Understanding VTL 1160(a) Improper Right Turn

On the ticket, the description of violation may appear as “IMPROP RT TURN INTER” or “IMPROPER RT TURN INTERSECTION”.

Vehicle & Traffic Law § 1160(a) relates to something that happens every time we drive – making a right turn. There are two basic requirements: (1) You can only make a right turn from the most right-hand lane and (2) You can only turn into the most right-hand lane. Not complying with these two rules can result in a traffic ticket. Pleading guilty to VTL 1160-a will put two points on your driver’s license. If you got a ticket in New York City, the fine is $138. If you got the ticket outside of NYC, the fine is determined by the judge and can go up to $243. The biggest cost of this ticket is the increased insurance rates. With this violation appearing on your record, there is a good chance your insurance company will raise your premiums for several years.

Statute

The wording of the relevant statute is as follows:

Both the approach for a right turn and a right turn shall be made as close as practicable to the right hand curb or edge of the roadway or, where travel on the shoulder or slope has been authorized, from the shoulder or slope.

Benjamin Goldman Law Office

The Benjamin Goldman Law Office is a New York State traffic ticket defense firm. We help motorists in New York City and other areas throughout the state. We have fought this ticket in Manhattan and Brooklyn on many occasions. Our attorneys have also gotten such charges dismissed or reduced to parking tickets in many justice courts, including specifically Nassau TVA, Amherst, and Halfmoon. The team at the Benjamin Goldman Law Office will be glad to take on your case. You contact us at your convenience during regular business. We are available by phone call, text message, or email. Consultations are free.

How to Fight Improper Turn Ticket in NYC

To fight an improper turn ticket (VTL 1160(a)) in NYC, plead Not Guilty and require the prosecution to prove the case. Our firm has obtained dismissals or reductions for this charge in Manhattan and Brooklyn TVB, as well as Nassau and town courts across the state.

• Plead Not Guilty: Exercising your right to a hearing does not mean you deny the facts—it requires the officer to prove the case. According to standard court procedure, omissions, contradictions, or procedural failures in the charging instrument can result in dismissal.
• Challenge procedural deficiencies: Many 1160(a) tickets are beatable when the prosecution fails to meet technical requirements. An attorney can identify legal or factual issues that make the ticket ripe for dismissal or negotiation to a non-moving violation.
• Use an attorney: A traffic lawyer can appear at Manhattan or Brooklyn TVB, or in town courts, on your behalf. Per VTL 1160, an improper turn is 2 points and $138 in NYC—fighting can avoid the points and insurance impact.

Fight Your VTL § 1160(a) Ticket