How to Beat a NYC Parking Ticket for "No Standing-Bus Stop"

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How to Beat a NYC Parking Ticket for "No Standing-Bus Stop"

Posted by Larry Berezin on Thu, Jul 23, 2009 @ 03:36 PM

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Larry's Blog has received a rash of questions about NYC parking tickets for violating Code 19: No Standing-Bus Stop.

Can I be issued a NYC parking ticket when I only stopped in a bus stop zone to drop off or pick up a passenger?
How do I know the length of a bus stop? I was parked far away from the bus stop sign?
Can I look for a yellow painted curb to designate a bus stop zone?

The NYC parking rule

Violation Code (VC) 19 prohibits:

Bus Stop: Standing or parking where standing is prohibited by sign, street marking or; traffic control device

Traffic Rules, Chapter 4-08(c)(3) states:

No person shall stand or park a vehicle orther than an authorized bus in its assigned bus stop when any such stop has been officially designated and appropriately posted except that the operator of a vehicle may temporarily stand therein for the purpose of expeditiously receiving and discharging passengers provided such standing does not interfere with any bus about to enter or leave such zone

Commentary

Here's my take on the subject:

You can beat a bus stop ticket if you are dropping off or picking up a passenger.
Don't expect to find a yellow curb to indicate a bus stop zone. That would be too easy
The parking signs on the block hold the secret to the length of a bus stop zone. There must be at least one official NYC parking sign that designates the beginning of a bus stop zone, with an arrow indicating the direction(s) of the bus stop zone. There does not have to be a second bus stop sign to indicate the end of the bus stop zone.
The bus stop sign regulates the portion of the block in the direction of the arrow until the next NYC parking sign. The bus stop zone ends at the next NYC parking sign.
If the one official bus stop sign has arrows pointing in both directions, then the bus stop zone goes in both directions until you reach another NYC parking sign or the end of the block.

[Editor's note: NYC buses are 40-45 feet in length]

A bus stop in NYC can cause some pain in the pocketbook. How many of you are old enough to remember the Hollies song about love at a bus stop? Enjoy the music.

Please share your experiences with NYC parking tickets for bus stop violations. It will help all of us.

Tags: bus stop violation

Comments

Am visiting New York. Got a ticket today for supposedly parking at a bus stop area. How do you deteremine the beginning and ending of a bus stop area to know if you are in violation or not?

Posted @ Wednesday, September 23, 2009 1:25 AM by Dennis Tirado

Dennis,

So sorry for missing your comment. Hopefully, better late than never.

The bus stop sign marks the beginning of a bus stop zone, regulates the portion of the block in the direction of the arrow, and ends at the next NYC parking sign.

A bus stop zone may extend the entire block in both directions.

Posted @ Monday, October 26, 2009 12:26 PM by Larry Berezin

The New York Driver’s Manual and Study Guide (Chapter 7) contains absolutely no information regarding bus stop parking guidelines (e.g. where it starts, where it ends, applicable laws, etc.)

http://www.nydmv.state.ny.us/dmanual/default.html

There is NO documentation anywhere explaning the do's and dont's of the law regarding this regulation.

Is it fair to assess a driver a $115 fine for a regulation that is not documented? I am from out of state visiting NY.

One day I parked there, no ticket. Locals did not know the law and commented they thought it was ok. Next day I park there, get a ticket. $115 is a tough way to learn a new law.

I feel this is a money making scam.

I parked 200+ away from the bus stop. There was a fire hydrant and a driveway in the "bus stop" lane. I have been driving for 35+ years and observe the traffic laws WHEN THEY ARE DOCUMENTED.

Larry Nerezin replied to me, but I am currently continuing to appeal the ticket. I was offered a $25 discount if I just paid it off by mail. Or, can accept an administrative judge to decide, but then would have to pay the fill $115 if they find against me.

Posted @ Monday, October 26, 2009 1:44 PM by Dennis Tirado

Dennis,

I hear you loud and clear; and you are not alone. You may wish to read this article from the NYT.
Link:
http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/06/12/complaint-box-no-standing/?apage=3

I receive many calls, letters and comments on Larry's Blog about the challenges you correctly raise regarding bus stop violations.

You may wish to check out NYC Traffic Rules, Title 19 Chapter 4-08(c)(3); and VC 19, which prohibit parking or standing in a bus stop zone.

You must consider these rules together with the rules covering parking signs to uncover the hidden meaning of how to determine the length of a bus stop zone. Generally, there will always be one sign, displaying a little bus and an arrow pointing in one or both directions. This designates the beginning of a bus stop zone. The arrow on a NYC parking sign indicates the portion of a block regulated by the rule on the parking sign:

In the direction of the arrow;
until the next parking sign, or the end of the block.

A bus stop sign, with an arrow pointing to the left means that the bus stop zone extends to the left of the sign until the next parking sign to the left, or the end of the block to the left. A NYC bus is about 45 feet long. A bus stop zone may be 45 feet or 465 feet. The distance you park from the sign is not relevant.

The bus stop zone extends from the bus stop sign, in the direction of the arrow until the next sign or the end of the block; however long the distance may be.

Good luck with your appeal Let us know how you make out

Posted @ Monday, October 26, 2009 3:08 PM by Larry Berezin

Thanks for the prompt reply. I read the information you sent me, there is no clear explanation of the bus lane parking violation law.

I am going to continue appealing this ticket - it is a hefty fine. And will escalate higher when the appropriate time comes.

What happens if I don't pay it? Just can't come visit New York again.... and spend my money elsewhere?

Posted @ Tuesday, October 27, 2009 8:05 AM by Dennis Tirado

Dennis,

Did you have any luck?

Posted @ Monday, November 09, 2009 5:11 PM by Dan

Larry,

I got stuck with a bus zone ticket. I took pictures and just looked them over. I understand the law about the arrow and the end of the zone marked by the next sign. But, I feel I may have an arguement...

My arguement if it is one, is that there is a pole that looks like it used to hold a sign but someone ripped it down. That sign would have marked the end of the bus zone and I would have been parked outside that zone. The area has several vandalized signs which I also have pictures of. Is there anything to this? The officer also didn't write down my VIN #. Does that mean anything?

Thanks,

Dan

Posted @ Thursday, November 12, 2009 7:32 AM by Dan

Dan,
Thanks for taking your valuable time to visit our website and share your parking ticket experience. I'll answer your second question, first. A missing VIN #, unfortunately, does not entitle you to a dismissal of your parking ticket.

Good thinking about a possible defense to your parking ticket. Generally, we raise the defense of a missing or defaced sign to fight a parking ticket issued for a violation of the rule displayed on the missing sign.

Parking ticket warriors can be pretty amazing. Imagine issuing a ticket based upon a rule contained on sign that is no longer attached to the pole. It's the old "empty pole violation."

In your case, your defense involves arguing that the missing sign would have designated the end of the bus zone, had it not be removed from the pole. Interesting, it may work. You may wish to attach a photograph of the sign that was on the pole, before it was "removed," along with your photographs.

Good luck.

Posted @ Thursday, November 12, 2009 8:55 AM by Larry Berezin

Larry, I received a ticket for parking in a bus stop. The bus stop sign starts in the middle of the block but has no clear designation of its end. I see that you have addressed this part of my description before, however. The bus stop sign has no arrows pointing in either direction, and the bus does not run between 10:42pm and 6:32am. I was parked on the corner by the crosswalk and received the ticket around 3:30am. Does this sound like I have a decent chance of thwarting this ticket?

Thanks,
Chaun

Posted @ Sunday, November 29, 2009 12:02 AM by Chaun

I appealed my stopping in a bus stop and got reduced to $90 from $150. I could have let it go to law judge but ran risk of paying in full. So I was extorted the $90.

Posted @ Tuesday, December 01, 2009 7:58 PM by sheila

Chaun,
Wow. You guys keep me young with all your excellent questions. We all know what arrows mean on a sign. But, as Chaun asks, what if there are no arrows?

I believe, but I'm not 100% sure, when a bus stop sign has no arrow, it probably extends in both directions until the next parking sign, or the end of the block.

Can any one of our visitors or friends shed some more light on this subject? Love to hear from you. My suggestion, absent someone coming to our rescue, is to apply for the reduction.

Good luck.

Posted @ Tuesday, December 01, 2009 9:12 PM by Larry Berezin

Hi Larry,

I just went online to pay a meter ticket and saw an outstanding ticket for a "no standing bus stop" violation..which is now up to $165 or something crazy. I not only never got this ticket, but I have never stopped in front of that bus stop. Maybe I was dropping someone off? Do I have any way of arguing this ticket?

Thanks so much.

Posted @ Wednesday, December 09, 2009 7:37 PM by michelle

I got a ticket for stopping in a bus stop. I asked the agent if I could drop off my daughter. She said no and I moved along. I never got the first ticket but got the second notice plus penalty. I did appeal with an affadavit from my daughter supporting my allegations. I only got a reduced amount and could chose an ALJ review. You either get found 100% innocent or pay full amount. Since I do SSA claims and know all about ALJ decisions I wasnt up for some arbitrary decision an ALJ pulls out of his you know what. I paid the $90 reduced fine and wrote extortion in the memo line. I also filed a Civilian Review Board Complaint and wrote to the mayor. This is an excellent source of funds for the city. Don't get crazy with fighting the beaucracy - it will never work. Just discharge your frustration by holding their feet to the fire. If you google about these meter maids, they had a law passed increasing the penalty for assaulting them. Tells you the level of frustration they create.

Posted @ Thursday, December 10, 2009 7:48 AM by shiela

This is the first time I have visited your site. I have read some interesting comments. I received a "No Standing Bus Stop" ticket and just got the letter back today. I have chosen to "contest the summons" I was a great distance from the bus stop sign. I was actually parked at the next sign which was designated street parking. It was pouring rain but I did take pictures of both signs and my vehicle before I drove off. I wanted to know the legal distance of the bus stop. Since that is not available. I will still use the information I received from your site and my photos to contest. I will let you know the outcome. Thanks

Posted @ Thursday, December 10, 2009 5:42 PM by MARIE

Sheila,
Thanks for taking your valuable time to visit our website. You insights resonate with us. You must continue to fight when you're right. Especially when you have the skill to engage your accuser; a little piece of paper.

Kudos for your gumption. Please let us know the outcome.

Posted @ Friday, December 11, 2009 6:11 PM by Larry Berezin

Marie,
You are very welcome. Thanks so much for sharing your experience. It will help us all.

There is no legal distance for a bus stop. A bus stop zone starts with the No Standing-Bus Stop sign and extends in the direction of the arrow until the next parking sign. You are required to park beyond the next sign to avoid a parking ticket.

So, if you parked in between the "No Standing-Bus Stop" sign and the next parking sign, you violated the rule. If not, and your photographs back you up, and your affidavit is in order, you should win.

I've written several blog posts on the subject. I hope the posts were helpful.

Good luck. I can't wait to hear the outcome.

Posted @ Friday, December 11, 2009 6:19 PM by Larry Berezin

i got ticketed for no standing in bus stop area. but i just went in to dominoes to pick-up my order and the bus sign was further up from my car. I didnot take any pictures, so how do i appeal not guilty???

Posted @ Monday, December 14, 2009 6:34 PM by trisha

Trisha,
Thank you for stopping by our website and posting some great questions.

VC 40: No Standing-Bus Stop. The defense to a parking ticket is you were stopped temporarily to drop off or pick up a passenger; and did not interfere with a bus entering or departing the bus stop zone. You can't run into dominoes to pick up your pizza.

Keep in mind that a bus stop zone is not measured by distance. It runs from the bus stop sign to the next parking sign; or the end of the block (in the direction of the arrow(s). A bus stop can extend for an entire NYC block.

Under your case history, you may wish to apply for a reduced fine.

Happy Holidays. Park safely!

Posted @ Tuesday, December 15, 2009 3:15 PM by Larry Berezin

Mickhaela,
I apologize for the delay in responding to your important question. There has been a lot of traffic on the bus stop post; and I overlooked your comment. Me bad!

Without more information, and taking a look at your ticket, I'm afraid it is difficult for me to give you an accurate response.

If you'd like to submit a form with your information, I'm happy to help.

Good luck.

Posted @ Thursday, December 17, 2009 10:10 AM by Larry Berezin

Hi Larry. A few months ago I got a ticket for parking in a bus stop zone in NY. Not being from NYC and not being able to locate any NYC driver's manual detailing the bus stop zone parking details, I decided to make an appeal. The undocumented "secret" of the length of the bus stop zone is a shame on NYC officials who prey on the unsuspecting.

Anyway, I received a reply that my appeal had been received, and a one time offer to reduce the fine by $25 to $90. I replied that I was not going to pay because I stil did not understand what I had done wrong, or how I could have ever known.

Three months later, I received a notice that my ticket has been dismissed,not on the merits of the case I presented, but because of an incorrect detail that had been noted on the ticket by the parking officer. The reviewer caught this error on his own and dismissed the ticket.

Law 238 reads "(b) If any information which is required to be inserted on a notice of violation is omitted from the notice of violation, misdescribed, or illegible, the violation shall be dismissed upon application of the person charged with the violation."

Might be a worthwhile option in some case, for your readers.

Posted @ Tuesday, January 12, 2010 4:07 PM by Dennis

Great tips, thank you! My car was 47 feet from the bus stop sign, and I was thinking on arguing that I was enough far away (it would be worth a $25 discount anyway). However, after reading all the entries, I realize that two details in my ticket are incorrect: the color is described as black but it's green, and the body type is described as 4DSD when it's a station wagon. Do you think the fine will be disqualified based on that?

Posted @ Monday, January 18, 2010 9:33 PM by Giovanni Ciriani

Giovanni,
The world loves a winner; and you are a winner! Before we get to the good stuff, don't forget a bus stop zone is not measured in feet. It starts from the bus stop sign and extends until the next parking sign, in the direction of the arrow. If no other parking signs on the block, the bus stop zone extends to the end of the block.

Now, the good news is body time is a required element. If omitted, misdescribed or illegible, you are entitled to a dismissal of your parking ticket upon application.

The world loves a winner and so does New York Parking Ticket.
Congratulations, Giovanni.

Posted @ Tuesday, January 19, 2010 1:25 PM by Larry Berezin

Dennis,
It was incredibly nice of you to share your great story with us. I have written numerous articles and replies to blog comments about omitted, misdescribed or illegible required elements. Your comment gives me another chance to remind our readers about the benefits of checking the front of your parking tickets for mistakes, before crushing, stomping, or crumpling up the ticket.

You are right about the bus stop violation rule. You may wish to read Giovanni's comment and my reply below. We try to publish articles on Larry's Blog that alert members of the driving public to rules and information not easily discoverable on the DOT or DOF web site. The information may be there; but sometimes is hidden behind the hot dog truck.

Thanks again for sharing your experience, which benefits all of us.

Posted @ Tuesday, January 19, 2010 1:34 PM by Larry Berezin

i got towed for parking in an "illegal spot"- apparently it was a bus spot, but there was no arrow stating "no parking" from there to the bus stop which was ahead of my car. doesn't there need to be a "no standing" sign with an arrow showing where a car can't park?

Posted @ Wednesday, March 03, 2010 5:12 PM by Rebecca Soper

Rebecca
I'm so sorry for your ticket and tow. Here is a link to an article I published that will answer your question. Even has a diagram.

http://www.newyorkparkingticket.com/Blog/bid/29041/How-to-Avoid-a-Parking-Ticket-for-Fire-Hydrant-Bus-Stop-VIolations

If you still have any questions after checking out the post, please feel free to ask.

Good luck.

Posted @ Wednesday, March 03, 2010 8:06 PM by Larry Berezin

Hi Larry:

I just got a for "No Standing Bus Stop", VC #19 last night. I read through your Blogs and find a lot of helpful information. thank you first!

Here is what happened:

1) I were picking up one friend and have to stop the car to call him back since I just missed his call and don't know his location. So it ends up I'm standing in bus stop zone since all street or meter parking is occupied. At that moment, no bus is entering or leaving bus zone.

2) A traffic agent stop his car in front of me. He scan my registration first and was writing a ticket. I told him I am calling my friend to pick him up. He told me here is not a talking zone. At the same time, my friend arrive and he saw it. Then he just hand me the ticket without a word.

Please tell me if the following a couple of things will help:

1) He mis-spell my last name, missing one letter as "Chan".

2) I do have AT&T cellular phone usage record to indicate a call on 10:29pm to my friend and he gave me ticket at 10:31pm.

Do I have a chance to be a winner?

Thank you!

Jack

Posted @ Friday, March 05, 2010 1:23 AM by Jack Chang

when an emergency vehicle is approaching we need to pull to the right...however my question can we pull right into a place marked "NO STANDING OR NO STOPPING OR FIRE HYDRANT OR DOUBLE PARKING" kind of situation. what should we do? should we break those traffic laws or should we keep driving until we find a safe place on right side?

Posted @ Wednesday, March 17, 2010 4:13 PM by green

Jack
I am sorry to say, your story is not a defense to a bus stop violation. Sorry. You are still a winner to all of your friends at New York Parking Ticket.

Misspelling your name is not grounds for a dismissal of your parking ticket.

I recommend you apply for a fine reduction. Thanks for taking your valuable time to share your parking experience. I am sure many members of the NYC driving public have made the same or similar mistake.

Good luck.

Posted @ Thursday, March 18, 2010 2:14 PM by Larry Berezin

Larry,

You mention that a bus stop continues until the "Next NYC parking sign." Does that include a "No Standing During Snow Emergency" sign? I was parked beyond the snow emergency sign, but before the next No Parking sign, which, btw pointed in the OPPOSITE direction -- you can imagine why I thought it was OK.

Thanks - Mike

Posted @ Sunday, March 21, 2010 1:15 PM by Mike

I received a bus stop citation. While I would have been within the imaginary bus zone, the bus stop sign did not say "no parking or standing." On top of that, DIRECTLY BEHIND/BESIDE the bus stop sign was a sign that said I could park there on the day and time when I was parked. I'm contesting because any reasonable person would look at both the signs together and see it as allowing you to park there because why else would you have a parking sign that said you could park there at that time? Do you have any advice?

Posted @ Tuesday, March 23, 2010 1:47 PM by CH

I posted initially on January 18, 2010 9:33 PM. I followed the tactic suggested by somebody else, trying to dismiss the fine because it contained incorrect info. The car was described as Sedan but it is a Station Wagon instead.

I just received the Decision and order from the department of finance. It says: "...This misdescription is considered harmless error and is not grounds for dismissal... Only a reasonable description is required."

So I'm almost ready to pay. However, I'm not giving up yet, After looking up the law for "Traffic Law Section 238 - Notice Of Violation", I found the following:

§ 238. Notice of violation. ...
2. A notice of violation shall be served ... together with the plate ... body type of said vehicle...
2-(b) If any information which is required to be inserted on a notice of violation is omitted from the notice of violation, misdescribed, or illegible, the violation shall be dismissed upon application of the person charged with the violation.

To cut to the chase, I did ask for dismissal, but I didn't quote the article number, and in my opinion the clerk in the finance department ignored the law. So shall I appeal? And how do I do it this time? I'm in CT 2 hours from the city so it would be cost effective only if I can do it by mail.

Posted @ Tuesday, March 23, 2010 8:09 PM by Giovanni Ciriani

Mike
I can imagine, Mike. No Standing Snow Emergency Sign in my opinion is a parking sign (it should have a DOT label at the base of the sign). That sign marks the end of a bus stop zone. If you parked beyond the sign, away from from bus stop sign, you did not violate the bus stop rule.

When you're right--FIGHT.
Please let me know how you make out.
Good luck, Mike

Posted @ Thursday, March 25, 2010 11:31 AM by Larry Berezin

CH
Verrrry interesting argument. I like it if the bus stop sign, absolutely, positively does not display, "no standing" on the sign.
(see the bus stop sign on our "guide to parking sign" web page).

You need to submit photographs of the all the signs, front and back of each sign, on the entire block; and argue that the two signs are conflicting/confusing.

Good luck!
Let us know how you make out.

Posted @ Thursday, March 25, 2010 12:02 PM by Larry Berezin

Thanks, Larry. I took a look at a photo of the sign, which I did mail in, but I failed to notice that the bus sign indeed had a single arrow in the direction of my car. However, the sign directly beside/behind it had arrows going both directions stating parking was okay except for Mon-Fri before 6pm (and I parked on a sunday). I would also note that there was no other parking sign (indicating an end to the bus zone) in the direction of the bus stop arrow and at most four cars could have parked there. What do you think? The bus stop trumps?

Posted @ Thursday, March 25, 2010 12:14 PM by CH

CH
I'd love to take a look at your photos. Looking forward to the outcome. A passing thought....If there is a sign to the left of the bus stop sign with an arrow pointing in the direction of the bus stop sign, it only regulates the space between the sign to the left and the bus stop sign.

Let's see the tale your photos tell.

Posted @ Thursday, March 25, 2010 3:42 PM by Larry Berezin

I don't have a photo on me, but hopefully this link to google maps will work.

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=312+bowery+new+york,+ny&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=49.444078,70.136719&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=312+Bowery,+New+York,+10012&ll=40.725225,-73.99214&spn=0,359.99893&t=h&z=20&layer=c&cbll=40.725117,-73.992177&panoid=o-4GwUzSRxH-Yqv_L0efcA&cbp=12,89.54,,1,-2.5

Posted @ Thursday, March 25, 2010 3:50 PM by CH

CH
Great view. Linked worked perfectly.

Technically, the "no parking" sign only regulates about 7 inches of parking space in the direction of the bus stop sign. It is a joke. Very confusing!
I really don't know how you or other members of the driving public are supposed to figure this one out.

A judge is permitted to dismiss a parking ticket because the signage is confusing or contradictory. The right judge will; all the judges SHOULD!

Let me know the outcome.
Immensely enjoyed our conversation.

Posted @ Thursday, March 25, 2010 4:01 PM by Larry Berezin

Thanks! I'll let you know what happens.

Posted @ Thursday, March 25, 2010 4:06 PM by CH

Hi I am from Jersey and parked in a so called bus stop zone in NYC between Houston st and greene street. The bus stop didnt have a sign to where it extends ,left or right. But I did give enough gap. I understand from all the comments and replies so far that I am eligible for a ticket. What I dont understand is There were cars parked under the sign to the right of the bus stop and they were not issues a ticket. But I was parked to the left of the bus stop with a gap and only I received a ticket. Why would I alone receive a ticket. I feel good for the others but I want to understand how I can also feel good for myself.

Posted @ Thursday, April 22, 2010 3:20 PM by Karthik

Karthik
I hear you, Karthik. It never feels good to be picked out from a crowd of wrongdoers and punished. Unfortunately, it happens countless number of times, every day in NYC.

I suggest you are a member of a huge, proud group of people who take the hit and pay the dime for your fellow members of the driving public.

There was probably a little, tiny arrow below the bus pointing in one or both directions. If not, the sign is considered to point in both directions.

Make sure you check the front of the ticket for mistakes. If a required element is omitted, misdescribed or illegible, you win upon application. If none, please be sure to apply for the reduced fine. It will be lowered from $115 to $90.

Posted @ Thursday, April 22, 2010 4:54 PM by Larry Berezin

I plead not guilty on a ticket I received for parking at a Bus-Stop-That-Once-Was, the signage was removed approx. 10 days before I parked there, the only thing left was the Shelter (which doesn't indicate a No Standing zone in NYC law), photos are attached here:

http://community.webshots.com/album/576472526XQNwus after losing the online hearing because I didn't include the photos, I appealed with the photos as well as copy of the MTA changed bus route showing that there is no bus stop, still the Not-So-Honorable judge decided to dismiss the ticket without giving any written reason, so the only next option would be to file and article 78 which starts out with a $200 base fee plus judge fees and what not (the ticket is only $115), so my money has been stolen and here you have another NYC/Dept. of Finance victim.

Thank You

Posted @ Wednesday, June 02, 2010 3:09 PM by J Rubin

Sorry should say not To dismiss the ticket

Posted @ Wednesday, June 02, 2010 3:10 PM by J Rubin

I got a parking ticket at 10:08p and schedule states that buses stop running at 8:34p. Do I have a valid argument that this is an "inactive" bus stop during the times buses are not operating? HELP!

Posted @ Sunday, June 06, 2010 12:03 AM by Milly

J,
I applaud your passion. Our mantra is When you're right-FIGHT, and present the proper proof, properly.

You were absolutely correct. You were issued an unjustified parking ticket. The problem is you fell into the "fight your parking ticket online trap." Never, ever under any circumstances dispute a parking ticket online. You can't win without proof. You cannot submit the proper proof, properly online.

With that said, when you appeal an adverse decision, you are not permitted to submit new evidence. Your must demonstrate the original hearing officer made a mistake of law or fact. The second bite of the apple is much less palatable than the first.

My recommendation is to learn from your mistake, like we all do. Next time, you'll get it right.
By the way, if you wish to retain a lawyer to file an Article 78 application, you can expect to incur legal fees of approximately $4,000.

Thanks for sharing your story. It means a lot to everyone.

Posted @ Sunday, June 06, 2010 6:42 PM by lawrence berezin

Milly,

Thanks for stopping by, and posing a very interesting question. My recommendation is to check the front of your parking ticket for defects. If you find a missing, misdescribed or illegible required element, you win upon application.

The warriors enforce the bus stop rule, regardless of the vagaries of the bus schedules. Unfortunately, the last bus running doesn't temporarily halt enforcement.

Great idea.
Thanks for sharing.

Posted @ Sunday, June 06, 2010 6:46 PM by lawrence berezin

Apparently the judges in the NYC parking are very partial. Even though the law clearly says that a ticket with mandatory description should be flawless, the judge in my case replied that the mistake on their part did not change the outcome. Either he/she is ignorant of the law, or they are allowed so much latitude, that it's useless to contest a ticket.

Posted @ Monday, June 07, 2010 5:45 AM by Giovanni Ciriani

Follow-up to my "snow emergency" sign plea from back in March: no go. Judge wrote: "A bus stop is not measured in footage, or yellow lines, but runs to end of block or next regulatory parking sign, exclusive of snow emergency signs, whichever happens sooner." Oh well.

Posted @ Monday, June 07, 2010 6:43 AM by Mike

Re: snow emergency.
Yes, but if the law states so, the snow sign doesn't count, and the judge is interpreting the law correctly.

In my case the judge didn't interpret the law correctly. I pointed out that the law was on my side, but nevertheless the judge threw it out.

Posted @ Monday, June 07, 2010 6:56 AM by Giovanni Ciriani

Mike
We all appreciate you returning with the outcome. We can all learn from your parking ticket experience.

Please stop by and share your opinions. Thanks!
(I know how you feel. Believe me, I've taken my lumps).

Posted @ Monday, June 07, 2010 7:42 PM by lawrence berezin

Giovanni
Thanks for stopping by and sharing your comment. We've handled a gazillion parking tickets over the years, and believe it or not, win most of the parking tickets we should win.

However, I never forget the parking tickets we lose, when we should have won. It makes me fight harder and smarter the next time. When you're right-FIGHT. Please, don't give up. If you do, the bad guys win.

Good luck.

Posted @ Monday, June 07, 2010 7:47 PM by lawrence berezin

hi every one thier is a scam going on and here is one of them i park my car in parking meter i paid the money. i go to the store for about 10 minutes i go to my car there is a ticket for $115dollars for no standing sign from 4pm-7pm this is crap they take my money and i get a ticket for being a good guy. this is legal robbery and thats not right.

Posted @ Monday, June 14, 2010 7:25 PM by JOHN

John
When you're right-FIGHT!
What's your next step?

Posted @ Monday, June 14, 2010 7:28 PM by Larry Berezin

i took pics of the sign i m trapped because the sign was there but an average person would not think this would happen to them im going to try to fight it by mail because I will lose money for work

Posted @ Monday, June 14, 2010 7:48 PM by John

John
Fighting by mail is fine. You may wish to consider sending your defense in the form of an affidavit, rather than a letter because the parking ticket is a sworn statement by the warrior. You're un-sworn letter will not be given the same weight.

If you want to rant and rage, please feel free to do so. If you want to win, tell a persuasive story and present a legal defense. The "average person" defense has no chance of working.

I'm happy to view your pix and make some suggestions.

Good luck.
Let us know how you do.

Posted @ Monday, June 14, 2010 7:56 PM by Larry Berezin

im going to try to fight it. i may not win. i took a pic of the meter and the sign together the sign those say no standing between the hrs of 4pm-7pm.but i feel its a trap because most people dont look up at the signs especially when you park at a meter you think your safe i learned today dont park at any meters

Posted @ Monday, June 14, 2010 7:56 PM by John

John
Good luck!

Posted @ Tuesday, June 15, 2010 8:56 AM by Larry Berezin

i woke up this morning and figure that i will write a letter and tell the truth that drove my daughter to her dance recidal pratice parked my car at a meter thinking that i was good to park and came back to the car thier was a ticket for $115 dollars you think this may work by just being true

Posted @ Tuesday, June 15, 2010 10:12 AM by John

John
You raise an excellent question. Let me answer it this way...Suppose you robbed a bank, I mean, you really robbed the bank. You're led to the courtroom in handcuffs and the judge asks you, how do you plead?

You say, NOT GUILTY.

The judge asks you what is your defense.

You say, I got dressed, put on a mask and went into the bank with a machine gun and took the money.

The judge will say. Thanks for being truthful. GUILTY, 30 years to life.

You get no points for honesty. You are expected to tell the truth. However, if the truth isn't a viable defense. GUILTY. There is no such thing as throwing yourself on the mercy of the parking court.

John, parking tickets are emotional events. There are a number of ways to beat a parking ticket. I respectfully suggest, not looking up at a parking sign isn't a defense. If the sign was hidden from view, now that's a different story.

My suggestion is to apply for the reduction. Let's live to fight another day.

Let me know what you decide.

Posted @ Tuesday, June 15, 2010 10:35 AM by Larry Berezin

thank you you make sense

Posted @ Tuesday, June 15, 2010 10:53 AM by John

just want to let you know that i have beat the parking ticket because i had pictures and my intentions was to pay for the spot.He felt that there was no need for me to get a $115 dollar ticket for a meter spot.i guess thier is a god

Posted @ Wednesday, June 16, 2010 10:59 AM by john

John
That is terrific
Congratulations.
Thanks for sharing your happy ending with us.

Posted @ Wednesday, June 16, 2010 11:16 AM by Larry Berezin

Hello, the expiration date on the summons i received for a meter violation is wrong. The expiration date of my car's registration is 9/11 and they put on the ticket 5/11. Is that enough for the ticket to be invalid? Let me know.

Posted @ Thursday, June 24, 2010 10:02 AM by Ari

Ari,
You are a WINNER! Expiration date is a required element. If inserted incorrectly, you are entitled to a dismissal of your parking ticket upon application.(assuming your vehicle is a NY State registered vehicle)

Simply send a letter pointing out the mistake, attach a copy of your vehicle registration, and light up a victory cigar.

Congratulations.

Posted @ Thursday, June 24, 2010 8:28 PM by lawrence berezin

Thanks larry but Hold on- before i get my hopes up would this still work if my car is registered in MD ?

Posted @ Thursday, June 24, 2010 8:49 PM by Ari

Ari,
Yes, indeed. It is my understanding that MD plates display the month and year of expiration. If so, attach your registration and a couple of pix of your plates showing they're attached to your car, and up close showing the month and year stickers on the plates.

Great follow up question. Please confirm my understanding about MD plates is correct. We've represented clients from MD. I love the State. I Used to live in Bethesda, on Democracy Blvd.

Posted @ Thursday, June 24, 2010 9:00 PM by lawrence berezin

You're right they do show on the plate the date of expiration but just to confirm all i need to send is a copy of registration and picture of plate. Thanks your the best !

Posted @ Thursday, June 24, 2010 9:29 PM by Ari

Hi,

Great blog. I just got towed for apparently parking in a bus stop that i swear you need binoculars to see. Is this legal? Why didn't I just receive a ticket?

Posted @ Thursday, June 24, 2010 11:49 PM by Mark D'Angelo

Ari
Yes. All you have to send with your defense letter asking for a dismissal because of an inaccurate expiration date is photos of your plate (close up and attached to your vehicle), and a copy of your vehicle registration.

Knock 'em dead.
Let us know the outcome!

Posted @ Friday, June 25, 2010 7:34 AM by Larry Berezin

Mark
Thanks for visiting our website and posing a great question about the rules of the towing game.

In the 1950's the NY State legislature declared all of NYC a tow away zone. This means that your car can be towed any time, any place, for any parking violation in NYC.

Many members of the driving public are not aware of this "game changer." So, technically they can tow your car. Ethically, I hate it.

Please check for mistakes on the front of your parking ticket. If a required element is omitted, misdescribed or illegible, you're entitled to a dismissal of your parking ticket and a refund of your towing charges, upon application.

If no mistakes, do you have a defense to the parking crime? Were you legitimately parked inside the bus stop zone. A bus stop zone begins at the bus stop sign and extends in the direction of the arrow(s) until; either, the next parking sign or the end of the block.

Or, were you stopped temporarily to discharge or pick up a passenger?

If none of the above, I suggest you apply for a fine reduction. Your fine will be reduced from $115 to $90. If you're not sure how to apply on-line, I've prepared a couple of power point presentations on Larry's Blog, under "application for fine reduction." It's easy once you know how.

Good luck!

Posted @ Friday, June 25, 2010 7:43 AM by Larry Berezin

I parked at a meter but part of the front end of the car encroached slightly beyond the pole with left arrow into a bus stop. I received two tickets. One for “No Standing” and the other for “Bus Stop”. Each is $115.00. I tried to fight it but lost. I paid the $230. Now I want to appeal. Any advice? Thanks.

Posted @ Friday, July 02, 2010 1:47 AM by Sim Shuden

Sim,
I'm perplexed?! I don't understand how you can receive these two violations. I'm happy to help but need to know more details.

Please tell me violation codes. I assume, VC 40 and VC 14? Off the top of an old, grey head, it sounds like you were charged with essentially the same offense; since a bus stop violation is a NO STANDING violation.

If you email me a copy of your defense letter, I'm happy to offer my comments. Please keep in mind you have 30 days from the date the judge made a decision to file your appeal.

Thanks.

Posted @ Wednesday, July 14, 2010 11:55 AM by lawrence berezin

Hi Larry,

I received a parking ticket for no standing in a bus zone. My car is officially "blue slate" in color (kind of a deep grayish blue). The parking ticket notes the color of my car as "BL"--does this stand for black? And if so, do you think I could appeal for them noting the color of my car incorrectly?

Thanks!

Lana

Posted @ Monday, July 26, 2010 3:34 PM by Lana

Lana,

Thanks for visiting our website and joining the conversation. I'm sorry to say, the color of you car is not a required element. The wrong color will not entitle you to a dismissal upon application.

If you have no substantive defense, and there are no other mistakes; you may wish to apply for a reduced fine.

Good luck.

Posted @ Monday, July 26, 2010 7:53 PM by Larry Berezin

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