What to Do If You Get a Traffic Ticket on the Taconic Parkway
The Taconic State Parkway is one of the most scenic, and most heavily patrolled roads in the Hudson Valley. Whether you're commuting, traveling for the weekend, or just passing through Dutchess County, it's not uncommon to find yourself pulled over for speeding or other traffic violations.
Here are the most common questions we get from drivers who’ve received a ticket on the Taconic, and what you need to know to protect your license, your record, and your wallet.
Q: Why is the Taconic Parkway such a hotspot for traffic tickets?
A: The Taconic has a reputation for strict enforcement, especially in Dutchess County but Columbia County is also a hotspot. The speed limit is lower than many drivers expect (usually 55 mph), and state troopers regularly monitor the road, especially around areas like Milan, Red Hook, LaGrange, East Fishkill, and Pleasant Valley. The combination of winding roads, quick elevation changes, and impatient drivers makes it an easy place to get pulled over. George Selby, Esq. has resolved hundreds of cases all along the Taconic.
Q: I just got a speeding ticket — what are my options?
A: You have three main options:
Plead guilty and pay the fine (not recommended without speaking to a lawyer).
Plead not guilty and fight the ticket in local traffic court.
Hire an attorney to handle the case on your behalf.
In many cases, an experienced traffic lawyer can negotiate a reduction in fines, points, or charges — or even get the ticket dismissed, depending on the circumstances.
Q: What kind of penalties am I facing for a speeding ticket in New York?
A: New York uses a point system, and speeding tickets can add anywhere from 3 to 11 points on your license depending on how fast you were going over the limit. Here’s a quick breakdown:
1–10 mph over the limit = 3 points
11–20 mph = 4 points
21–30 mph = 6 points
31–40 mph = 8 points
Over 40 mph = 11 points (possible license suspension)
You’ll also pay a fine and surcharge, and if you get 6 or more points in an 18-month period, you’ll be hit with a Driver Responsibility Assessment Fee from the DMV, on top of everything else.
Q: Do I have to appear in court in Dutchess County if I live out of the area?
A: Not necessarily. If you hire an attorney, they can often appear in court on your behalf, especially for non-criminal infractions like speeding or failure to yield. This is particularly helpful for NYC drivers or out-of-state visitors who were ticketed while driving through the Hudson Valley.
Q: Is it worth fighting a speeding ticket on the Taconic?
A: Yes, absolutely — especially if you’re facing points on your license, increased insurance premiums, or already have prior violations. Even if you think you were speeding, the ticket may be negotiable. Prosecutors often allow attorneys to negotiate lesser charges, like parking violations, that carry no points and have smaller fines.
Q: What happens if I ignore the ticket?
A: Ignoring a traffic ticket in New York can lead to license suspension, additional fines, and even arrest warrants. If you missed a court date or forgot to respond, you should speak to a traffic attorney right away, since they can often help vacate the default and get your case back on track.
Q: Are there any defenses that actually work for speeding tickets on the Taconic?
A: It depends on the specifics of the stop. Some possible defenses include:
Faulty radar or pacing techniques
Improperly calibrated equipment
Mistaken identity or poor visibility
Procedural issues with how the ticket was issued
Speeding tickets can be very difficult to defend, however. An attorney like George Selby, Esq. will review the ticket, check for legal flaws, and determine if a defense or plea negotiation is your best option.
Q: How can a traffic lawyer help me?
A: A local traffic lawyer like George Selby, Esq. can:
Appear in court for you
Negotiate with prosecutors
Reduce or eliminate points
Help you avoid license suspension
Potentially keep your insurance rates from increasing
George Selby, Esq. is personally acquainted with many of the Hudson Valley’s local courts, judges, prosecutors, and that local experience can make a big difference.
Who Can Help with a Ticket on the Taconic Parkway?
If you’ve received a traffic ticket anywhere along the Taconic whether it’s in Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess, or Columbia County, we’re here to help. Contact our office today for a free consultation and learn your legal options before you plead guilty.
Points Lowered or Your Fee Refunded*
We stand behind our work. If we cannot obtain any reduction of points (and your only option is to plead Guilty to the same charge(s) you started with or go to Trial) we will refund 100% of the legal fees you paid.
*Applies to traffic violations only. Excludes misdemeanor and felony charges.