Every state has different speed limits, but one thing’s for sure: Speeding can be dangerous and remains a contributing factor in 29% of all traffic fatalities in the United States. Driving over the speed limit is considered a form of aggressive driving behavior.
There’s More Than the Penalty of a Speeding Ticket
Most drivers figure a speeding ticket isn’t a big deal; pay it and go about your business, but there can be hidden costs associated with this traffic infraction. Most speeding tickets can generally vary from $50 to $350, depending on the state you’re driving in and the speed limit on the road. If you’re busted speeding on the interstate, the fine will be higher.
Once you’ve been cited for speeding, this information will be recorded and sent to your automobile insurance provider, and you will likely see a rise in your insurance rates. A speeding ticket can increase your insurance premium by 20% to 30% or more, and this rate rise can last for several years, hitting you in the wallet for several hundred dollars (maybe even thousands) over time.
Also, your age, city and how fast you were speeding will figure into your car insurance hike after a speeding ticket.
If you believe you were unfairly cited for speeding, working with a traffic lawyer can help you reduce fines and keep the infraction off your driving record. Saving you from points on your license and increases in insurance rates. If you do choose to fight the speeding ticket in court, a traffic lawyer and the court fees can add up, too.
A Speeding Ticket Can Mean More Headaches
The financial burden after getting a speeding ticket can also affect your job. For instance, maybe your position requires a clean driving record, such as being a chauffeur, a medical courier, a truck driver, a taxi driver, etc. Those in the transportation industry want responsible employees who are safe behind the wheel.
Multiple speeding tickets could affect your job, including a possible suspension or worse. You may have to reinstate your license, and these issues can take up time, limit you from earning a living, or you could even lose your employment.
You could also face jail time if your speed was excessive, or if you have prior traffic offenses on your driving record.
A Reckless Driving Charge Could Also Be Added
Excessive speeding can get you into deeper trouble if the police believe your behavior behind the wheel poses a substantial risk to others or the property of others. A reckless driving charge is generally considered a misdemeanor. However, a felony speeding violation can be charged if injury or death results or if the driver is fleeing from law enforcement.
As with misdemeanors, felony charges would be handled in criminal court.
A Traffic Lawyer Can Offer Sound, Legal Advice
No one wants to see a simple traffic ticket turn into a criminal offense, and these laws can be complicated and confusing to the driver. A traffic lawyer could be worth the small investment to help you avoid expensive traffic ticket fines, keep points off your driving record and maintain a clean record.