Speeding Ticket License Suspensions (High Rate of Speed)
Getting pulled over for speeding is never fun.
Seeing those red and blue lights in your rearview mirror makes your stomach drop. When the officer approaches your window and asks “do you know how fast you were going?” you know you’re in trouble. But a simple speeding ticket is nothing compared to what can happen if you were really flying down the highway. In some cases, high rates of speed can lead to your license being suspended.
What is a high rate of speed?
That depends on where you were driving. In California, for example, traveling over 100 mph is considered a “speed contest” and will result in a suspension. In other states, going 15, 20 mph or more over the speed limit is enough to trigger a suspension. The faster you go, the more severe the penalties.
Why do states suspend licenses for excessive speeding?
Well, duh, because driving dangerously fast puts everyone on the road at risk. Studies show higher speeds increase both the likelihood and severity of crashes. By taking away driving privileges, the logic is that it’ll make speed demons change their lead-footed ways. Or at least keep them off the road for a while.
If you get popped for blazing down the interstate like Ricky Bobby, here’s an overview of what you can expect in terms of license suspension:
- Length of suspension – This varies by state, but generally ranges from 30 days to 1 year. The faster you were clocked going over the limit, the longer the suspension. Prior speeding tickets or other moving violations will also extend the duration.
- Suspension notice – The officer will take your license and give you a temporary permit. You’ll receive official notice from the DMV with details on the suspension length, requirements for reinstatement, and your court date.
- Fees – To get your license back after the suspension ends, you’ll have to pay a reinstatement fee that can be anywhere from $50 to $300+. Ouch!
- Insurance increases – Speeding tickets drive up insurance rates as it is. But a license suspension for excessive speed will really make your premiums spike, often for several years. Start saving your pennies.
- Possible jail time – In some cases, high speed infractions can be charged as misdemeanors and may come with up to 6 months in jail. Don’t drop the soap!
While a speed-related suspension royally sucks, it’s not the end of the world. Here are some tips for dealing with it:
- Consider a DMV hearing – You can request a DMV hearing to contest the suspension. If it’s your first offense or there are extenuating circumstances, you may be able to reduce the suspension term or overturn it completely.
- Ask for a restricted license – In many states, you can apply for a restricted license that allows you to drive to/from work, school, medical appointments, etc. during the suspension. Better than nothing!
- Use public transportation – Buses, trains, and rideshares can help fill the transportation gap while your license is suspended. You’ll just need to plan ahead and budget extra time.
- Plead your case to the judge – During your court hearing, be apologetic and emphasize that you’ve learned your lesson. The judge may take pity and go easier on the fines and fees.
- Take a defensive driving course – Completing an approved class shows the DMV you’re committed to safer driving. It can often reduce the suspension duration and keep points off your record.
- Review the suspension rules – Each state has different laws and procedures around speed-related suspensions. Do your homework so you know what to expect and the best ways to get your license back ASAP. Knowledge is power!
At the end of the day, the consequences for excessive speeding serve as a wakeup call to slow your roll. While it may seem excessive, these penalties exist for good reason – to get hazardous drivers off the road and hopefully encourage them to reform their go-fast ways.
So next time you’re tempted to be a leadfoot, remember – speed thrills but license suspensions kill. Ease up on the gas and arrive alive! Driving like a grandma for a while is way better than dealing with a suspended license.
https://www.shouselaw.com/ca/defense/vehicle-code/23109/
https://www.drivinglaws.org/resources/traffic-tickets/speed-violations/state-speeding-laws-and-fines
https://www.iihs.org/topics/speed#crash-severity
https://www.dmv.org/automotive-law/speeding-and-speeding-tickets.php
https://trafficschoolonline.com/blog/license-suspension