Exceeding the Speed Limit by 31 MPH

Were you caught off guard by how fast you were going, or perhaps rushing to get somewhere? Suddenly, you see flashing lights in your rearview mirror and a police officer is pulling you over. Now you’re facing a ticket for driving 31 mph or more over the speed limit.

Speeding tickets are a common frustration for drivers in Wheeling, but their consequences can be more serious than just a fine. You could be looking at points on your license, higher insurance rates, and even the loss of your driving privileges. This is where Logue Law Group can help. Our team of experienced lawyers is ready to help minimize these issues and potentially have them dismissed altogether. Trust in the skilled legal professionals at Logue Law, known throughout Wheeling and the surrounding areas.

Facts About Speeding in West Virginia

Driving faster than the posted speed limit is illegal in Wheeling. If you’re on a road where a speed limit isn’t posted, you should follow these general state guidelines:

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

Typically, to be ticketed for speeding, you must be driving at least 6 MPH over the limit. The exception is in a school zone, where going even 1 MPH over the posted speed can lead to a ticket. A knowledgeable Wheeling criminal lawyer can help you understand the specifics of your situation.

Exceeding the Maximum Speed by 31 MPH or More

Getting a ticket for driving 31 MPH or more over the speed limit is considered an excessive speeding violation. This situation requires a mandatory hearing with the Department of Transportation (DOT). If you do not attend this hearing, your license will be automatically suspended for 60 days.

At the DOT hearing, the examiner might impose either a 15-day license suspension or require you to take a driving road test. Additionally, five points will be added to your driving record. Having a skilled Wheeling DUI attorney present at the hearing can be crucial in navigating this process and reducing the severity of these penalties.

How Police Measure Your Speed

Police officers use several methods to determine if a driver is speeding.

• An officer can follow your vehicle and use their own speedometer to match your speed. They must follow you for a minimum of 3/8 of a mile before they can pull you over.
• Police sometimes use tools from the air, like airplanes, to watch and measure how far your car travels over a set distance. This information is then sent to officers on the ground. This method is often called a Manual Speed Trap.
• Manual speed traps frequently involve a VASCAR (Visual Average Speed Computer and Recorder) device. However, these machines have been shown to be less reliable for tracking distances under 500 feet. It is important to know that you cannot be charged for speeding in a 55 MPH zone or lower if a VASCAR device was used unless you were exceeding the limit by 10 MPH or more. A Wheeling DUI attorney can challenge the reliability of these devices.
• Radar guns are another common tool for measuring speed. In many jurisdictions, only state police are permitted to use radar to catch drivers who are speeding.
• Automatic speed traps use advanced technology to reduce human error. Transmitters are set up on both sides of the road to calculate the speed of vehicles as they pass. These readings are then sent directly to a computer inside the police officer’s patrol car.

Steps to Take if You Are Pulled Over

• Remain polite and respectful.
• Do not argue with the officer or show anger.
• Turn off your car’s ignition but stay inside your vehicle unless instructed otherwise.

Traffic Ticket Lawyer

If you have received a speeding ticket for going 31 MPH or more over the maximum speed limit, our legal team can assist you. Our dedicated lawyers will collaborate with you to examine the evidence and develop the most effective defense strategy for your case. Don’t wait— protect your driving record and your future. Call our experienced Wheeling criminal lawyer today at 844.PITT.DUI for a free consultation and immediate assistance.