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How long do you stop at a stop sign?

I’m 24 years old, but I just got my license a few weeks ago after living in New York City most of my life. While I passed the written exam, I can’t remember—what does the law say about how long you need to stop at stop signs?

avatar
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Despite decades of driver’s ed teachers telling you that you need to stop for several seconds at a stop sign, no state has a law that dictates a definitive stopping time.
However, you should apply a three-second rule to err on the side of caution and ensure you come to a complete stop. Coming to a complete stop is the most important factor, as it gives you time to assess traffic and let pedestrians cross the street.
If you roll the stop sign or don’t come to a complete stop, you risk getting a
citation
. This ticket can result in fines, points, on your license, and even an increase in your car insurance rates.
Hopefully, you adhere to the three-second rule and don’t roll any stop signs. But if you do and you’re ticketed, you may see a rise in your car insurance rates. That’s when
Jerry
can help.
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