Most drivers have likely exceeded the speed limit at some point. Sometimes, they get away with it; other times, they don’t. When they do get caught, the common excuse is that they were in a hurry. These are, however, generally minor speeding cases.
In Arizona, a more severe offense is criminal speeding. If you are guilty of this offense, you can expect to face criminal rather than civil action.
What exactly is criminal speeding?
Criminal speeding isn’t just like any other speeding violation you might be familiar with. According to state law, you could face charges for criminal speeding if you:
- Go over 85 miles per hour in any circumstance
- Exceed the area’s speed limit by 20 miles per hour in a commercial or residential district
- Drive over 35 miles per hour in a school zone
Unlike civil or minor speeding cases, which usually result in a fine and points on your license, criminal speeding is a more serious violation. It involves excessive speeds and potentially reckless behavior, so the penalties are notably harsher.
A punishable crime with severe penalties
Criminal speeding is not just a minor traffic violation. It is a Class 3 misdemeanor, and it carries severe penalties. Upon conviction, you could face up to 30 days in jail, a fine of up to $500 and probation for up to five years. It could also result in points on your driving record, potentially leading to increased insurance rates.
A typical traffic offense for speeding might result in a minor fine, a slap on the wrist or, in some cases, just a warning. You might even manage to get away with it if you’re lucky. However, criminal speeding is a grave offense in Arizona. It’s not just about paying a fine and moving on. It carries significant penalties that can have long-lasting effects.
Take action on your case
Understanding the laws and consequences allows you to make informed decisions and avoid these severe penalties. However, if you’re already facing charges for criminal speeding, consider seeking the help of an attorney to know your possible defenses in criminal court.
Author Bio
Matthew L. Lopez
Matthew L. Lopez is the Managing Attorney and founder of Matthew Lopez Law, a criminal defense and DUI firm serving clients throughout Arizona. His track record of case dismissals and charge reductions has earned him honors, including a National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 nomination, a “Superb” 10/10 Avvo rating, and a Rising Star designation by Super Lawyers.
Matthew is a member of the National College for DUI Defense and holds active memberships with the Arizona Association for Criminal Justice and the Arizona Association for Justice. His firm handles criminal defense, DUI, drug charges, and traffic offenses, offering free consultations and affordable payment plans to make quality defense accessible to all Arizonans.
