More Than 80,000 Scofflaws May Avoid the “Boot” — And a Tow — by Seeking Amnesty

Newsday recently reported that 43,000 Suffolk County drivers who have not paid three or more red-light camera tickets and another 40,000 with outstanding tickets for moving or parking violations will have their vehicles booted and towed if they did not pay off their unpaid tickets by March 1. However, they can avoid this scenario if they take advantage of the county’s Amnesty Program.

Suffolk’s Traffic and Parking Violations Agency announced that scofflaw drivers had until February 20 to take advantage of the agency’s Amnesty Program. Under the program, motorists with outstanding red-light camera fines as of November 30, 2018, can pay off their tickets and waive the $25 late fee (drivers must not have their registration suspended or be facing a suspension hearing to be eligible for amnesty). Those with moving violations and those who pled down to parking tickets can also take advantage of this program.

According to the article, there are 548,888 unpaid tickets in Suffolk County, of which 437,615 come from red light camera violations, as well as moving violations and parking tickets. By implementing the boot and tow, Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone said, the county looks to collect $2 million in revenue alone. He also said that collecting money from the unpaid tickets will bring in $24.7 million in revenue this year, but the agency forecast $23.9 million in revenue.

The program is similar to what is currently being implemented in Nassau County. According to Newsday, since the beginning of the year, 14,408 vehicles were booted by the county. Since the program began in 2012, Nassau has collected $27.2 million.

An experienced Long Island traffic lawyer can help retain your driving privileges and minimize fines. The Long Island traffic lawyers at McGuire, Peláez & Bennett, PC are experienced in handling these cases and will fight vigorously on your behalf. For information or to schedule a consultation, contact our Suffolk County traffic lawyers at (631) 348-1702.