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What are the penalties for speeding?

On Behalf of | Jul 28, 2017 | Misdemeanors |

 

Being found guilty of a traffic violation like speeding can lead to a variety of penalties including a fine, points on the driver’s license and even jail. Those who dismiss this as inconsequential can experience problems because points on a license will likely lead to higher insurance rates. If there is an accumulation of enough points, the driver’s license will be suspended. First, it is important to understand what the fines, penalties and points are for speeding.

For non-commercial drivers, if the vehicle is 10 mph above the speed limit, there can be a fine of between $90 and $150 with a jail sentence of up to 15 days. If it is more than 10 mph but less than 30 mph, the fine can be between $180 and $300 with up to 30 days in jail. If it is more than 30 mph over the speed limit, the fine will be between $360 and $600 and a potential jail sentence of up to 30 days. If it is deemed an “inappropriate speed” based on circumstances, the fine will be between $45 and $150 with up to 15 days in jail.

For people who are convicted of speeding more than once in 18 months, the fines increase. The driver’s license will be revoked if there are three convictions in 18 months. There can be varying fines for speeding on a restricted highway or in a school zone. If it is in a work zone, the fine will be doubled. The point system will add three points if the mph over the speed limit is not indicated and if the driver was between one and 10 mph over the limit. If it is 11 to 20 mph over the limit, it will be four points. Twenty-one to 30 mph will be six points. Thirty-one to 40 mph will be eight points. More than 40 mph will be 11 points. There will also be a state surcharge and a possible Driver Responsibility Assessment for those who have six or more points in an 18-month period.

Speeding is not a harmless activity that is to be ignored. Law enforcement takes it very seriously and drivers must know that it can have a negative financial and personal impact on their lives. It is possible to craft a defense against speeding tickets. Speaking to a lawyer who is experienced in defending clients for a wide variety of traffic violations is imperative.

Source: safeny.ny.gov, “Speeding & Speed Limits,” accessed on July 24, 2017

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