Legal Question in Traffic Law in New York

Re: learner permit holders liability

Please be reassured that, however upsetting this is now, when you get your senior license, this will barely be remembered. Its important, but only important in the immediate future, not your life.

I think your question is: because you were driving under the authority of an accompanying adult, you may not be responsible for the errors made. Is this correct?

And 2nd, how soon can this be cleaned up?

You are responsible for all driving decisions and actions made while you are behind the wheel. It stinks, but that is the law. On an aside point, the policeman could have charged the adult with a variety of crimes under the Penal Code. (The DA would not prosecute such charges, but that is another issue).

You are even responsible for the broken tail light!

But you can fight the charges and get a 'conditional discharge' (that would be a 'win').

Regarding speedy-trial, if you have responsibilities elsewhere for a period of time then you may explain this to the court and get an arraignment date in December or June. They will work with you on this point. But you must initiate the petition.

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