Understanding the difference is key. If you ever find yourself facing a criminal speeding charge, take it seriously. Know your rights, show up for court, and don’t hesitate to get legal help. Your future driving record—and maybe even your freedom—could depend on it.
We’ve all felt the temptation—running late, an open stretch of road, and the needle creeping past the speed limit. Most of the time, speeding results in a regular traffic ticket. It’s annoying, sure—but manageable. But what if it goes further? What if it turns into criminal speeding?
Let’s discuss something many drivers don’t fully understand: the difference between criminal speeding and a standard traffic ticket. These two violations might sound similar, but the consequences are drastically different. Knowing the key differences can help you avoid a major headache—and maybe even keep you out of court or jail.
What Is Regular Speeding?
Before diving into the serious stuff, let’s first define regular speeding. This is what most drivers encounter. It’s when you’re caught going over the speed limit but not by a margin that crosses into criminal territory.
For example:
- Driving 10 or 15 mph over the speed limit on the highway
- Rolling slightly above 25 mph in a school zone
- Speeding through a neighborhood with a posted limit of 35 mph
These are all infractions or civil traffic violations, not criminal offenses. You’ll usually receive a fine, points on your license, and possibly have to attend traffic school if it’s not your first offense.
Consequences of Regular Speeding
- Fines (typically between $50 and $300)
- Points added to your driving record
- Higher insurance rates
- Possible license suspension after repeated offenses
- Traffic school (sometimes mandatory, sometimes optional)
It’s not fun—but it’s not the end of the world. Now, let’s see how criminal speeding takes things to another level.
What Is Criminal Speeding?
Criminal speeding—sometimes called excessive speeding or reckless speeding—is a misdemeanor offense, and that changes everything.
This violation typically involves:
- Driving 20 mph or more over the posted limit in some states
- Driving 85 mph or more, regardless of the posted limit (common in Arizona)
- Speeding in a school zone or construction zone with workers present
- Engaging in a speed contest or race on public roads
When you reach this level of speed, you’re not just breaking traffic rules—you’re considered a threat to public safety. Law enforcement treats it as a crime.
Possible Criminal Speeding Scenarios
Let’s paint a few real-life pictures:
- You’re late for a meeting, cruising at 90 mph in a 65 mph zone. That could be criminal speeding.
- You floor it through a school zone while texting. That’s definitely criminal speeding.
- You decide to race a friend from a stoplight. Police catch it on camera. That’s a crime.
Sound intense? It is. Now let’s dive into the consequences.
Criminal Speeding Penalties: What’s at Stake?
Here’s where things get serious. Criminal speeding is not just a traffic ticket. It’s a Class 3 misdemeanor in many states and carries potential jail time.
Penalties May Include:
- Fines of up to $500 or more
- Up to 30 days in jail (in some jurisdictions)
- Probation
- License suspension
- Mandatory court appearances
- Permanent criminal record
- Points on your license, which can lead to revocation
- Increased insurance premiums
Let’s talk about that last one—insurance. After a criminal speeding conviction, your insurer may classify you as a high-risk driver. That could mean your premium doubles—or worse, you get dropped altogether.
And here’s the kicker: a criminal record sticks with you. It might show up during background checks for jobs, housing, or professional licenses.
Comparing the Two: A Quick Breakdown
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Why Do States Treat Criminal Speeding So Harshly?
You might wonder—why the leap from a fine to potential jail time just because of speed?
Let’s discuss the reasoning.
Criminal speeding is viewed as dangerously reckless behavior. Statistics show that excessive speed is a leading cause of fatal crashes, especially in pedestrian zones or during poor road conditions.
In other words, when you’re traveling 90 in a 60, you’re not just risking your life—you’re putting others in danger too. That’s why law enforcement draws a hard line.
Do You Always Get Arrested for Criminal Speeding?
Good question. The answer? Not always—but it’s possible.
Some officers will issue a citation and release you at the scene. Others might arrest you on the spot, especially if you’re:
- Being uncooperative
- Driving under the influence
- Racing or weaving through traffic
- Speeding in a school or construction zone
Even if you’re not arrested, you’ll likely be required to appear in court. Ignoring that court date? That’s a whole new set of legal problems.
Can You Fight a Criminal Speeding Charge?
Absolutely. Just because you’re charged doesn’t mean you’re automatically guilty. And this is where a traffic or criminal defense attorney can help.
Possible Defense Strategies:
- Speed was incorrect due to faulty radar or equipment
- Emergency situation (rushing to the hospital, for example)
- Mistaken identity (another vehicle mistaken for yours)
- Lack of proper signage or unclear speed limits
Sometimes charges can be reduced to a civil infraction, especially if it’s a first offense and no one was hurt. But you’ll need legal support to navigate that.
If you’re facing serious charges, we strongly recommend reaching out to trafficlawguys.com, a trusted Criminal speed defense lawyer in Arizona. Their experience and dedication have helped countless drivers reduce penalties and protect their records.
Should You Hire a Lawyer?
Let’s discuss this honestly: if you’re facing criminal speeding charges, yes, you should consider hiring a lawyer.
Why?
- You’ll be facing a judge, not just paying a ticket
- You might be able to reduce or dismiss charges
- A conviction could affect your job, license, or insurance
It’s worth the investment for the long-term protection of your record and reputation.
Tips to Avoid Criminal Speeding
Now that you know the risks, here’s how to avoid ending up in that situation:
1. Know Your State’s Laws Criminal speeding laws vary. In Arizona, going over 85 mph is enough. In other states, it’s 100 mph. Know the thresholds where you drive.
2. Use Cruise Control This helps on long drives or highways where it’s easy to let speed creep up unintentionally.
3. Watch for Speed Traps Highways, rural roads, and zones with sudden drops in speed limits are common traps. Stay alert and slow down early.
4. Don’t Drive Angry or in a Rush Speeding is often emotional. Give yourself enough time, and avoid aggressive driving.
Final Thoughts: Your Speed, Your Responsibility
Speeding might seem like a small mistake—but if you push it too far, it turns into a criminal offense that can follow you for years.
Let’s recap:
- Regular speeding is a civil ticket—costly, but manageable.
- Criminal speeding is a misdemeanor—serious, and potentially life-altering.
Understanding the difference is key. If you ever find yourself facing a criminal speeding charge, take it seriously. Know your rights, show up for court, and don’t hesitate to get legal help.
Your future driving record—and maybe even your freedom—could depend on it.
Have you or someone you know dealt with a criminal speeding ticket? Let’s discuss. Your story might help others understand just how real the consequences can be.
Join the conversation!