When you’re dealing with heavy traffic, especially in states like New York, you might see attempts to avoid congestion and gridlock. So, if you’re driving around a high-population area, you might notice signs about “blocking the box.†But what does this mean?
Being pulled over or given a ticket for blocking the box can be confusing if you’re not sure what, exactly, that means. Fortunately, your lawyer can walk you through what it means, what consequences a ticket for blocking the box could have, and how you can fight back when you’ve received a ticket.
What Is the Box?
First, what does it mean to block the box? In areas with heavy traffic congestion, keeping traffic flowing is vital to avoiding worse traffic, both for drivers and pedestrians. As such, it’s illegal in many places to block the intersection and crosswalks.
So, let’s say you’re trying to get through the intersection, and you’re part of the way across. Then, the light changes, but the driver in front of you doesn’t move up far enough to let you clear the intersection. Now, you’re stopped across the crosswalk, and at least one lane of traffic can’t get past you.
This blocking could easily lead to gridlock, making it impossible for traffic to flow as normal.
The Cost of Blocking
Unfortunately, if you do block the box, the consequences can be expensive. You’ll have the fines to deal with—if you plead guilty—but that might not be the only cost. Before you accept your ticket by pleading guilty, look at the consequences you’ll face.
For example, blocking the box will also put points on your license. If you receive over eleven points within eighteen months, you could have your license suspended. Blocking the box is only worth a few points, but if you have points on your license already, it could be enough to push you over the limit.
That would mean you’ll be unable to drive for some time. You’ll be stuck with your expenses, like your insurance and upkeep, but now, you’ll need to pay for public transportation and rideshare services or rely on family and friends when you need to get somewhere. That limits your options for transport and puts strain on your budget.
Fighting Your Ticket
You might have already seen the signs, but you might not be certain what blocking the box means until you’ve already been pulled over. Unfortunately, the consequences can be serious if you’ve already gotten a few points on your license.
Fortunately, you don’t have to plead guilty. Instead, you can choose to fight back and get your traffic ticket dismissed. All you need to beat the ticket is the help of a lawyer from the Law Office of James Medows.
If you’re struggling with your traffic ticket after you blocked the box, speak to an experienced NYC traffic ticket attorney who can help you get those fines dropped. For more information about our services or to set up a consultation, call us at 917-856-1247 or fill out the contact form on our site.