Exceeding Max Speed by 31 or More MPH

Driving 31 MPH or more over the speed limit isn’t just a common mistake; it’s considered an excessive speeding offense in Indiana, PA. Whether it’s a miscalculated cruise or racing against time, this violation can bring about hefty penalties, including license suspension, increased insurance premiums, and long-term impacts on your driving record. Understanding your rights and the specific laws surrounding such offenses can make all the difference.

Speed Limits and Guidelines in Indiana, PA

Speeding laws in Pennsylvania are strict and aim to promote public safety. Adhering to the following rules can help you avoid violations, especially in areas where speed limits may not be clearly posted.

• Expressways: 55 MPH
• Non-Residential Streets: 35 MPH
• Residential Streets: 25 MPH

To enforce these limits, police officers use various speed measurement methods, and drivers can be pulled over if they’re caught driving at least 6 MPH over the limit. However, in school zones, even 1 MPH over can result in a ticket.

Excessive Speeding by 31 MPH or More

If you’re ticketed for driving 31 MPH or more over the speed limit, you’re facing more severe consequences. This offense often mandates a PennDOT hearing, where failing to attend results in an automatic 60-day license suspension.

Hearings and Penalties Include:

• A 15-day license suspension or mandatory driving road test imposed by the examiner.
• Five points added to your driving record.

It’s critical to have an experienced Indiana PA DUI attorney at your side to present mitigating factors and reduce the severity of penalties.

How Police Measure Speed in Pennsylvania

Law enforcement uses several techniques to determine if a vehicle is speeding. Understanding these methods can be helpful in challenging any errors in the case against you.

1. Pacing

An officer follows your vehicle, matching its speed to their patrol car’s speedometer. This requires them to trail you for at least 3/8 of a mile before taking action.

2. Manual Speed Traps

Manual speed traps involve measuring the distance your car covers over time. This data is often collected using devices such as VASCAR (Visual Average Speed Computer and Recorder). However, VASCAR has limitations, as it is often unreliable for distances under 500 feet.

3. Radar Guns

State troopers are the only officers authorized to use radar guns to detect speeding vehicles. Radar is considered one of the most accurate tools but is restricted to use by state police.

4. Automatic Speed Traps

Technology is making speed enforcement more efficient. Automatic speed traps with transmitters on either side of the road can measure vehicle speed and relay the data to patrol cars.

Legal Exceptions for Speed Measurements

When using a VASCAR device to measure speed, tickets are typically issued only if the driver exceeds the speed limit by 10 MPH or more in zones with a posted speed limit of 55 MPH or lower. And the best way to do that is to hire an Indiana PA criminal lawyer right away.

Steps to Follow if Pulled Over

Getting pulled over can be stressful, but your behavior during the interaction can impact the outcome. Follow these guidelines to stay composed and avoid worsening the situation. And the best way to do that is to hire an Indiana PA DUI attorney right away.

• Be polite and respectful: Treat the officer courteously to avoid escalating the situation.
• Remain in your vehicle: Turn off the ignition and avoid excessive movement inside the car.
• Stay calm: It’s essential not to argue or display anger, even if you believe the citation is unjust.

Consequences Beyond the Ticket

While fines and points on your driving record are the immediate outcomes, an excessive speeding ticket’s broader implications can be far-reaching.

• License Suspension: Losing your driving privileges can disrupt your daily life, work, and family commitments.
• Insurance Premium Hikes: Speeding offenses often result in substantial increases to your insurance rates.
• Long-Term Records: A mark on your driving record can impact your ability to secure favorable insurance terms or even employment in roles requiring a clean driving record.

Why You Need a Skilled Indiana PA Criminal Lawyer

Navigating the legal process for traffic violations can be complex. Consulting an experienced Indiana PA criminal lawyer can provide you with the guidance and defense needed to protect your driving privileges and minimize penalties.

How Our Team Can Help

• Gathering Evidence: We challenge any inaccuracies in speed measurement methods used by law enforcement.
• Mitigating Penalties: Our team highlights mitigating factors to lessen penalties, which could include community service or reduced fines.
• Representation at Hearings: With our help, you can present a strong case during the mandatory PennDOT hearing and possibly avoid a license suspension.

Know Your Rights and Take Action

If you’ve been cited for driving over 31 MPH above the speed limit in Indiana, PA, don’t face the situation alone. Our experienced Indiana PA DUI attorneys specialize in helping residents and professionals contest traffic violations and protect their rights.

Free Consultation with Indiana PA’s Leading Criminal Lawyers

The consequences of excessive speeding in Indiana, PA, don’t stop at a citation. Reducing fines, points, and avoiding a lengthy license suspension starts with the right legal support. To learn more, 844.PITT.DUI scheduled a free consultation with one of our skilled Indiana PA criminal lawyers today.

We proudly serve Indiana, PA, and surrounding areas. Trust Logue Law Group to handle your case with expertise and care.