Traffic Law and Highway Safety Flashcards

What is a 'DWI' charge in New York compared to a 'DWAI' charge?

Answer: DWI (BAC ≥ 0.08%) is a misdemeanor; DWAI (BAC 0.05%–0.07%) is a traffic infraction

In New York, DWI requires a BAC of 0.08% or more and is at minimum a misdemeanor, while DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) requires a BAC of 0.05%–0.07% and is a traffic infraction.

What does 'implied consent' mean in New York traffic law?

Answer: By driving in New York, a driver consents to chemical testing if lawfully arrested for DWI

New York's implied consent law means that operating a motor vehicle on public roads implies consent to submit to a chemical test (breath, blood, urine) if lawfully arrested for DWI.

Which of the following is a primary cause of fatal crashes on New York highways according to NYSP data?

Answer: Speed and distracted driving

Excessive speed and distracted driving are consistently identified as leading contributing factors in fatal motor vehicle crashes across New York State.

What is the purpose of a Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST) being 'standardized'?

Answer: It follows a uniform validated protocol so results are reliable and legally defensible

NHTSA-standardized FSTs use validated, consistent procedures so that results are scientifically reliable and admissible as evidence in court.

Under New York VTL, failure to yield the right-of-way causing a fatal accident can result in what charge?

Answer: Criminally negligent homicide

When a traffic violation such as failure to yield results in a death, the driver may face a charge of criminally negligent homicide under the New York Penal Law.

What information is a motorist required to provide to a NYSP trooper during a traffic stop?

Answer: Driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance

New York law requires a motorist to produce a valid driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance when lawfully stopped by a trooper.