Can You Get a Ticket for Driving Too Slowly in New York?

Most people worry about getting pulled over for speeding. But what about the opposite problem? Can you actually get a ticket for driving too slowly in New York? The short answer is yes, and it might surprise you how easy it is to find yourself on the wrong side of the law for being overly cautious.

We've all been stuck behind that one driver who seems to think the speed limit is more of a suggestion—and not in the usual way. They're crawling along at 35 mph in a 55 mph zone, creating a rolling roadblock that has everyone else grinding their teeth. Turns out, that driver might not just be annoying; they might be breaking the law.

Is Driving Too Slow Illegal in New York?

Yes, driving too slowly can be illegal in New York, though it's not as straightforward as exceeding the speed limit. The law doesn't set a specific minimum speed for most roads, but it does prohibit driving in a way that "impedes the normal and reasonable movement of traffic."

Under Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 1181, you can be ticketed for driving below a posted minimum speed limit where one exists. More commonly, drivers get cited under laws about impeding traffic flow. If you're driving significantly slower than the prevailing traffic speed without a valid reason, you could find yourself with a ticket.

The key phrase here is "without a valid reason." Bad weather, heavy traffic, or mechanical problems are generally acceptable excuses. But if you're puttering along at 40 mph on a clear day because you're nervous about driving, that's a different story.

Why is Driving Too Slow Against the Law in New York?

It might seem counterintuitive that being cautious could get you in trouble, but slow driving creates real safety hazards. When you're moving significantly slower than other traffic, you force faster-moving vehicles to change lanes, brake suddenly, or make risky overtaking manoeuvres.

Think about it: if everyone else is doing 60 mph and you're doing 45 mph, you're essentially a moving obstacle. Other drivers have to react to you, and that increases the risk of accidents. Studies show that vehicles moving much slower than the flow of traffic are involved in more crashes than those keeping pace.

New York's traffic laws recognise this reality. The goal isn't just to prevent speeding; it's to keep traffic moving smoothly and predictably. When everyone travels at roughly the same speed, the roads are safer for everyone.

Impeding Traffic in New York: Minimum Speeds, Lane Use, and Liability

The most common charge for driving too slowly is "impeding traffic." This typically falls under VTL 1181, which covers various speed-related violations. The exact charge depends on the circumstances, but the penalties are real.

For a first offence, you could face:

• A fine of up to $150

• A mandatory state surcharge of $88-$93

• Points on your licence (typically 2-3 points)

Some highways do have posted minimum speed limits, usually around 40 mph. Driving below these limits without justification will almost certainly result in a ticket. But even on roads without posted minimums, you can still be cited if your speed is deemed unreasonably slow for conditions.

Lane choice matters too. If you must drive slowly, stay in the right lane. Hogging the left lane while driving below the speed of traffic is particularly likely to attract police attention and could result in additional charges for improper lane use.

Ticket for Driving Too Slow: Penalties, Points, and What to Do Next

Getting a ticket for driving too slowly might feel embarrassing, but don't just pay it and move on. Like any traffic violation, it's worth exploring your options.

The points on your licence can add up quickly, especially if you have other violations. Insurance companies also take note of any moving violations, and your premiums could increase. For some drivers, particularly those with commercial licences, even a few points can have serious professional consequences.

A traffic lawyer in NYC can often negotiate a better outcome. They might be able to get the charge reduced to a non-moving violation, which means no points on your licence. In some cases, they can get the ticket dismissed entirely, especially if there were extenuating circumstances you can document.

Before you decide to just pay the fine, consider the long-term costs. The initial fine might be $150, but the insurance increases over several years could cost you much more.

At 5 Towns Traffic, we understand that not every driving mistake deserves lasting consequences. If you've been ticketed for driving too slowly, we can help you understand your options and work towards the best possible outcome. Contact us for an experienced speeding ticket lawyer in New York to help you protect your driving record and your wallet. Learn more about our traffic ticket lawyer services.