Pink Summons for Running a Red Light?
VTL 1111 (d) (1) is being enforced against drivers (and bikers) by the NYPD.
In a response to increased public complaints about drivers and bicyclists running red lights, the NYPD is stepping up enforcement. Previously, the NYPD would often look the other way or give the offender a ticket that could be paid by mail or fought at a traffic violations bureau. A criminal court appearance ticket, sometimes called a pink ticket or a summons, means your case will be heard in criminal court but contact us to review your options. We can appear in court for you and fight to get it dismissed. Click here if you'd like to send us a photo of your ticket and we'll contact you by email, text, or phone to go over your options.
Vehicle and Traffic Law section 1111 (d) (1) states:
“Vehicular traffic facing a steady circular red signal alone shall stop at a clearly marked stop line, but if none, before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection, or if none, then at the point nearest the intersection where the driver has a view of approaching traffic on the intersecting roadway before entering the intersection and shall remain standing until an indication to proceed is shown…”
The biker needs to come to a complete stop at a red light and traveling through the intersection before the light turns green is prohibited. This law applies to vehicles, and regular and electric bikes.
Under New York law, VTL section 102-C defines classes of bicycles with electric assist, and these are allowed on roadways and subject to traffic laws applicable to vehicles. Section 1111 (d) (1) applies to “vehicular traffic” and “vehicle” under VTL section 159 includes all bicycles. VTL section 1231 states:
VTL § 1231 explicitly states:
“Every person riding a bicycle… upon a roadway shall be granted all of the rights and shall be subject to all of the duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle…”
This includes:
- Obeying traffic control signals (like red lights),
- Yielding at stop signs,
- Following lane markings, etc.
Consequences
- Traffic infraction
- Fines $190 to $270 (higher fines for subsequent violations)
- 3 points if you have a drivers license which can lead to a suspension
- Insurance and DMV problems (if you have a drivers license)
- Court appearance (but contact us to see if we can appear for you)
If you received a pink colored criminal court appearance ticket in New York City, contact us for a consultation regarding your options. We might be able to go to court for you and fight the ticket. You can send us a photo of your ticket here and we can take a look and respond by phone, text, or email.