In Arizona, there’s a big difference between speeding and criminal speeding. Criminal speeding is not simply going five miles per hour more than the posted speed limit on a 5-lane highway. Rather, criminal speeding is the type of aggressive and excessive speeding in zones that are particularly dangerous.
Not surprisingly, criminal speeding carries with it heftier fines and punishments. Criminal speeding charges are on the rise in Holbrook and Seligman, and it’s important for residents to understand why these charges are on the rise and what they can do if they are charged with criminal speeding.
Criminal speeding charges in Holbrook and Seligman
Across Arizona, officials have noticed an increasing number of criminal speeding charges. According to ABC 15, these facts and figures highlight the growing issue in the state:
- Criminal speeding citations have increased by 10 percent in the last two years.
- In 2016, almost 17,000 criminal speeding citations were issued in Arizona.
The increasing number of citations for criminal speeding in Arizona can be attributed to several different factors. First and foremost, state officials are cracking down on those who are choosing to drive over the speed limit. They have noticed a correlation between the number of people speeding and an increase in serious and fatal car accidents. In addition, more people are driving while distracted and are often in a hurry. As an increasing number of drivers are resorting to speeding in order to get where they need to be and state officials are becoming more aware of the issue, it’s anticipated that criminal speeding citations will continue to rise in the state.
The increase in criminal speeding charges is not just a statewide trend, but a local trend as well. Law enforcement officials in Holbrook and Seligman also have found that criminal speeding is becoming more common, and they are cracking down on offenders.
Do some communities have different definitions and standards?
Many communities in Arizona are developing zero tolerance policies for criminal speeding, including Seligman and Holbrook. Residents are beginning to recognize that they are not going to get away with criminal speeding, and it’s important that they understand what the definition of criminal speeding is in Arizona:
- Anyone who drives more than 35 miles per hour in a school zone.
- Anyone who exceeds the speed limit in a residential or business district by more than 20 miles per hour.
- Anyone who exceeds speeds of 85 miles per hour.
Criminal speeding charges carry with them more significant consequences than a typical speeding ticket. While most people who receive a typical speeding ticket are required to pay a fine, those who receive a criminal speeding charge may be convicted of a class 3 misdemeanor. Those who are convicted of a class 3 misdemeanor in the state may face:
- Up to 30 days in jail.
- Fines of $500 or more.
- Probation that lasts for as long as one year.
- Up to 3 points applied to the driver’s license.
Many of these consequences will result in an immediate increase in car insurance costs, and this conviction may become a permanent criminal conviction. The penalties increase significantly if an additional issue results from the criminal speeding, such as a pedestrian industry or a car accident that injures or kills an individual. Noting that the charge can lead to severe and lasting consequences, it’s imperative that anyone in Holbrook or Seligman who has been charged with criminal speeding partners with a qualified criminal defense attorney for their case.
What should you do if you are charged with criminal speeding in Holbrook or Seligman?
Many people in Holbrook and Seligman who have been charged with criminal speeding may initially feel like they can or should represent themselves. While it is certainly an option, it is not one that is recommended by the most qualified criminal defense attorneys. This is more than just a simple speeding ticket. A criminal speeding charge can carry with it significant and lasting consequences that can impact a person’s quality of life. The best thing to do is to contact a criminal defense attorney as quickly as possible.
As the authorities continue to crack down on criminal speeding, Holbrook and Seligman residents should stay vigilant and follow the posted speed limits whenever possible. However, in the event that you are charged with criminal speeding in Seligman or Holbrook, you will want to contact a qualified criminal defense attorney immediately. The right criminal defense attorney can collect the evidence necessary to defend you and advocate for you.
For more information on criminal speeding in Holbrook and Seligman, contact our law firm today to set up your consultation appointment.
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.
