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 important to consider that speeding may have serious consequences. In some instances, a speeding violation can result in a criminal conviction and even jail time. So what’re the risks associated with getting caught lawyers in portland 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 police force agencies. In general, the utmost speed limit on residential streets is 25 miles per hour (mph). On highways and interstates, the utmost 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 review them, you is likely to be regarded as being speeding it doesn’t matter 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 how far above the posted speed limit you were going. Civil violations include any speeds around 19 mph within 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 ranging from $50-$1000 and points being added to their license (1-3 points for civil violations; 2-6 points for criminal convictions). Depending on your own driving record and other mitigating factors (such as whether you were involved in an accident or had any previous driving offenses), additional penalties may also apply such as for example 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 choose receive a speeding ticket in Maine, you will find certain mitigating factors that could help lessen your punishment or keep it from learning to be a criminal offense altogether. These generally include proof that you were unaware of your excessive speed during the time of your 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 participate in traffic school; and/or insufficient prior convictions/violations within past seven years.
Conclusion:
At the end of the day, avoiding a criminal speeding conviction in Maine requires a variety of understanding road rules and limits along with being mindful about how fast you are getting at all times when behind the wheel. If you do find yourself facing charges for excessive speeding however, there are many steps which could help lessen your sentence including presenting mitigating evidence and taking advantage of 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 unique so it’s important to consult with an attorney who understands both traffic laws and your individual circumstances before generally making any decisions about how exactly best to proceed with any potential legal action against you because of excessive speeding charges in Maine.