Excessive Speeding Ticket Consequences in Mesa, Arizona
Excessive speeding, also known as criminal speeding, is a serious traffic offense in Mesa, Arizona, and throughout the state. Unlike a regular speeding ticket, excessive speeding is considered a criminal offense and carries more severe penalties. In this blog post, we will discuss the consequences of receiving an excessive speeding ticket in Mesa, Arizona.
Definition of Excessive Speeding in Arizona
Under Arizona law, excessive speeding, or criminal speeding, is defined as:
- Driving at a speed of 20 mph or more above the posted speed limit in a residential or business district.
- Driving at a speed of 35 mph or more when approaching a school crossing.
- Driving at a speed of 85 mph or more on any road or highway, regardless of the posted speed limit.
Penalties for Excessive Speeding in Mesa, Arizona
Receiving a ticket for excessive speeding can result in various penalties, including:
- Criminal Charges: Excessive speeding is a Class 3 misdemeanor in Arizona. A conviction can lead to a permanent criminal record, which may affect your employment opportunities and other aspects of your life.
- Fines: If you are found guilty of excessive speeding, you may be required to pay a fine, which can be several hundred dollars or more, depending on the specific circumstances of your case.
- Jail Time: As a Class 3 misdemeanor, excessive speeding can result in a jail sentence of up to 30 days. The actual jail time imposed will depend on factors such as your prior criminal and driving history, the circumstances of the offense, and the judge’s discretion.
- Driving Record Points: A conviction for excessive speeding will result in 3 points being added to your driving record. Accumulating too many points within a specific time frame can lead to additional penalties, such as license suspension or higher insurance premiums.
- License Suspension: In some cases, a judge may choose to suspend your driver’s license as part of the penalties for excessive speeding. The length of the suspension will depend on factors such as your driving history and the severity of the offense.
- Traffic School: You may be required to attend a defensive driving or traffic school course as part of the penalties for excessive speeding. Completing a traffic school course may help mitigate some of the negative consequences, such as points on your driving record or increased insurance premiums.
How a The Harding Firm Can Help
If you are facing an excessive speeding ticket, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced traffic attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and potentially reduce the penalties you face. A traffic attorney can:
- Analyze the details of your case and determine if there are any grounds for challenging the ticket.
- Represent you in court and present your case to the judge.
- Negotiate with the prosecution for reduced penalties, such as a lower fine or a reduced charge.
- Assist with the completion of any required traffic school courses or other conditions imposed by the court.
Excessive speeding tickets carry serious consequences in Mesa, Arizona, including fines, jail time, and a criminal record. If you are facing an excessive speeding ticket, it’s essential to seek the assistance of a knowledgeable traffic attorney. The Harding Firm specializes in helping clients with excessive speeding tickets and other traffic violation issues. Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you.
