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The Impact of a Criminal Speeding Conviction in Maine.

Introduction:

Speeding is one of the most common driving offenses in Maine. While it can be tempting to speed, especially when running late or looking to get somewhere fast, it is important to remember that speeding may have serious consequences. Sometimes, a speeding violation can result in a criminal conviction and even jail time. So what are the risks related to getting caught criminal speeding maine? Let’s have a look.

Maine’s Speed Limits

The speed limit on roads and highways through the state of Maine is posted and enforced by local police agencies. In general, the maximum speed limit on residential streets is 25 miles hourly (mph). On highways and interstates, the maximum speed limit is 65 mph but might be lower according to road conditions. It is very important to note why these speed limits are absolute—meaning that should you go over them, you will undoubtedly be regarded as being speeding it doesn’t matter how even faster you are getting than other vehicles on the road.

Consequences of Speeding Violations

Speeding violations are classified as either civil or criminal offenses, depending on how far above the posted speed limit you’re going. Civil violations include any speeds up to 19 mph on the posted limit while criminal violations involve speeds 20 mph or maybe more above the posted limit. For both kinds of violations, first-time offenders face fines ranging from $50-$1000 and points being added to their license (1-3 points for civil violations; 2-6 points for criminal convictions). Depending on your own driving record and other mitigating factors (such as whether you were associated with an accident or had any previous driving offenses), additional penalties could also apply such as for instance license suspension or revocation, mandatory driver’s education classes, community service hours, probation, etc. Additionally, if your violation was particularly egregious (e.g., exceeding 90 mph), you could even face jail time.
Mitigating Factors

If you do receive a speeding ticket in Maine, there are certain mitigating factors that may help lessen your punishment or keep it from becoming a criminal offense altogether. These include proof that you had been unaware of your excessive speed at the time of one’s violation (e.g., unfamiliarity with area); evidence that mitigating circumstances were present such as for instance heavy traffic or poor weather conditions; proof significant financial hardship; good driving record; willingness to participate in traffic school; and/or not enough prior convictions/violations within past seven years.

Conclusion:

At the conclusion of your day, avoiding a criminal speeding conviction in Maine requires a mix of understanding road rules and limits as well as being mindful about how quickly you are getting all the time when behind the wheel. If you do get facing costs for excessive speeding however, there are several steps which could help lessen your sentence including presenting mitigating evidence and taking advantage of any available programs such as for example traffic school or driver’s education courses offered by local courts or agencies. Ultimately though every situation is exclusive so it’s vital that you consult having an attorney who understands both traffic laws and your individual circumstances before making any decisions about how exactly better to proceed with any potential legal action against you due to excessive speeding charges in Maine.