Introduction:
Speeding is one of the very common driving offenses in Maine. While it may be tempting to speed, specially when running late or looking to get somewhere fast, it is important to remember that speeding may have serious consequences. In some cases, a speeding violation can lead to a criminal conviction and even jail time. So what’re the risks connected with getting caught portland maine criminal defense lawyers? 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 agencies. Generally speaking, the utmost speed limit on residential streets is 25 miles hourly (mph). On highways and interstates, the most speed limit is 65 mph but might be lower according to road conditions. It is very important to notice that these speed limits are absolute—meaning that if you go over them, you will be regarded as 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 how far above the posted speed limit you’re going. Civil violations include any speeds around 19 mph within the posted limit while criminal violations involve speeds 20 mph or older above the posted limit. For both kinds of violations, first-time offenders face fines which range 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 driving record and other mitigating factors (such as whether you’re involved with an incident or had any previous driving offenses), additional penalties could 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 choose 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 had been unaware of your excessive speed during the time of your violation (e.g., unfamiliarity with area); evidence that mitigating circumstances were present such as heavy traffic or poor weather conditions; proof of significant financial hardship; good driving record; willingness to participate 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 variety of understanding road rules and limits as well as being mindful about how quickly you are going at all times when behind the wheel. If you do find yourself facing prices for excessive speeding however, there are numerous steps that may help lessen your sentence including presenting mitigating evidence and taking advantage of any available programs such as 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 by having an attorney who understands both traffic laws and your individual circumstances prior to making any decisions about how exactly far better proceed with any potential legal action against you because of excessive speeding charges in Maine.