Did you know that the blocking the box Fine increased? That is correct. Blocking an intersection in the past resulted in a US$55.00 (fifty-five) fine and 2 (two) points on your license.

If you got the ticket after July 7, 2008 (the exact same day the MTA raised their fare evasion to US$100.00) then you will not get any points if that was your only infraction.

You see, you should not receive a ticket for a moving violation for obstructing traffic at an intersection in New York because you are not moving.

§ 1175. Obstructing traffic at intersection. When vehicular traffic is stopped on the opposite side of an intersection, no person shall drive a vehicle into such intersection, except when making a turn unless there is adequate space on the opposite side of the intersection to accommodate the vehicle he is driving notwithstanding the indication of a traffic control signal which would permit him to proceed.

You are actually parked so you will be giving a type of parking ticket which carries no points but instead of paying US$55.00 for the ticket, the fine has been increased by US$60.00 and now costs US$115.00.

If you were very unfortunate to have gotten trapped in the box, you were most likely following too close so you should not do so in the future.

If you were following too close, a traffic cop could give you a second ticket for tailgating (which is a moving violation) if they were watching you procede down the block.

If you feel you are NOT guilty of blocking the box, here is some helpful info to know which can save some time.

Join us in our New York Forum if you have any comments or questions.