VTL § 117-d, Unauthorized Driver (Blood/Emergency Vehicle)

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VTL § 117-d Statute

Every vehicle owned, designated and operated by the not-for-profit corporation incorporated under the name New York blood center specifically equipped for and used in response to reports of the need for transportation of blood or blood products to general hospitals or other health care facilities. No blood delivery vehicle shall be operated as an authorized emergency vehicle engaged in an emergency operation unless the driver of such vehicle has undergone appropriate training for the operation of authorized emergency vehicles during emergency operations.

Source: NYS Vehicle & Traffic Law § 117-d (nysenate.gov)

Plain-English Summary

VTL § 117-d targets a very specific situation: driving a vehicle that's designated for emergency blood (or similar medical) transport when you're not authorized to do so. These are typically vehicles used by blood banks, hospitals, or emergency response organizations.

What are the penalties?

• Fine and jail: Per the NY State Legislature, a first offense is punishable by a fine of $0–$150 and 0–15 days in jail (though exceedingly unlikely); second and third offenses within 18 months carry higher penalties.
• Points: 0 points.
• Surcharge: $88 or $93 surcharge applies.

Instance of VTL § 117-d

In a reported March 2025 incident in Box Hill, Australia, police alleged that a man stole a pathology van transporting blood donations, drove it into another area, and abandoned it while the vehicle was moving before it crashed. The report states there were no injuries and the blood donations were not compromised.

• How this is relevant to VTL § 117-d: If this had happened in the State of New York, not only would this individual be charged with grand theft auto, but on top of that, they would be charged with VTL § 117-d as well. but they would also be violating the laws of be New York specifically regulates blood delivery vehicles used in emergency operations and requires appropriate driver training before emergency operation.
• Source: The Local Paper, "WHITEHORSE: Blood van stolen at Box Hill".

Benjamin Goldman Law Office

If you were charged with a VTL § 117-d violation, the Benjamin Goldman Law Office can advise you on your options. We help with traffic and vehicle matters across New York State. You can contact us for a free consultation. We can be reached through our contact page or the courts we serve.

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