VTL § 370-2, Operating Uninsured For-Hire Vehicle

The Benjamin Goldman Law Office can help with New York Vehicle & Traffic Law violations. VTL § 370 (Article 8) requires evidence of a bond or insurance for vehicles used to carry or transport passengers for hire. Subdivision 2 makes it a misdemeanor to operate—or permit operation of—such a vehicle while the required bond or policy is not on file with the commissioner and in full force and effect. If you were charged with this offense, we can help. We can help with tickets in courts across the state. See our testimonials, courts we appear in, and contact us for a consultation.

Vehicle & Traffic Law § 370(2), Operating Uninsured For-Hire Vehicle

Under VTL § 370(1), every person, firm, association or corporation engaged in the business of carrying or transporting passengers for hire (with certain exceptions) must file with the commissioner evidence of a corporate surety bond or policy of insurance for each motor vehicle or motorcycle operated on New York public streets or highways. Subdivision 2 provides that any person, firm, association or corporation operating a motor vehicle or motorcycle as to which a bond or policy of insurance is required by this section who or which shall operate such vehicle, or cause the same to be operated, while such a bond or policy, or evidence thereof as required by this section, is not on file with the commissioner, and in full force and effect shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. The NY DMV administers these requirements.

What are the penalties?

• Fine and jail: Per the Vehicle & Traffic Law Manual for Local Courts (Magill 2024), this is a misdemeanor. First offense: $0–$300 fine, 0–30 days in jail; second and third offenses within 18 months carry higher penalties.
• Points: 0 points.
• Surcharge: $88 or $93 surcharge applies.

VTL § 370(2) Statute

Any person, firm, association or corporation operating a motor vehicle or motorcycle as to which a bond or policy of insurance is required by this section who or which shall operate such vehicle, or cause the same to be operated, while such a bond or policy, or evidence thereof as required by this section, is not on file with the commissioner, and in full force and effect shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

Source: NYS Vehicle & Traffic Law § 370(2) (nysenate.gov)

Benjamin Goldman Law Office

If you were charged with a VTL § 370(2) violation, the Benjamin Goldman Law Office can advise you. We can help with Article 8 and traffic matters across New York. Contact us for a complimentary consultation via our contact page.

Fight Your VTL § 370-2 Ticket