One of the most common interactions many people have with the law is through speeding violations, or speeding tickets. However, did you know that there is more than one kind of speeding violation? Read on to learn about the different kinds of speeding violations, and the possible penalties that might go along with them.
Different Kinds of Speeding Violations
Driving above the posted speed limit
The first kind of traffic ticket you may receive is one for driving faster than the posted speed limit. North Carolina has an absolute speed limit law – this means even if you are going just one mile an hour above the posted speed limit, you can be found guilty of the violation.
Driving below the posted speed limit
It is also possible to receive a speeding ticket for driving too slowly. The first way in which this can happen is if you are driving on a highway in a slow enough way that it negatively impacts the normal flow of traffic. The second way this can happen is on the interstate or highway, if you are driving 40 mph or less where the limit is 55 mph, OR where you are driving 45 mph or less where the limit is 60 mph or higher.
Speeding in a work or school zone
Speeding in a work zone is like many other speeding violations, but it comes with an automatic fine of $250 upon conviction. On the other hand, speeding in a school zone is often much more serious than a regular speeding violation. It carries with it the same $250 fine as a work zone violation, but additionally will add points to your insurance.
Speed competition
A speed competition is another term for what many people would refer to as a street or drag race. Charges for this are classified by whether or not the race was prearranged or spontaneous. Both of these classifications fall within the misdemeanor category.
Reckless Driving
You may be charged with reckless driving for a number of reasons. One of these could simply be if you are in an area that has a speed limit of 55 mph or higher, AND you are going 15 mph or more over that limit. You may also be charged with reckless driving for driving in a careless manner that indicates a disregard for the safety of others. A reckless driving charge can be issued in addition to a speeding ticket.
Possible Penalties
The kind of penalty you may receive for a speeding violation can depend on your location, court system, and the particular offense involved. Possible penalties include:
Fines – these can range from as low as $10 to as high as $250 or more
Points added to your driver’s license
Points added to your insurance (which can in turn increase the cost of your insurance)
Court costs ranging from $200-$250, approximately
Having your driver’s license suspended
A jail sentence
A permanent criminal record
What should I do if I receive a speeding ticket?
If you have received a speeding ticket in North Carolina, reach out to Smith Dominguez and schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys. We will be happy to help!
Call us at (919) 390-3521 or send us a text at (833) 450-2121
Schedule a consultation directly, here: https://calendly.com/d/ck9t-td3-mz3/traffic-ticket-consultation
About the Author
Gabrielle Sigmon is currently a law student at the University of North Carolina School of Law. Prior to law school, Gabrielle graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She joined Smith Dominguez, PLLC as a summer law clerk in May 2024.
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