Introduction:
Speeding is one of the very most common driving offenses in Maine. While it may be tempting to speed, specially when running late or trying to get somewhere fast, it is very important to keep in mind that speeding might have serious consequences. Sometimes, a speeding violation can result in a criminal conviction and even jail time. So what are the risks related to getting caught criminal speeding maine? Let’s have a look.
Maine’s Speed Limits
The speed limit on roads and highways throughout the state of Maine is posted and enforced by local police force agencies. Generally speaking, the maximum speed limit on residential streets is 25 miles each hour (mph). On highways and interstates, the utmost speed limit is 65 mph but may be lower according to road conditions. It is important to notice these speed limits are absolute—meaning that if you review them, you will be regarded as being speeding regardless of how considerably faster you are getting than other vehicles on the road.
Consequences of Speeding Violations
Speeding violations are classified as either civil or criminal offenses, depending on what far above the posted speed limit you’re going. Civil violations include any speeds up to 19 mph over the posted limit while criminal violations involve speeds 20 mph or more above the posted limit. For both kinds of violations, first-time offenders face fines including $50-$1000 and points being added with their license (1-3 points for civil violations; 2-6 points for criminal convictions). Depending on your driving record and other mitigating factors (such as whether you were involved with an incident or had any previous driving offenses), additional penalties can also apply such as for instance license suspension or revocation, mandatory driver’s education classes, community service hours, probation, etc. Additionally, if your violation was particularly egregious (e.g., exceeding 90 mph), you might even face jail time.
Mitigating Factors
Should you get a speeding ticket in Maine, you will find certain mitigating factors that can help lessen your punishment or keep it from being a criminal offense altogether. These include proof that you’re unaware of your excessive speed during the time of one’s violation (e.g., unfamiliarity with area); evidence that mitigating circumstances were present such as for example heavy traffic or poor weather conditions; proof significant financial hardship; good driving record; willingness to take part in traffic school; and/or lack of prior convictions/violations within past seven years.
Conclusion:
At the conclusion of the afternoon, avoiding a criminal speeding conviction in Maine requires a combination of understanding road rules and limits along with being mindful about how fast you are getting at all times when behind the wheel. Should you find yourself facing costs for excessive speeding however, there are numerous steps which could help reduce your sentence including presenting mitigating evidence and benefiting from any available programs such as for instance traffic school or driver’s education courses offered by local courts or agencies. Ultimately though every situation is exclusive so it’s crucial that you consult with an attorney who understands both traffic laws and your individual circumstances before making any decisions about how exactly best to proceed with any potential legal action against you because of excessive speeding charges in Maine.