Georgia Law Enforcement Issues a Vast Amount of Speeding Citations
Speeding is a common traffic violation that can have serious consequences. Indeed, every year police departments, sheriff’s departments and the Georgia State Police issue a vast number of speeding citations.
In the state of Georgia, it is important to understand the laws and regulations surrounding speeding because so many people receive citations.
Whether you're a resident or just passing through, knowledge of Georgia's speeding laws can help you avoid fines, penalties, hefty insurance rate hikes, and potentially even more severe consequences.
We are speeding lawyers and, in this blog post, we'll provide an overview of Georgia's speeding laws and other issues regarding speeding citations and tickets.
The Georgia Points System for Speeding
The state of Georgia uses a points system and for speeding:
- 15 to 18 mph over the speed limit: 2 points
- 19 to 23 mph over the speed limit: 3 points
- 24 to 33 mph over the speed limit: 4 points
- 34 mph or more over the speed limit: 6 points
There are some lesser-known facts and nuances that you should be aware of if you're dealing with a speeding violation in the Peach State. Understanding these can help you navigate the process more effectively:
- Nolo Contendere Plea: In Georgia, you have the option to enter a "nolo contendere" plea for certain traffic violations, including speeding. This means you neither admit nor contest the charges but accept the punishment. It can be a useful option if you want to avoid admitting guilt, as it doesn't add points to your driving record. But beware, before utilizing a “nolo contendere” plea you should always speak with a traffic lawyer to ensure it’s in your best interest.
- Points System: As discussed above, Georgia employs a points system for moving violations. Simply put, accumulating too many points on your driving record can lead to license suspension.The number of points you receive for a speeding violation depends on how fast you were driving over the limit. So, for example, while a 2 or 3 point ticket may not seem enormously important, it is important to remember that for a person over 21, an accumulation of 15 or more points in a 24 month period will lead to your license being suspended for six months.
- Speed Detection Devices: Georgia law enforcement officers use various methods to detect speeding, including radar, LIDAR (laser), and pacing (following a vehicle to determine its speed). Understanding the methods used can help if you decide to contest a ticket.
- "Necessity" Defense: In rare cases, you may be able to use a "necessity" defense, arguing that you had no other choice but to speed due to an emergency or a life-threatening situation. This is a challenging defense to prove but can be an option in specific situations.
- Reduced Speeding Charges: The goal of a traffic ticket attorney is to reduce the charge. We negotiate with the prosecutor to have your speeding charge reduced to a lesser offense, if at all possible, which typically carries lower fines and fewer points on your driving record.
- Super Speeder Law: Georgia's "Super Speeder" law imposes an additional fine for those driving significantly over the speed limit (85 mph or more on any road or 75 mph or more on a two-lane road). This is on top of any fines associated with the regular speeding violation.
- Impact on Insurance: Speeding tickets in Georgia can lead to increased auto insurance rates. It's essential to understand how a speeding violation can affect your premiums and take this into account when deciding how to handle the ticket.
- Defensive Driving Class: Completing a defensive driving course may be an option to reduce points on your driving record or fulfill court-ordered requirements.
- Ticket Dismissal: In some cases, a traffic ticket can be dismissed.
- Consult an Attorney: You should always consult with a traffic attorney who is well-versed in Georgia's traffic laws before doing anything reading your ticket. We can provide legal advice and representation to help you achieve the best possible outcome.
If you do receive a speeding ticket, understanding your rights and options is key to handling the situation effectively. Should you get a speeding ticket, we are traffic lawyers who will help you! Call us for a free consultation.