Exceeding Max Speed by 26-30 MPH

Picture this: It’s late at night, and the streets are empty. You’re in a hurry to get home, so you press down on the accelerator. Out of nowhere, flashing lights appear in your rearview mirror. A police officer pulls you over and hands you a ticket, stating you were driving 26 to 30 mph over the speed limit.

Speeding tickets are a common issue in Wheeling, and they can lead to significant problems. You could face points on your license, large fines, and even an increase in your insurance rates. In more severe situations, you might even have your driver’s license suspended. But there’s no need to panic. The Logue Law Group is here to assist you. Our team of experienced legal Wheeling DUI attorneys is dedicated to helping you minimize or completely avoid these penalties. With our knowledge and background, we represent the best in legal defense in the area.

Key Facts About Speeding

Let’s review some important information you should know about speeding. First, it’s illegal to drive over the speed limit in Wheeling. If you’re on a road without a posted speed limit sign, you should follow these general rules:

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

It’s also worth noting that different tools are used to measure a vehicle’s speed. Generally, you must be going at least 6 MPH over the speed limit to get a ticket. However, in a school zone, you could be cited for going just 1 MPH over the posted limit. For guidance, a Wheeling criminal lawyer can provide clarity on your specific situation.

Ramifications of Exceeding the Speed Limit by 26 to 30 MPH

Now, let’s explore the consequences of being caught driving 26 to 30 MPH over the legal speed limit. A conviction for this offense will add 5 points to your driving record. Furthermore, if this violation happens in a designated construction zone, you could be facing a 15-day suspension of your driver’s license. If you’re facing charges for this type of violation, it may be wise to consult with a Wheeling criminal lawyer to better understand your rights and possible defenses.

How Police Measure Your Vehicle’s Speed

Police officers have several methods at their disposal to determine how fast you are driving.

Following and Pacing

One common method is for an officer to follow your vehicle and match your speed, using their own speedometer as a gauge. To ensure an accurate reading, the officer must follow your car for at least 3/8 of a mile before they can legally pull you over. If you were also suspected of impaired driving during such a stop, a Wheeling DUI attorney can help assess whether proper procedures were followed.

Manual Speed Trap

This technique involves an officer using a manual device, like a stopwatch, to time your vehicle over a pre-measured stretch of road. Sometimes, this is done from the air with planes or helicopters, which then radio the information to an officer on the ground who conducts the traffic stop.

VASCAR Devices

For both aerial and ground-based manual speed traps, police often rely on VASCAR (Visual Average Speed Computer and Recorder) devices. These systems may not be entirely reliable, especially when used to measure distances under 500 feet. The law states that a VASCAR device can be used to issue a ticket if you are traveling 10 MPH or more over the limit in a zone of 55 MPH or less. Consulting a Wheeling DUI attorney can help you understand if this evidence is challengeable.

Radar Guns

Radar guns are another tool for measuring speed. It is crucial to understand that, in West Virginia, only state police are legally permitted to use radar devices to issue speeding tickets.

Automatic Speed Traps

These modern systems use technology to automatically measure speed. Transmitters are placed on both sides of the road to detect and record the speed of cars as they pass. This information is then instantly sent to a computer inside the officer’s vehicle. These automated systems are generally more accurate as they reduce the potential for human error.

What Should I Do If I Am Pulled Over?

• Always remain calm and be polite.
• Do not argue with the officer or become angry.
• Turn off your car’s engine but remain in your vehicle unless instructed otherwise.

Logue Law Group

If you have been ticketed for driving 26-30 mph over the speed limit, it’s wise to consult with a Wheeling criminal lawyer. A legal expert can help you review the evidence and build the most effective defense strategy for your case. Reach out to our skilled Traffic Ticket Lawyer at the Logue Law Group today.

The Logue Law Group is available 24/7 to provide legal assistance. You can contact us at 844.PITT.DUI or through our website. We proudly serve clients in Wheeling and the surrounding regions, as well as in Ohio and Pennsylvania.