Introduction:
Speeding is one of the most common driving offenses in Maine. While it may be tempting to speed, particularly when running late or hoping to get somewhere fast, it is essential to remember that speeding can have serious consequences. Sometimes, a speeding violation can result in a criminal conviction and even jail time. So what are the risks associated with getting caught criminal speeding maine? Let’s take a look.
Maine’s Speed Limits
The speed limit on roads and highways through the state of Maine is posted and enforced by local police agencies. Generally, the utmost speed limit on residential streets is 25 miles hourly (mph). On highways and interstates, the most speed limit is 65 mph but may be lower depending on road conditions. It is important to notice that these speed limits are absolute—meaning that if you go over them, you will undoubtedly be considered to be speeding regardless how faster you are going than other vehicles on the road.
Consequences of Speeding Violations
Speeding violations are classified as either civil or criminal offenses, depending on how far above the posted speed limit you had been going. Civil violations include any speeds around 19 mph over the posted limit while criminal violations involve speeds 20 mph or higher above the posted limit. For both kinds of violations, first-time offenders face fines which range from $50-$1000 and points being added with their license (1-3 points for civil violations; 2-6 points for criminal convictions). Depending in your driving record and other mitigating factors (such as whether you’re associated with an accident or had any previous driving offenses), additional penalties could also apply such as 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
If you do be given a speeding ticket in Maine, there are certain mitigating factors that will help lessen your punishment or keep it from being a criminal offense altogether. These include proof that you’re unacquainted with your excessive speed at the time of one’s violation (e.g., unfamiliarity with area); evidence that mitigating circumstances were present such as for instance heavy traffic or poor weather conditions; proof of significant financial hardship; good driving record; willingness to participate in traffic school; and/or lack of prior convictions/violations within past seven years.
Conclusion:
By the end of the day, avoiding a criminal speeding conviction in Maine requires a variety of understanding road rules and limits in addition to being mindful about how fast you are getting constantly when behind the wheel. If you do get facing costs for excessive speeding however, there are many steps which can help lower your sentence including presenting mitigating evidence and benefiting from any available programs such as for example traffic school or driver’s education courses offered by local courts or agencies. Ultimately though every situation is exclusive so it’s vital that you consult with an attorney who understands both traffic laws and your individual circumstances before making any decisions about how precisely better to proceed with any potential legal action against you due to excessive speeding charges in Maine.