Fleeing or Eluding

Were you caught off guard by your cruising speed, or rushing to meet a schedule? Suddenly, those flashing lights from a patrol car remind you that you’re now facing a ticket for exceeding the maximum speed limit by 31 mph or more.

Speeding tickets remain a frequent hassle in Somerset. But the consequences often extend beyond the fines and points on your license. You could face escalated insurance premiums or even risk the suspension of your driver’s license. That’s where the Logue Law Group in Somerset comes in to help. Our team of highly skilled Somerset criminal lawyers can help relieve your worries, and in many cases, help you eliminate them entirely. Trust our expertise for the most comprehensive and reliable defense.

Key Facts About Speeding

Driving above the posted speed limits is strictly prohibited in Somerset and throughout Pennsylvania. On roads with no visible speed limit signs, adhere to the following default speeds unless otherwise specified:

• Expressways: 55 MPH
• Non-residential streets: 35 MPH
• Residential streets: 25 MPH

It’s important to note that citations for speeding typically occur when you’re driving at least 6 MPH over the limit. An exception to this is school zones, where even exceeding the posted limit by 1 MPH can result in a ticket.

Exceeding the Maximum Speed by 31 or More MPH

Receiving a ticket for driving more than 31 MPH over the speed limit is considered an excessive speeding violation in Somerset. This means you’ll be required to attend a mandatory hearing with PennDOT. Failing to attend this hearing could automatically lead to a 60-day license suspension.

At the PennDOT hearing, penalties may include a 15-day license suspension or being subjected to a driving road test. Additionally, five points will be assigned to your driving record, significantly impacting your standing. Thankfully, our team of dedicated Somerset DUI attorneys can guide you through the legal process, ensuring you receive the best defense possible.

How Police Measure Your Speed

Understanding how speed is measured can be crucial in building an effective defense. Here’s a look at the main methods used by law enforcement in Somerset for speed detection:

1. Pacing:

• An officer follows your car with their vehicle, matching your speed with their speedometer over a distance of at least 3/8 of a mile.

2. Manual Speed Trap:

• Officers use airplanes, VASCAR devices (Visual Average Speed Computer and Recorder), or similar tools to measure the time and distance your vehicle travels.
• Notably, VASCAR devices are often less accurate for distances under 500 feet, making their results potentially challengeable.
• Speeding violations using VASCAR devices cannot apply to 55 MPH or lower zones unless you exceed the speed limit by at least 10 MPH.

3. Radar Guns:

• Only Pennsylvania state troopers can use radar guns to identify speeding vehicles.

4. Automatic Speed Traps:

• Advanced technology uses transmitters installed on roadsides to detect the speed of passing cars. The calculated results are then relayed to police patrol cars.

Steps to Take When Pulled Over

If you’re pulled over for speeding in Somerset, it’s crucial to handle the situation calmly and respectfully. Follow these tips:

• Be polite and maintain a calm tone when interacting with the officer.
• Avoid engaging in arguments or displaying anger.
• Turn off your vehicle engine but remain seated inside the car.

Your behavior during this interaction may impact the officer’s perception and the outcome of your ticket. And if you’re detained, contact a Somerset DUI attorney immediately.

Traffic Ticket Assistance

If you’ve been cited for speeding 31 MPH or more over the limit, it’s critical to seek legal representation. Our experienced Somerset criminal lawyers specialize in challenging the evidence against you and devising the best possible defense strategy. With a trusted Somerset DUI attorney, you’ll have knowledgeable professionals on your side to minimize penalties and protect your driving record.

To fight back against severe speeding tickets and explore your legal options, contact 844.PITT.DUI the Logue Law Group today. Together, we will work toward achieving the most favorable resolution to your case.