Introduction:
Speeding is one of the most common driving offenses in Maine. While it could be tempting to speed, especially when running late or trying to get somewhere fast, it is important to keep in mind 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 connected with getting caught maine dui laws? Let’s have 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. In general, the utmost speed limit on residential streets is 25 miles each hour (mph). On highways and interstates, the most speed limit is 65 mph but may be lower depending on road conditions. It is essential to see these speed limits are absolute—meaning that should you go over them, you is going to be regarded as being speeding it doesn’t matter how even more quickly you are going than other vehicles on the road.
Consequences of Speeding Violations
Speeding violations are classified as either civil or criminal offenses, depending how far above the posted speed limit you were going. Civil violations include any speeds up to 19 mph over 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 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 on your own driving record and other mitigating factors (such as whether you’re involved with 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 be given a speeding ticket in Maine, there are certain mitigating factors that could help lessen your punishment or keep it from being a criminal offense altogether. These generally include proof that you were 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 for instance heavy traffic or poor weather conditions; evidence 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 combination of understanding road rules and limits as well as being mindful about how fast you are going at all times 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 taking advantage of any available programs such as for example 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 by having an attorney who understands both traffic laws and your individual circumstances before generally making any decisions about how exactly better to proceed with any potential legal action against you due to excessive speeding charges in Maine.