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Unreported NYC vehicles, termed 'ghost cars,' observed to exhibit risky driving behavior and accrue unpaid traffic penalties, according to a recent study.

Illegally-tagged vehicles are most frequently spotted in the Bronx, with Brooklyn and Queens coming in a close second in their prevalence.

In a recent report, it's revealed that phantom vehicles in New York City are more prone to reckless...
In a recent report, it's revealed that phantom vehicles in New York City are more prone to reckless driving and have outstanding fines.

Unreported NYC vehicles, termed 'ghost cars,' observed to exhibit risky driving behavior and accrue unpaid traffic penalties, according to a recent study.

In a bid to address a persistent issue, the City Council has released a comprehensive report on the prevalence of ghost cars - vehicles with out-of-state license plates or no plates at all - in New York City. These ghost cars, as they are commonly referred to, have been estimated to cost the city over $100 million annually, according to a previous analysis by the city comptroller.

The report indicates that these ghost cars are more likely to have outstanding tolls and fines, making them harder for authorities to trace. Local and state officials have announced plans for increased enforcement against these drivers.

Councilmember Gale Brewer, representing the Upper West Side, has called for more targeted enforcement efforts against ghost cars. Brewer has proposed the establishment of more tow pounds to remove these vehicles from city streets and suggested the need for greater coordination among agencies to tackle ghost-car hotspots.

"Ghost cars" not only occupy limited parking space in New York City but also pose a safety risk. They are more likely to speed in school zones and block fire hydrants. The report suggests that these ghost cars make it difficult for authorities to enforce the law.

Brewer's proposals include a focus on areas where ghost cars are most prevalent. She believes that by increasing the number of tow pounds and improving coordination among agencies, the city can make significant strides in addressing this issue.

The authorities identified in the New York City Mayor's report responsible for stronger measures against vehicles without valid identification numbers or foreign plates are local enforcement agencies under the city's jurisdiction, most likely including the Department of Transportation and law enforcement units tasked with vehicle regulation and traffic enforcement.

As the city moves forward with its plans to combat ghost cars, residents can expect to see increased enforcement and a renewed focus on ensuring that all vehicles on the road are properly registered and adhere to traffic laws. This initiative is expected to not only reduce the financial burden of ghost cars on the city but also improve road safety and parking conditions for all New Yorkers.

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