WITH US
Exceeding Max Speed by 11-15 MPH
Logue Law Group is here to assist you with any concerns related to speeding citations in Somerset. Our experienced team, including an expert criminal lawyer, is prepared to help minimize or even prevent the challenges that can arise from these violations.
Speeding remains one of the most frequent traffic offenses in Somerset, leading to various complications. Accumulating too many speeding tickets can result in points on your driving record, increased insurance premiums, license suspensions, and hefty fines.
Facts About Speeding
It’s essential to understand that driving faster than the posted speed limit is illegal in Somerset. Even in areas without visible speed limit signs, drivers are expected to comply with the following guidelines:
- Expressways: Maximum allowable speed is 55 MPH.
- Non-residential streets: Maintain a speed limit of 35 MPH.
- Residential streets: Stay within a 25 MPH limit.
Speed measurements are conducted using various tools. To be charged with speeding, you typically need to exceed the speed limit by at least 6 MPH.
Exceeding the Maximum Speed by 11-15 MPH
If you are caught driving 11 to 15 MPH above the maximum speed limit, this will result in the addition of three points to your driving record. If this offense occurs in a work zone, you could face stiffer penalties, such as a 15-day license suspension.
Our skilled Somerset DUI attorneys are ready to assist you in challenging these penalties. They can help build a strong defense to reduce or dismiss charges altogether.
Tools Used to Measure Your Speed
Law enforcement in Somerset employs various methods to measure vehicle speed. Below, we detail some of the commonly used techniques:
Speed Matching with a Patrol Car
An officer follows your vehicle for at least 3/8 of a mile while using their speedometer to match your speed and determine if you are exceeding the limit.
Stopwatch Tools
Hand-held devices, similar to stopwatches, allow officers to measure your speed over a predetermined, measured distance. Sometimes, aircraft are used to track vehicles, and reports are relayed to officers on the ground.
VASCAR Devices
These tools are commonly found in manual speed traps. Although effective, their accuracy decreases over distances shorter than 500 feet. It is also worth noting that law enforcement cannot charge you for speeding in zones with speed limits of 55 MPH or lower unless you are driving 10 MPH or more over the limit while being measured with a VASCAR device.
Radar Guns
Unlike officers in every jurisdiction, only the Pennsylvania State Police in Somerset are authorized to use radar guns for speed monitoring. These devices emit radio waves that reflect off moving vehicles, enabling officers to determine their speed.
Automatic Speed Traps
Utilizing advanced technology, automatic speed traps eliminate human error. These traps involve transmitters set on either side of the road, which calculate vehicle speeds and immediately transmit results to an officer’s computer system.
Steps to Take if the Cops Pull You Over
Being stopped for speeding can be stressful, but how you handle the situation can make a big difference. Follow these guidelines to protect yourself:
- Stay Calm: Maintain a polite and respectful attitude toward the officer.
- Avoid Arguments: Do not debate the officer or raise your voice.
- Keep Safe: Turn off the car’s engine but remain seated inside your vehicle unless instructed otherwise.
If you receive a ticket for exceeding the maximum speed by 11-15 MPH, consult a Somerset criminal lawyer immediately. They can review the evidence, identify potential flaws, and provide effective legal representation.
Pennsylvania Traffic Violation Law
Logue Law Group provides legal services for traffic violations not only in Somerset but also in neighboring regions and states, including West Virginia and Ohio. Our team is available 24/7 to assist with your needs. You can reach us anytime at 844.PITT.DUI.
For in-depth details about Pennsylvania’s traffic laws, which cover violations like speeding, refer to the Pennsylvania Code under Title 75. It provides clear descriptions and definitions of various traffic offenses.
Why Choose Us?
The consequences of a speeding ticket can have long-term impacts, from higher insurance rates to suspended driving privileges. Having the right legal representation makes all the difference. A Somerset DUI attorney from Logue Law Group will:
- Challenge the evidence presented by law enforcement.
- Help you understand your rights under Pennsylvania law.
- Work to minimize penalties or dismiss charges altogether.
Don’t face these challenges alone. Contact our top-tier Somerset criminal lawyer today for professional guidance and a free consultation.