(NY) Received a School bus camera ticket after the deadline. Was on the opposite side of a raised median. Worth fighting? (Video included)
Location: New York (Long island / Queens border).
Car: Black Tesla Model Y (Next to second city bus), opposite side of road.
I recently received a School Bus Safety Program Notice of Liability from the Town of Hempstead/Nassau County, and I'm trying to figure out whether it's worth contesting.
Here are the facts:
- Location: Jericho Turnpike/Jamaica Ave & 245th St (Bellerose)
- Violation date: April 29, 2026
- Fine: $250
- Notice due date: June 18, 2026
- Today: July 3, 2026
The issue is that I didn't receive the notice until after the June 18 deadline, so I couldn't respond in time.
As for the alleged violation:
- I was traveling in the opposite direction of the school bus.
- There is a raised physical median separating the two directions of travel at this intersection.
- I was stopped at a red light when the school bus extended its stop arm.
- When my light turned green, I proceeded through the intersection.
- At least two other cars and an City bus also continued through with me.
I've uploaded the video.
My questions are:
- Has anyone successfully challenged one of these tickets because of the roadway layout or raised median?
- Has anyone gotten a case reopened after receiving the notice after the response deadline?
- Is there any point in contesting this, or should I expect to pay it?
I'm not looking to avoid responsibility if I was actually required to stop. I just want to understand whether the raised median matters under New York law and whether I still have any options since I didn't receive the notice until after the due date.
Thanks in advance for any advice or similar experiences.