Speeding

Highly Experienced Broward County Traffic Ticket Lawyer Skillfully Handles All Types of Moving Violations

In Florida, speeding violations are one of the most common traffic tickets, and they carry more significant consequences than most drivers realize. If you’ve been cited for speeding, it’s important to understand what’s on the line and what you can do to protect your driving record and, more importantly, your driving privileges. At Russell D. Bernstein, P.A., our dedicated Broward County traffic ticket defense lawyer is immediately available get started working on your case. We have more than 27 years of hands-on experience keeping Florida drivers on the road and look forward to learning more about how we can do the same for you. 

Florida Speeding Laws

Florida has maximum speed limits in different areas. For example, the following limits apply generally throughout the state, even in the absence of a posted speed limit sign. 

• 30 mph in business or residential areas;
• 55 mph in rural highways; and
• 70 mph on interstate highways.

However, notwithstanding these limits, Florida law also prohibits driving at speeds “greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions.” This means that, under Florida Statutes § 316.183, law enforcement officers can issue speeding tickets even if you are driving under the posted speed limit, if the road, weather, or traffic conditions require a lower speed. 

Penalties for Speeding in Florida

The penalties for speeding in Florida vary based on how fast you were driving over the speed limit and where the violation occurred. Fines generally range from $100 to $500 but can escalate quickly for drivers caught going well above the posted limits. Speeding tickets can also become more costly if you were in a school zone, construction zone, or other specifically designated area. 

In addition to the financial penalties, speeding in school or construction zones carries steeper fines and possible additional sanctions.

The Florida Point System

Florida uses a point system to track traffic violations. When you receive a speeding ticket, points are added to your driving record. If you accumulate too many points in a short period, you could face serious repercussions, including the suspension of your driver’s license.

The points assigned for speeding violations are:

• 3 points for driving 15 mph or less over the speed limit;
• 4 points for driving more than 15 mph over the speed limit; and
• 6 points if speeding led to a crash.

The consequences of accumulating too many points on your license are severe, and include:

• 12 points in 12 months: License suspension for 30 days
• 18 points in 18 months: License suspension for 3 months
• 24 points in 36 months: License suspension for 1 year

This point system is why paying a speeding ticket without challenging it may have long-term consequences. Every point added to your record could push you closer to losing your driving privileges, and a single speeding ticket could lead to increased insurance premiums.

Why You Should Not Automatically Pay a Speeding Ticket

It’s easy to assume that paying a speeding ticket is the fastest and simplest solution. However, paying a ticket is essentially an admission of guilt, which automatically adds points to your driving record and can lead to increased fines for future violations. Many drivers don’t realize they have other options.

By fighting the ticket or negotiating a reduction, you may be able to avoid points altogether or reduce the severity of the penalties. At Russell D. Bernstein, P.A., our traffic ticket defense lawyer will review your case and determine whether there were procedural errors, faulty radar readings, or other defenses that could result in a dismissal or reduction of charges.

Potential Long-Term Consequences of Speeding Tickets

The consequences of a speeding ticket can be immediate in that you’ll have to pay a fine and may lose your license. However, the consequence can also extend well beyond fines and points. If you have too many speeding tickets, you could face the following:

• Increased auto insurance premiums;
• Disqualification from certain jobs that require a clean driving record; or
• A permanent criminal record if your speed was high enough to warrant a criminal charge.

For drivers holding a commercial driver’s license (CDL), the stakes are even higher. A speeding ticket could jeopardize your livelihood, as employers often require a spotless driving record.

How Russell D. Bernstein, P.A. Can Help

At Russell D. Bernstein, P.A., we understand that speeding tickets are more than a minor inconvenience. They can have lasting financial, legal, and professional consequences. As a Broward County traffic ticket defense lawyer with extensive experience in Florida’s traffic laws, Russell D. Bernstein can help you by:

• Evaluating your legal options;
• Negotiating for a reduced penalty or dismissal;
• Defending you in court, if necessary; and
• Protecting your driving record from added points and a potential license suspension.

Don’t Pay Your Ticket without Consulting with Our Broward County Traffic Ticket Lawyer First

If you’ve received a speeding ticket in Broward County, don’t simply pay the fine and accept the points on your license. Instead, consult with Russell D. Bernstein, P.A., to explore your legal options and potentially reduce or dismiss the charges. We have more than 27 years of experience helping clients on the brink of a license suspension and know what it takes to keep you on the road and out of hot water. Contact us today for a consultation and take the first step in defending your driving record. You can reach us by calling 954-401-3899.