VTL § 1251(d) — Interfered with Cycle Operator’s View or Control (Motorcycle)

The Benjamin Goldman Law Office represents riders and passengers cited under New York Vehicle & Traffic Law § 1251(d). This section applies when a passenger or item being carried interferes with the motorcycle operator’s view or control. Although commonly issued during routine stops, a conviction adds points and can carry escalating penalties on repeat offenses. Our firm handles motorcycle-related tickets throughout Long Island and across New York State.

We assist clients not only in Nassau and Suffolk County (e.g., Valley Stream, Hempstead, Central Islip, Riverhead) but anywhere in New York. If you were ticketed under § 1251(d), you can contest the charge and protect your record.

What § 1251(d) Prohibits

VTL § 1251 governs the operation of motorcycles. Subsection (d) targets situations where a passenger’s position, actions, or an object being carried obstructs the rider’s forward view, mirrors, or otherwise interferes with steering, braking, or balance. Examples include a passenger sitting too far forward and blocking the rider’s vision, clinging in a way that restricts steering input, or carrying articles in a manner that compromises control.

Penalties for VTL § 1251(d)

• Points: 2 points
• Base fine (first offense): $0–$150
• Second offense within 18 months: $0–$300; up to 45 days jail possible
• Third offense within 18 months: $0–$450; up to 90 days jail possible
• Mandatory surcharge: Typically $88 (other courts) or $93 (town/village courts)

Fines and surcharges are set by the court and can vary. Jail terms listed above are statutory maximums and are uncommon for a first offense.

Statute

The exact wording of the relevant sub-statute is:

§ 1251. Riding on motorcycles.

(d) No operator shall carry any person, nor shall any person ride, in a position that will interfere with the operation or control of the motorcycle or the view of the operator.

Defending a § 1251(d) Ticket

A Not Guilty plea requires the prosecution to prove the elements of § 1251(d). Useful defense angles can include: whether the vehicle was a motorcycle as defined by statute; whether any interference with view or control was actually observed; whether the passenger/load position was momentary or corrected; and whether the officer’s description supports this specific subsection versus another part of § 1251 (such as 1251(b) sidesaddle or 1251(c) carrying articles).

An attorney can evaluate the officer’s notes, clarify witness statements, and negotiate for a reduction to a no-point or lower-point disposition where appropriate. Our office routinely appears on motorcycle and traffic matters in Long Island courts and can handle the case so you minimize time in court.

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