Introduction:
Speeding is one of the very common driving offenses in Maine. While it may be tempting to speed, especially when running late or looking to get somewhere fast, it is essential to remember that speeding can have serious consequences. In some instances, a speeding violation can lead to a criminal conviction and even jail time. So what are the risks associated with getting caught criminal defense attorney maine? Let’s take a look.
Maine’s Speed Limits
The speed limit on roads and highways through the entire state of Maine is posted and enforced by local law enforcement agencies. Generally, 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 essential to see that these speed limits are absolute—meaning that if you review them, you is going to be regarded as being speeding regardless of how even 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 what 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 forms of violations, first-time offenders face fines including $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 involved in an incident or had any previous driving offenses), additional penalties can 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 receive a speeding ticket in Maine, you can find certain mitigating factors that may help lessen your punishment or keep it from becoming a criminal offense altogether. These include proof that you’re unacquainted with your excessive speed during the time of one’s violation (e.g., unfamiliarity with area); evidence that mitigating circumstances were present such as heavy traffic or poor weather conditions; evidence of significant financial hardship; good driving record; willingness to be involved in traffic school; and/or not enough prior convictions/violations within past seven years.
Conclusion:
At the end of your day, avoiding a criminal speeding conviction in Maine requires a combination of understanding road rules and limits along with being mindful about how quickly you are going all the time when behind the wheel. If you do find yourself facing charges for excessive speeding however, there are several steps which could help lessen your sentence including presenting mitigating evidence and benefiting from any available programs such as traffic school or driver’s education courses provided by local courts or agencies. Ultimately though every situation is exclusive so it’s very important to consult with an attorney who understands both traffic laws and your individual circumstances before generally making any decisions about how precisely far better proceed with any potential legal action against you due to excessive speeding charges in Maine.
