues: they are convicted of DUI in a motor vehicle, boat, or snowmobile in the state; they refuse a chemical test to determine blood-alcohol content; they accrued six points or more on their license within 18 months for traffic violations not just in New York, but also in Ontario and Quebec.

The points will determine how much the driver responsibility assessment is. DUI or refusal will cost $250. For three years, that comes to $750. With six points or more in 18 months, it will cost $100 annually with a three-year total of $300. If it exceeds six points, the amount will rise by $25 every year for each point beyond six. Those who do not pay might have their driver license suspended. The suspension will be lifted once the payment is received.

The point system and driver responsibility assessment are in place to dissuade drivers from committing various acts that result in points being placed on their license. While it might not seem like a significant amount of money, the way that drivers end up paying for the driver responsibility assessment can be problematic with DUI, refusal and other allegations having various penalties linked to them. To avoid a conviction and the need to pay the driver responsibility assessment, having legal guidance from a law firm that handles traffic violations and other driving issues in New York is essential.

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James L. Riotto
Criminal Defense Lawyer

James L. Riotto is an accomplished criminal defense attorney serving clients in New York. With an extensive background in law enforcement and criminal prosecution, his approach to each case is unique and informed by years of experience with the New York criminal justice system. As a graduate from Albany Law School and before going on to start his own practice, James worked at the Albany County District Attorney's Office, where he helped prosecute many DWI offenses. His inside knowledge of the tactics used to gain convictions provides him with a particular advantage when defending against DUI and other criminal charges.

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Adam D. Staier
Of Counsel

About Attorney Adam Staier has spent the last seven years practicing criminal defense law throughout upstate New York and the Capital Region. He began his legal career through internships in civil law, indigent legal representation and federal energy law regulation. Finding a passion in criminal law, Mr. Staier held internships handling both prosecution and defense…

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William M. Swift
Associate Attorney

About William M. Swift is an associate attorney at the Law Office of James L. Riotto and brings 20 years of experience to our clients. His practice focuses on personal injury cases and criminal matters. He has successfully represented individuals in felony, misdemeanor cases. Additionally, he has extensive knowledge in DMV administrative proceedings involving suspensions…

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