Getting a speeding ticket is an expensive proposition in New York. Fines for going over the speed limit can range from $45 for driving 10 miles over the speed limit to as much as $600 when going over 30 miles an hour above the limit. 

With fees ever escalating for New York drivers, one state lawmaker is proposing a solution. The increased costs are something Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara says needs to be addressed. 

"This bill is intended to restore transparency in the system when it comes to traffic violations," he said. 

Santabarbara this month introduced a proposal to limit the amount of surcharges and fees that can be added onto a speeding ticket in New York -- added cost he says many motorists are struggling to afford. Some surchages can start at a minimum $85 for a first-time violation. 

If approved, fees would be capped at 10% of the initial fine. Santabarbra pointed to concerns raised by his own constituents who have pointed to the increased surcharges over the last several years. Even a relatively minor speeding infraction can cost drivers big. 

"Over the years, these surcharges have progressively escalated more and more and more," he said. "Even for a minor offense, you're paying enormous fees." 

Some tickets can have hundreds of dollars in additional penalties and fees tacked onto the original speeding ticket, and often vary by locality. Still, the legislation also comes after traffic safety advocates this year sought to lower speed limits, including a measure to allow New York City to approve a 20 mph. The measure ultimately failed to pass.

Santabarbara's proposal comes as New York state is also considering raising Thruway tolls in a bid to generate more money for the highway system and strengthen infrastructure. Santabarbara has previously called for a freeze on the toll hike, and wants state lawmakers to have more say over when tolls are increased. 

"It seems like it's focused on revenue generation, rather than imposing fines and penalties that align with the penalty itself," he said. "It's one of those things among a long list of things that cost a lot of money just to keep a car on the road."