Introduction:
Speeding is one of the most common driving offenses in Maine. While it could be tempting to speed, particularly when running late or trying to get somewhere fast, it is important to consider that speeding may have serious consequences. In some cases, a speeding violation may 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 law enforcement agencies. Generally speaking, the maximum speed limit on residential streets is 25 miles each hour (mph). On highways and interstates, the maximum speed limit is 65 mph but may be lower according to road conditions. It is important to see that these speed limits are absolute—meaning that if you review them, you will undoubtedly be considered to be speeding regardless of how considerably 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 as much as 19 mph on the posted limit while criminal violations involve speeds 20 mph or higher above the posted limit. For both types of violations, first-time offenders face fines ranging from $50-$1000 and points being added to 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 had been associated with an incident or had any previous driving offenses), additional penalties may 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 may even face jail time.
Mitigating Factors
Should you receive 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 generally include proof that you had been unaware of your excessive speed at the time of your violation (e.g., unfamiliarity with area); evidence that mitigating circumstances were present such as for instance heavy traffic or poor weather conditions; proof significant financial hardship; good driving record; willingness to be involved in traffic school; and/or insufficient prior convictions/violations within past seven years.
Conclusion:
At the conclusion of the day, avoiding a criminal speeding conviction in Maine requires a variety of understanding road rules and limits as well as being mindful about how fast you are going all the time when behind the wheel. Should you get facing costs for excessive speeding however, there are numerous steps which could help lower your sentence including presenting mitigating evidence and benefiting from any available programs such as for instance traffic school or driver’s education courses provided by local courts or agencies. Ultimately though every situation is unique so it’s very important to consult by having an attorney who understands both traffic laws and your individual circumstances before making any decisions about how precisely best to proceed with any potential legal action against you because of excessive speeding charges in Maine.
