April 2006 DOT HS 810 572

U.S. Department of Transportation • National Highway Traffic Safety Administration • Washington, DC 20590

Summary of State Speed Laws

Ninth Edition

Current as of January 1, 2006
This publication is distributed by the U.S. Department of Transportation, National 

Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in the interest of information exchange. The 

opinions, findings, and conclusions expressed in this publication are those of the 

author(s) and not necessarily those of the Department of Transportation or the National 

Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The United States Government assumes no 

liability for its contents or use thereof. If trade or manufacturers' names or products 

are mentioned, it is because they are considered essential to the object of the 

publication and should not be construed as an endorsement. The United States 

Government does not endorse products or manufacturers.
i SPEED 2005 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Introduction .......................................................iii 

Alabama .............................................................. 1 

Alaska .................................................................. 5 

Arizona ................................................................ 9 

Arkansas............................................................ 15 

California........................................................... 21 

Colorado............................................................ 30 

Connecticut ....................................................... 35 

Delaware ............................................................39 

District of Columbia ........................................ 45 

Florida................................................................ 49 

Georgia .............................................................. 55 

Hawaii ............................................................... 61 

Idaho .................................................................. 66 

Illinois ................................................................ 71 

Indiana............................................................... 78 

Iowa.................................................................... 84 

Kansas................................................................ 90 

Kentucky ........................................................... 95 

Louisiana ........................................................... 99 

Maine ............................................................... 105 

Maryland......................................................... 111 

Massachusetts................................................. 117 

Michigan.......................................................... 122 

Minnesota........................................................ 129 

Mississippi ...................................................... 135 

Missouri ...........................................................139 

Montana...........................................................144 

Nebraska..........................................................151 

Nevada.............................................................158 

New Hampshire .............................................164 

New Jersey.......................................................169 

New Mexico ....................................................176 

New York.........................................................180 

North Carolina................................................187 

North Dakota ..................................................194 

Ohio ..................................................................201 

Oklahoma ........................................................207 

Oregon .............................................................213 

Pennsylvania ...................................................219 

Rhode Island ...................................................224 

South Carolina ................................................230 

South Dakota...................................................235 

Tennessee.........................................................240 

Texas.................................................................245 

Utah ..................................................................251 

Vermont ...........................................................256 

Virginia ............................................................261 

Washington .....................................................269 

West Virginia ..................................................275 

Wisconsin.........................................................281 

Wyoming .........................................................288 

Uniform Vehicle Code (UVC) ..........................292
SPEED 2005 ii

 
iii SPEED 2005 

INTRODUCTION 

PURPOSE 

This summary reports ONLY the status of State 

statutes or regulations that are concerned with either 

speed limit or speed-related violations. Local laws 

are not reported. Unless otherwise indicated, the 

status of the State laws or regulations reported is 

January 1, 2006. 

ORGANIZATION 

The summary is divided into two areas: (1) 

Introduction; (2) a State-by-State-Analysis. The 

State-by-State Analysis is organized by State and 

then by specific legal topics. The State-by-State 

Analysis includes code and case law citations; these 

should help individuals conducting additional 

research in this area of the law. The State-by-State 

Analysis can be used to facilitate the comparison of 

State laws in the subject areas. 

The Appendix, using the State-by-State analysis 

format, gives the Uniform Vehicle Code’s 

provisions on speed limit and speed-related 

offenses. 

EXPLANATIONS 

Basic Speed Rule: The Basic Speed Rule requires 

vehicle operators to drive at a speed that is 

reasonable and prudent. As a corollary to this rule, 

State laws usually provide that "every person shall 

drive at a safe and appropriate speed when 

approaching and crossing an intersection or railroad 

grade crossing, when approaching and going around 

a curve, when approaching a hill crest, when 

traveling upon any narrow or winding roadway, and 

when special hazards exist with respect to 

pedestrians or other traffic or by reason of weather 

or highway conditions." See Uniform Vehicle 

Code §11-801. 

Minimum Speed Rule: The Minimum Speed Rule 

prohibits a person from operating a motor vehicle at 

such a slow speed as to impede the normal and 

reasonable movement of traffic. However, in order 

to avoid a possible conflict with the basic speed 

rule, the law normally provides that a slow speed is 

permissible when "reduced speed is necessary for 

safe operation or in compliance with law." See 

Uniform Vehicle Code §11-805(a). 

Racing on the Highway: "Racing on the highway" 

is usually defined as driving "any vehicle in any 

race, speed competition or contest, drag race or 

acceleration contest, test of physical endurance, 

exhibition of speed or acceleration, or for the 

purpose of making a speed record." See Uniform 

Vehicle Code §11-809(a). 

Drag Racing: Either as part of the offense of 

highway racing or as a separate statutory crime, the 

offense of "drag racing" is normally defined as "the 

operation of two or more vehicles from a point side 

by side at accelerating speed in competitive attempt 

to outdistance each other, or the operation of one or 

more vehicles over a common selected course, from 

the same point to the same point, for the purpose of 

comparing the relative speeds or power of 

acceleration of such vehicles or vehicles within a 

certain distance or time limit." See Uniform 

Vehicle Code §11-809(b). 

Reckless Driving: "Reckless driving" is normally 

defined as driving "any vehicle in willful or wanton 

disregard for the safety of persons or property." 

See Uniform Vehicle Code §11-901(a). Note: 

Speed is not necessarily a factor in this offense. 
 

SPEED 2005 iv

INTRODUCTION 

(continued) 

Statutory Speed Limit: A "statutory speed limit" is 

one specifically provided for under a State's traffic 

code (rules of the road). Such limits may vary by 

highway type (e.g., interstate) or by location (e.g., 

urban district). State laws may or may not require 

that these limits be posted. 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: Even though 

specific speed limits may have been established via 

legislation, State laws usually allow either State or 

local authorities to set highway speed limits above 

or below the statutory ones. Prior to taking such 

action on any portion of a highway, the law 

normally requires that governmental authorities 

conduct a study to determine the safe speed limit 

for that part of the highway. State laws may also 

allow such authorities to specify different speed 

limits on all or selected highways (or portions 

thereof) either for various times of the day or for 

various types of vehicles (e.g., trucks). 

Speed limits established under these laws are not 

effective until appropriate speed limit signs are 

posted on the highway. Caution: This summary 

does not report the speed limits that have been 

established via such laws.

Speed Law Sanctions: Except as noted, the 

criminal and administrative licensing sanctions 

given are the same for any offense listed under the 

heading "Basis for a Speed Law Violation." 

Important: The fine sanctions listed in this 

summary do not include court costs or bail schedule 

forfeitures. 

Highway and Street: In order to insure that the 

terms "highway" and "street" are synonymous and 

interchangeable, many State laws defined both as 

"[t]he entire width between the boundary lines of 

every way publicly maintained when any part 

thereof is open to the use of the public for purposes 

of vehicular travel." See Uniform Vehicle Code 

§§1-127 and 1-183. 

FEEDBACK and FUTURE EDITIONS 

Requests for future editions of or comments about 

this summary should be sent to: 

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 

Enforcement and Justice Services Division (NTI122) 

400 Seventh Street SW. 

Washington, DC 20590 

Telephone: 202-366-9588 or 202-366-1755 

Fax: 202-366-7721 
1 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: ALABAMA

General Reference: Code of Alabama 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is 

reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard to 

the actual and potential hazards than existing. §32-5A-170 

Statutory Speed Limit: I. 30 mph in any urban district. §32-5A-171(1) 

II 35 mph on any unpaved road. §32-5A-171(2)(a) 

III 45 mph on any county-maintained paved road in an 

unincorporated area. §32-5A-171(2)(b) 

IV 55 mph1

 on highways (except interstate highways or highways 

with four or more lanes). §32-5A-171(3) 

V 70 mph on interstate highways. §32-5A-171(4) 

VI 65 mph on a highway with four or more lanes. §32-5A-171(4) 

VII 55 mph for vehicles carrying explosives, flammable liquids or 

hazardous wastes except as authorized by the governor. §32-5A171(5) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Director of Public Safety and the State Highway Director may 

increase or decrease the above maximum speed limits on the State 

highway system.2

 §§32-5A-171(7) and 32-5A-172 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations and subject to 

approval by the State Highway Department, local governments 

may increase or decrease the speed limits on the highways under 

their jurisdiction. §32-5A-173 

III. State or local authorities may set special maximum safe speed 

limits for either bridges or elevated structures.3

 §32-5A-176 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: IV. The State Department of Transportation is authorized to 

establish speed limits on either urban or rural construction zones 

along State and Interstate highways. §32-5A — 176.19(a) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed as to 

impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic. §32-5A174(a) 

 

1

Under §32-5A-171(6), the governor is authorized to change the maximum speed limits in order to allow the State to 

receive Federal highway construction and maintenance funds. 2

This includes the establishment of different highway speed limits (1) for different types of vehicles (e.g., persons who 

operate certain types of trucks may be required to drive these vehicles at a slower speed than those who operate other types 

of motor vehicles), (2) at different times of the day, (3) for various weather conditions or (4) for other factors bearing on 

safe speeds. §32-5A-172 

3

It appears that §32-5A-176 has replaced §32-5-92 although this later section has not been specifically repealed. Under 

§32-5-92, State and local officials are authorized to establish maximum safe speed limits for public bridges, causeways or 

viaducts. However, this section provides for the following criminal sanctions for a violation of the posted safe speed limit: 

first offense — a jail term of not more than 10 days and/or a fine of not more than $100; second offense (within 1 year) — a 

jail term of not more than 20 days and/or a fine of not more than $200; and, third or subsequent offense (within 1 year) — a 

jail term of not more than 6 months at hard labor and/or a fine of not more than $500. 
SPEED 2005 2

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic shall 

drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as close as 

practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway. §32-

5A-80(b) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: A posted minimum speed on a road or highway may be 

established. Such action must be based on engineering and traffic 

studies. §32-5A-174(b) 

Other: N/A 

Adjudication of Speed Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are misdemeanors. §32-5A-8(a) 

Other: 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, Etc.): First offense — not more than 10 days; second offense (within 1 

year) — not more than 30 days; subsequent offense (within 1 

year) — not more than 3 months. §32-5A-8(b) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): First offense — not more than $100; second offense (within 1 

year) — not more than $200; subsequent offense (within 1 year) 

— not more than $500. §32-5A-8(b) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: 

 Other: Double Fines: The find is doubled the amount usually prescribed 

if a person exceeds the posted speed limit in a construction zone 

along a state or interstate highway, if construction personnel are 

present. §32-5A-176.1(a) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 

(Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system4

 that is based on the frequency and 

seriousness of the traffic offenses. §32-5A-195(k)(2) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Not more than 1 year §32-5A-195(m) 

 

4

Point System: I. An offender who accumulates 12 to 14 points in 2 years is subject to a 60-day suspension. An offender 

who accumulates 15 to 17 points in 2 years is subject to a 90-day suspension. An offender who accumulates 18 to 20 points 

in 2 years is subject to a 120-day suspension. An offender who accumulates ≥24 points in 2 years is subject to a 365-day 

suspension. These suspension periods are not mandatory, as the licensing agency may modify them. II. The following 

points are assigned to speeding or speed-related offenses: reckless driving — 6 points; speeding in excess of 85 mph (i.e., 

≥86 mph) — 5 points; speeding in excess of the posted speed limit — 2 points §32-5A-195 and Regulation 760-X-1-07 
3 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation:(continued) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Court Authorized Licensing Action: In addition to any other 

sanction for a criminal violation of the traffic laws, the court may 

issue an order "forbidding" an offender from operating a motor 

vehicle for either a specified period of time or perpetually. An 

appellate court may modify this order. §32-5-316 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Misdemeanor §§32-5A-8(a) and 32-5A-178(a) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — 5 to 90 days; subsequent offense — 10 days to 6 

months. §32-5A-178(d) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $25 to $500; subsequent offense — $50 to $500. 

§32-5A-178(d) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension. §§32-5A-178(d) and 32-5A-195(k)(8) Suspension

via the point system. 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: First or subsequent offense — 6 months. §32-5A-178(d) 

Suspension via the point system — 60 to 365 days.

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: None

 Other: The Court may order a suspension not exceeding 6 months. 

§32-5A-178(d) 

Reckless Driving: Misdemeanor. §§32-5A-8(a) and 32-5A-190(a) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — 5 to 90 days; subsequent offense — 10 days 

to 6 months. §32-5A-190(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $25 to $500; subsequent offense — $50 to 

$500. §32-5A-190(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): First or subsequent offense — suspension §32-5A-190(b). 

For 3 offenses (within 1 year) — revocation §32-5A-195(j)(7) 
SPEED 2005 4

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension offenses — not more than 6 months §32-5A190(b) Revocation offenses — The law does not specify a 

revocation period11. 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None

Other: N/A 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators12: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if, while 

driving such a vehicle, he/she (1) commits 2 "serious traffic 

violations”13" within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 such 

violations within a 3-year period. §32-6-49.11(e) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days §32-6-49.11(e) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §32-6-

49.11(e) 

 

5

However, the law does provide that a person's license or driving privileges cannot be suspended for more than 1 year. 

§32-5A-195(m). 

6

A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. A 

commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials that 

require that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with State or Federal laws. §32-6-49.3(5) 

7

A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §32-6-49.3(21)(a) 
5 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: ALASKA

General References: Alaska Statutes and Alaska Administrative Code (AAC) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is 

reasonable and prudent considering the traffic, roadway and 

weather conditions. 13 AAC 02.2758

Statutory Speed Limit: I. 55 mph on any roadway other than those otherwise limited. 

13 AAC 02.275(b)(4)1

II. 25 mph in a residential area. 13 AAC 02.275(b)(3)1

III. 20 mph in a business district. 13 AAC 02.275(b)(2)1

IV. 15 mph in an alley. 13 AAC 02.275(b)(1)1

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based upon engineering and traffic investigations, the above 

speed limits may be altered (increased or decreased).9

 13 

AAC 02.275(e) and 02.2801

II. Maximum safe speed limits may be established for bridges, 

elevated structures, tunnels and underpasses. 13 AAC 

02.325(f)1

Minimum Speed Limit: A person driving at less than the maximum authorized speed 

of traffic shall drive as close as practicable to the right-hand 

curb or edge of the roadway. 13 AAC 02.050(b) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: 

Other: I. Maximum speed when towing a mobile home is 45 mph. 13 

AAC 02.325(b)1

II. Maximum speed in a marked public school or playground 

is 20 mph. 13 AAC 02.325(d)1

III. Maximum speed when passing a school displaying 

flashing yellow lights is 20 mph. 13 AAC 02.325(e)1

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: A violation of the above regulations is an infraction and is not 

considered a criminal offense.1

 §28.40.050(c) and (d) 

Other: N/A 

 

8

This State establishes speed limits via regulations. These regulations have been promulgated via Alaska Statutes 

§28.05.011. Comment: It appears that speed regulations could also have been established via §§19.10.070 and 19.10.072. 

A violation of these statutory provisions, which would, no doubt, include the regulations promulgated under them, would 

be a misdemeanor. The sanctions for this misdemeanor are a jail term of not more than 1 year and/or a fine of from $10 to 

$500. §19.45.002 

9

This includes the establishment of different highway speed limits (1) for different types of vehicles (e.g., persons who 

operate certain types of trucks may be required to drive these vehicles at a slower speed than those who operate other types 

of motor vehicles), (2) at different times of the day, (3) for various weather conditions or (4) for other factors bearing on 

safe speeds. 13 AAC 02.280(c) 
SPEED 2005 6

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): N/A §28.40.050(d) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Not more than $300 §28.40.050(c) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: A person may be required to participate in a driver 

improvement course if he/she accumulates 6 or more points 

within 12 months or 9 or more points within 24 months. 

§28.15.253 

 Other: A driver who has accumulated sufficient points to be 

considered a problem driver may be required to appear for a 

driver improvement interview. 13 AAC 08.240(a) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Licensing action is via a point system.10

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: N/A 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: 13 AAC 02.330 via §28.05.011 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: This offense is an infraction and is not considered to be a 

criminal offense. §28.40.050(c) 

Imprisonment (Term): N/A §28.40.050(d) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: 

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $300 §28.40.050(c) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

 

10Point System: I. A person's license is suspended for 1 month if he/she (1) accumulates 12 or more points within a 12-

month period or (2) accumulates 18 or more points within a 24-month period. The suspension period is 3 months if person 

accumulates the required points a second time within a subsequent 24-month period. If the person has had two prior point 

related suspensions within 24 months and subsequently accumulates the required points within the proscribed period of 

time, driving privileges are revoked for 1 year. §§28.15.221 and 13 AAC 08.230. II. The following points are assessed for 

speeding violations: (1) in a school zone or playground crosswalk — 6 points; (2) 3 to 9 mph over the speed limit-2 points; 

(3) 10 to 19 mph over the speed limit — 4 points; and, (4) 20 or more mph over the speed limit — 6 points. 13 AAC 

08.210(11). III. Ten (10) points are assessed either for reckless driving or for speed contest-racing (racing on the 

highways). 13 AAC 08.210(3) and (4). IV. Six (6) points are assessed for negligent driving. 13 AAC 08.230(7). V. Four 

(4) points are assessed for careless driving (a municipal code offense). 13 AAC 08.210(13). 13 AAC 08.210(21) 
7 SPEED 2005 

Administrative Licensing Action: Licensing action is via a point system. 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: N/A 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: N/A 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: N/A 

Other: N/A 

Reckless Driving: Based on a substantial and unjustifiable risk of harm to 

persons or property. §28.35.040 

Sanction: Misdemeanor. §28.35.040(b) 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 1 year. §28.35.040(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. §28.35.040(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Revocation. §28.15.181(a)(6) and (b) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — not less than 30 days; second offense (within 

10 years) — not less than 1 year; third or subsequent offense

(within 10 years) — not less than 3 years. §28.15.181(b) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — none. A limited license for employment may 

be granted. If this type of driving privilege is allowed, it must 

remain in effect for at least 60 days; second offense (within 10 

years) — not less than 1 year;11 Third or subsequent offense

(within 10 years) — not less than 3 years. §28.15.181(b) 

Other: A driver also accumulates points for this offense. 

Negligent Driving: Based on an unjustifiable risk of harm to persons or property 

where there is an actual danger (e.g., accident). §28.35.045 

Sanction: 

Criminal: A violation of this provision is an infraction which is a 

noncriminal offense. §28.35.045(c) 

Imprisonment (Term): N/A. §28.40.050(d) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: N/A 

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $300. §28.35.050(c) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

 

11No limited driving privileges for employment can be granted. §28.15.181(b) 
SPEED 2005 8

Administrative Licensing Actions: Licensing action is via a point system. 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: N/A 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: N/A 

Other: N/A 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators5

: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she (1) commits 2 "serious traffic 

violations"6

 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 such 

violations within a 3-year period. §28.33.140(a)(6) and (c) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days. §28.33.140(c) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. 

§28.33.140(c) 

 

12A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,000 lbs., is designed to transport more than 15 persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §28.40.100(a)(2) 13A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph, reckless driving or negligent driving. 

§28.33.190(11)(A) and (B) 
9 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: ARIZONA

General References: Arizona Revised Statutes Annotated and Arizona 

Administrative Code (AAC) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: A person shall not drive a vehicle at a 

speed greater than is reasonable and prudent speed under the 

conditions and actual and potential hazards then existing. 

§28-701(A) and (D) 

Statutory Speed Limit: I. 15 mph approaching a school crossing.14 §28-701(B)(1) 

II. 5 mph in business or residential district. §28-701(B)(2) 

III. 65 in other locations. §28-701(B)(3) 

IV. 65 mph on interstate highways outside of urban areas with 

a population ≥50,000. §28-702.04(A) See II under Posted 

(Maximum) Speed Limit below. 

V. 65 mph (1) for vehicles weighing >26,000 lbs. excluding

vehicles designed to carry 16 on more persons including the 

driver or (2) for vehicles drawing a pole trainer weighing 

≥6,000 lbs. §28-709(A) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. (1) Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the 

Director of the State Department of Transportation may alter 

or vary the above statutory speed limits on the State highway 

system.15 §28-702. (2) Based on engineering and traffic 

investigations, the Department may increase the speed limit 

for vehicles >26,000 or for vehicles drawing a pole trailer.16 

§28-709(B) 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the 

Director of the State Department of Transportation may 

increase the maximum speed limit on interstate highways 

outside of urban areas with a population ≥50,000 to 75 mph. 

§§28-702 and 28-702.04(C) 

III. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, local 

governments may increase (but not >65 mph) or decrease the 

speed limits on highways under their jurisdiction. §28-703 

IV. Based on an investigation, the Director of the State 

Department of Transportation may establish a safe maximum 

speed limit of any bridge or elevated structure. §28-706(B) 

and (C) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. A person shall not drive a motor vehicle at a speed that is 

less than that which is reasonable and prudent under the 

existing circumstances. §28-701(E) 

 

14Exceeding this speed limit "is prima facie evidence that the speed is too great and therefore unreasonable." §28-701(B) 15This includes the establishment of different highway speed limits either (1) for different types of vehicles (e.g., persons 

who operate certain types of trucks may be required to drive these vehicles at a slower speed than those who operate other 

types of motor vehicles), (2) at different times of the day, (3) for various weather conditions or (4) for other factors bearing 

on safe speeds. §28-702. In addition, on multiple lane highways with two or more separate roadways, different prima facie

speed limits may be established on each roadway. §28-703.02 26Based upon engineering and traffic investigations, the Department may require these vehicles to operate only in certain 

lanes on specific highways. §28-736 
SPEED 2005 10

 II. A person shall not drive a motor vehicle at such a slow 

speed as to impede or block the normal and reasonable 

movement of traffic. §28-704(A) 

III. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §28-721(B) 

 Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the Director 

of the State Department of Transportation or local government 

officials may establish a minimum speed limit on a highway. 

§28-704(B) Note: Slower moving traffic may be directed to 

use designated lanes. §28-729(3) 

Other: I. A person shall not drive a vehicle that is equipped with solid 

rubber tires >10 mph. §28-706(A) 

II. A person shall not drive a vehicle that is towing a trailer or 

semi-trailer at a rate of speed that causes the trailer or semitrailer to sway laterally from the lane of traffic. §28-896 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: A violation of the speed laws is a Civil (Non Criminal) Traffic 

infraction §28-121(B) 

Other: 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): N/A

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Not more than $25017 §28-1598 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 

Traffic School: I. The licensing agency may require an offender to attend and 

successfully complete a Traffic Survival School. §§28-3306 

and 3307 and AAC R17-4-506 (via the point system) 

 

17Limited Sanctions for Exceeding a Posted Speed Limit of 55 mph: On highways with a posted maximum speed limit 

of 55 mph, a person who exceeds this limit but whose speed was ≤65 mph, is subject to a fine of not more than $15 plus 

assessments which can be ≤60 percent of the fine imposed. A violation is not to be used to establish motor vehicle 

insurance rates. This offense is "designated as the waste of finite resource currently in short supply and is considered a civil 

traffic violation." Note: The regular sanctions for a speeding offense apply, if a person exceeds a 55 mph speed limit by 

>65 mph. §§12-116.01, 12-116.02 and 28-702.01. 
11 SPEED 2005 

 

II. The court may allow a violator to attend defensive driving 

school. The civil charges shall be dismissed if the offender 

successfully completes the course. However, a person can 

only attend this course once in any 24-month period. §§28-

3392 and 28-3394 

 Other: An offender is also subject to assessments which can be ≤60 

percent of the fine imposed. §§12-116.01 and 12-116.02 

 Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Licensing action is via a point system.18

Special Note: On highways with posted maximum speed 

limits of 55 mph, a person who is convicted of a speeding 

offense where the speed was >55 mph but ≤65 mph is not 

subject to licensing action. §28-702.01(B) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: N/A 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: N/A 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Class 1 misdemeanor. A second or subsequent violation 

within 24 months is a Class 6 felony. §28-708(A) and (B) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — not more than 6 months; second or

subsequent offenses-no more than 1 year. §§13-701(C)(5) and 

13-707(A)(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: First offense — none; second or subsequent offense (within 

24 months) — 10 days.19 §28-708(B) 

Fine ($ Range): First offense — not less than $2,500; §13-802(A). Second or 

subsequent offenses — (Class 6 felony) Not more than 

$150,000. §13-801(A) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: First offense — not less than $250; second or subsequent 

offenses — not less than $500. §28-708(C) and(D) 

 

Administrative Licensing Action: Licensing action is taken via Courts. §28-708(D) 

 

18Point System: A person who accumulates 8 points within 12 months (1) may have his/her license suspended for not 

more than 1 year or (2) may be required to attend a traffic education and training course. The following points are assessed 

for speeding and speed-related violations: (1) for a violation of any provision of §28-701 — 3 points; (2) for reckless 

driving, aggressive driving or racing on the highways — 8 points. AAC R17-4-404 (via §28-202(A)) and §28-3315(A) 

19An offender may be allowed to leave the incarceration facility for either employment or educational purposes. §28-

693(E) and (F) 
SPEED 2005 12

Licensing action is also possible via the point system. 

 Type of Action: First offense — suspension; second or subsequent offense

(within 24 months or within 60 months under §28-

3304(A)(7)) — Revocation. §§28-708(D) and 28-3304(A)(7) 

 Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: First offense — not more than 90 days; second or subsequent 

offense (within 24 months or within 60 months under §28-

3304(A)(7)) — not more than 1 year. §§28-708(D) and 28-

3315(A) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: First offense — none; second or subsequent offense (within 

24 months or within 60 months under §28-3304(A)(7)) — 

Mandatory Revocation. However, the law does not provide 

for a specific revocation period. §§28-708(F) and 28-3315(A) 

Other: I. The licensing agency may require an offender to attend and 

successfully complete a Traffic Survival School. §§28-3306 

and 3307 and AAC R17-4-506 (via the point system) 

II. An offender is also subject to assessments which can be 

≤60 percent of the fine imposed. §§12-116.01 and 12-116.02 

Reckless Driving: Class 2 misdemeanor. A second or subsequent violation 

within 24 months is a Class 1 misdemeanor. §28-693(A), (B) 

and (D) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — Class 2 misdemeanor — not more than 4 

months; second or subsequent offense (within 24 months) — 

Class 1 misdemeanor — not more than 6 months. §13-

707(A)(1) and (2) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: First offense — Class 2 misdemeanor — none; second or 

subsequent offense (within 24 months) — Class 1 

misdemeanor-20 days. §28-693(D)(2) 

Fine ($ Range): First offense — Class 2 misdemeanor — not more than $750; 

second or subsequent offense (within 24 months) — Class 1 

misdemeanor — not more than $2,500. §13-802(A) and (B) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: Licensing action is taken by Agency via the courts. §28-

693(C) and (D) 

Note: Licensing action is also possible via the point system. 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): First offense — suspension; second or subsequent offense

(within 24 months or within 60 months under §28-

3304(A)(7)) — Revocation. §§28-693(C) and (D) and 28-

3304(A)(7) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — not more than 90 days; second or subsequent 

offense (within 24 months or within 60 months under §28-
13 SPEED 2005 

3304(A)(7)) — not more than 1 year. §§28-693(B) and 28-

3315(A) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — none; second or subsequent offense (within 

24 months or within 60 months under §28-3304(A)(7)) — 

Mandatory Revocation. However, the law does not provide 

for a specific revocation period. §§28-3315(A) and 28-

693(D)(4) 

 

 Other: I. The licensing agency may require an offender to attend and 

successfully complete a Traffic Survival School. §§28-3306 

and 3307 and AAC R17-4-506 (via the point system) 

 II. An offender is also subject to assessments that can be as 

high as 70 percent of the fine imposed. §§12-116.01 and 12-

116.02 

 

Excessive Speed20: Class 3 misdemeanor. §28-701.02(B) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 30 days. §13-707(A)(3) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $500. §13-802(C) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Licensing action is via a point system. 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 

Other: I. The licensing agency may require an offender to attend and 

successfully complete a Traffic Survival School. §§28-3306 

and 3307 and AAC R17-4-506 (via the point system) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: II. The court may allow a violator to attend defensive driving 

school. The criminal charges 

shall be dismissed if the offender successfully completes the 

course. However, a person can only attend this course once in 

any 24-month period. §28-3392 and 28-3393 

III. An offender is also subject to assessments which can be as 

high as 70 percent of the fine imposed. §§12-116.01 and 12-

116.02 

Aggressive Driving21: Class 1 misdemeanor. §28-695(A), (B) and (D)(1) 

 

20Excessive speed is defined as driving (1) >35 mph approaching a school crossing, (2) >20 mph above a posted speed limit 

(>45 mph if there is no posted speed limit) in a business or residential district, or driving >85 mph in other locations. §28-

701.02(A) 
SPEED 2005 14

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 6 months. §13-707(A)(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $2,500. §13-802(A) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: A person may also be subject to a 2-point assessment under 

the point system. AAC R-17-4-506 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): First offense — suspension; second or subsequent offense

(within 24 months) — Revocation. §28-695(C)(2) and (D)(2) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — 30 days; second or subsequent offense

(within 24 months) — 1 year. §28-695(C)(2) and (D)(2) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — none; second or subsequent offense (within 

24 months) — 1 year. §28-695(C)(2) and (D)(2) 

Other: I. First offenders must “attend and successfully complete 

approved Traffic Survival School training and education 

sessions that are designed to improve the safety and habits of 

drivers....” §§28-695(C)(1) and 28-3307 

II An offender is also subject to assessments which can be as 

high as 70 percent of the fine imposed. §§12-116.01 and 12-

116.02 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators22: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she (1) commits 2 "serious traffic 

violations"23 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 such 

violations within a 3-year period. §28-3312(A)(5) and (6) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

consecutive days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — 

not less than 120 consecutive days. §28-3312(A)(5) and (6) 

 31A person commits "Aggressive Driving” if both of the following occur: (1) if during a “course of conduct, ” he/she 

violates either the Basic Speed Rule (§28-701(A)) or the “Excessive Speed” law (§28-701.02) plus two of the following 

minor driving offenses: (a) failure to obey traffic control devices; (b) overtaking and passing another vehicle on the right by

driving off the pavement or main traveled portion of the roadway; (c) unsafe lane change; (d) following a vehicle too 

closely; or (e) failure to yield the right-of-way; and, (2)his/her “driving is an immediate hazard to another person or 

vehicle.” “Course of conduct” means “a series of acts committed during a single, continuous period of driving.” §28-

695(A) and (F) 

22A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is a school bus, bus, or is transporting hazardous materials which requires that the vehicle be 

placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §28-3001(3) 23A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph, reckless driving, aggressive driving or 

racing on the highway. §28-3312(F) 
15 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: ARKANSAS

 

General Reference: Arkansas Code Annotated 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at speed that is greater than is 

reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having 

regard to the actual and potential hazards than existing. §27-

51-201(a)(1) 

Statutory Speed Limit: Controlled-Access Highways — The maximum speed is 

determined via engineering and traffic studies.24 

See Other below. §27-51-201(b)(1) 

30 mph25 in urban districts. §27-51-201(c)(1) 

50 mph for trucks with a capacity ≥11⁄2 tons in other locations 

(except controlled access highways). §27-51-201(c)(2) 

60 mph for other vehicles in other locations (except controlled 

access highways). §27-51-201(c)(3) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based upon engineering and traffic studies, the State 

Highway Commission may alter the above statutory speed 

limits on the State highway system.26 §27-51-204 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, local 

governments may increase the speed limits on highways 

within their jurisdictions. However, no speed limit can be >45 

mph. §27-51-206(b) 

III. Based on an investigation, the State Highway Commission 

may establish safe maximum speed limits for bridges or other 

elevated structures. §27-51-209(a) and (b) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed 

as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic. 

§27-51-208(b) 

II. A person shall not operate a motor vehicle continuously in 

the left lane of a multi-lane 

 roadway whenever it impedes the flow of other traffic. §27-

51-301(b) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based upon engineering and traffic studies, a minimum speed 

limit for any highway may be established. §27-51-208(b). 

Note: Via signs, slower moving traffic may be directed to use 

designated lanes. §27-51-302(2) 

 

24However, the speed limit on controlled-access highways for trucks with a ≥11⁄2 ton capacity must be established at 10 mph 

below that established for automobiles. §27-51-201(b)(2) 25This appears to be a prima facie speed limit. §§27-51-201(e) and 27-51-202(a) 16Under this authority, the State Highway Commission has established the following speed limits: on rural freeways, 70 

mph for cars and 65 mph for trucks; on suburban freeways, 60 mph for all vehicles; on urban freeways, 55 mph for all 

vehicles; and, on rural expressways with high-type partial control of access, 60 mph for all vehicles. Minute Order 

Revisions 74-007, 87-110, 88-010, 96-148, 97-104 and 98-215 
SPEED 2005 16 

Other: I. 30 mph is the maximum speed for a vehicle which is over 

width, over length, or over height and has a gross weight of 

≥64,000 lbs. §27-51-201(c)(4) 

 II. 55 mph is the maximum speed while towing a 

manufactured home or mobile home. However, on highways 

with a posted speed limit of <55 mph, the posted speed limit 

applies. The Highway and Transportation Department may 

set speed limits less than 55 mph or those posted via a 

restriction on the oversize permit issued to any specific 

vehicle. §27-51-210. 

 III. 10 mph is the maximum speed while operating a vehicle 

equipped with solid rubber or cushion tires. §27-51-211 

IV.25 mph is the maximum speed when passing a school or 

while in a school zone during school hours when students are 

present and outside the building. §27-51-212 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: A violation of the speed laws is a misdemeanor offense. 

§§27-50-304, 27-50-305 and 27-51-214 

Other: Speeding in Excess of 15 mph over the posted speed limits is 

a Class C misdemeanor. §27-50-302(7). 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: Note: Except as noted, the following sanctions apply to all 

speed law violations. 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): First offense — not more than 10 days; second offense

(within 1 year) — not more than 20 days; third or subsequent 

offense (within 1 year) — not more than 6 months. §§27-50-

304 and 27-50-305 

Speeding in School Zone — first offense — 1 to 10 days; 

second offense (within 1 year) — 5 to 25 days; third or 

subsequent offense (within 1 year) — 25 days to 6 months. 

§27-51-214 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: Speeding in School Zone27 — first offense — 1 day; second

offense (within 1 year) — 5 days; third or subsequent offense

(within 1 year) — 25 days. §27-51-214 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): First offense — not more than $100; second offense (within 1 

year) — not more than $200; third or subsequent offense

(within 1 year) — not more than $500. §§27-50-304 and 27-

50-305 

Speeding in School Zone — first offense — $25 to $100; 

second offense (within 1 year) — $50 to $250; third or 

subsequent offense (within 1 year) — $250 to $1,000. §27-

51-214 

 

27The law appears to make the minimum sanction mandatory. 
17 SPEED 2005 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): Speeding in School Zone — first offense — $25; second

offense (within 1 year) — $50; third or subsequent offense

(within 1 year) — $250. §27-51-214 

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: Attendance at driver's training school may be required. §27-

50-306(3) 

 Other: Highway Work Zone: The fine is doubled if the offense is 

committed in a highway work zone when construction 

personnel are present and where signs indicating a “double 

fine zone” are posted. §27-50-408(b)(1)(A) 

 

 Driving >15 mph Over the Speed Limit: It is a Class C 

misdemeanor to operate a motor vehicle in excess of 15 mph 

over the posted speed limit. The sanctions for this offense are 

imprisonment for not more than 30 days and/or a fine of not 

more than $100. §§5-4-201(b)(3), 5-4-401(b)(3) and 27-50-

302(7) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via the courts.28 §27-50-306(1) Suspension or 

Revocation via a point system.29

Speeding in School Zone — second offense (within 1 year) — 

suspension; third offense (within 1 year) — suspension. 

§27-51-214(2)(B) and (3)(B) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Not more than 1 year.30 §27-50-306(1) 

Speeding in School Zone — second offense (within 1 year) — 

6 months; third offense (within 1 year) — 1 year. §27-51-

214(2)(B) and (3)(B) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: Speeding in School Zone — second offense (within 1 year) — 

6 months; third offense (within 1 year) — 1 year. §27-51-

214(2)(B) and (3)(B) 

 

28A suspension of not more than one year may be imposed by the court. This suspension is based upon a review of the 

offender's driving record. §27-50-306 and Cook v. State, 968 S.W.2d 589 (Ark. 1998) 29Point System: I. If an offender accumulates between 14 and 17 points, his/her license is suspended from 3 to 6 months. 

If an offender accumulates between 18 and 23 points, his/her license is suspended from 6 months to 1 year. If an offender 

accumulates more than 24 points, his/her license is either suspended for not less than 1 year or revoked for no more than 

one year. II. The following points are assigned for speeding and speed-related offenses: racing on the highway — 8 points; 

reckless driving — 8 points; careless (or negligent) driving — 3 points; hazardous driving — 3 points; driving less than the 

minimum speed limit — 3 points; impeding traffic — 3 points; driving too fast for conditions — 3 points; speeding 0 to 10 

mph over the limit — 3 points; speeding 11 to 20 mph over the limit — 4 points; speeding 21 to 30 mph over the limit — 5 

points; speeding ≥31 mph over the limit — 8 points; §27-14-403(a), §27-16-907 and Regulation 1-27-16-907(G) Note: 

Although listed as offenses under the point system, the Arkansas Code does not make either hazardous or unsafe driving an 

offense under State law. 

30I. The offender may be granted conditional or restricted driving privileges during a suspension. §27-50-306(2). II. 

Suspension or revocation under the point system is discretionary. 
SPEED 2005 18 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Special Fine for Speeding in Heavy Trucks: On interstate 

highways or state highways which have a posted speed limit 

for trucks different from other motor vehicles, a person 

driving a truck weighing ≥20,000 lbs. in excess of 5 mph of 

the posted speed limit is subject to a fine of $50 for each mph 

exceeding the posted speed limit in excess of 5 mph. This fine 

is in addition to all other fines and court costs. §27-50-311 

 Multiple Violations: Arkansas law also provides that it is a 

Class C misdemeanor to commit 3 violations within 12 

months. Sanctions: jail — not more than 30 days; and, finenot more than $100. §§5-4-201(b)(3), 5-4-401(b)(3) and 27-

50-302(8) 

 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Class A misdemeanor §§27-50-302(1) and 27-50-309 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 1 year §5-4-401(b)(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000 §5-4-201(b)(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension via the courts §27-50-306(1). Suspension or 

Revocation via the point system 

Other (continued) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Not more than 1 year5

 §27-50-306(1) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: None

Other: I. Second offense (within 6 months) — An offender may be 

fined an amount not exceeding double that for a first offense 

and is subject to a license revocation for not more than 60 

days; third or subsequent offense (within 6 months) — An 

offender may be fined an amount not exceeding double that 

for a first offense and is subject a license revocation for not 

more than 6 months. §27-51-102(b)(1) and (2) Important: 

See the “notes” in the annotated version of the Arkansas 

Statutes for the application of §27-51-102. 

II. A person may be required to attend a driver's training 

school. §27-50-306(3) 

 III. Highway Work Zone: The fine is doubled if the offense 

is committed in a Highway Work Zone. §27-50-408(b)(1)(A) 
19 SPEED 2005 

Reckless Driving: Class B misdemeanor §§27-50-302(2) and 27-50-308 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): I. Non-Injury-related offense: first offense — 5 to 90 days

§27-50-308(b)(1)(B); second or subsequent offense (within 3 

years) — 30 days to 6 months. §27-50-308(b)(2)(A) 

 II. Injury-related Offense — first offense — 30 to 90 days

§27-50-308(b)(1)(A); second or subsequent offense31 (within 

3 years) — 60 days to 1 year. §27-50-308(b)(2)(B) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): I. Non-Injury-related Offense: first offense — $25 to $500

§27-50-308(b)(1)(B); second or subsequent offense (within 3 

years) — $500 to $1,000. §27-50-308(b)(2)(A) 

II. Injury-related Offense — first offense — $100 to $1,000

§27-50-308(b)(1)(A); second or subsequent offense (within 3 

years) — $500 to $1,000. §27-50-308(b)(2)(B) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

 Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via the courts §27-50-306(1) or Suspension or 

Revocation via the point system 

For 3 convictions within 12 months-Revocation §27-16-

905(5) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension for not more than 1 year §27-50-306(1) 

Revocation for 1 year §27-16-912 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: For 3 convictions within 12 months — 1 Year Revocation

§§27-16-905(5) and 27-16-912 

Other: I. A person may be required to attend a driver's training 

school. §27-50-306(3) 

II. Highway Work Zone: The fine is doubled if the offense is 

committed in a Highway Work Zone. §27-50-408(b)(1)(A) 

Careless and Prohibited Driving: Violation §§5-1-108, 27-50-301 and 27-51-104(a) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $100 §27-51-104 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

 

31The sanctions for a second or subsequent injury offense also apply where the first offense was non-injury related but 

where the second or subsequent one was so related. §27-50-308(b)(2)(B) 
SPEED 2005 20 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via the courts §27-50-306(1) Suspension or 

Revocation via the point system 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Not more than 1 year §27-50-306(1) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 

Withdrawal Action: None

Other: I. A person may be required to attend a driver's training 

school. §27-50-306(3) 

II. Highway Work Zone: The fine is doubled if the offense is 

committed in a Highway Work Zone. §27-50-408(b)(1)(A) 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators32: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she (1) commits 2 "serious traffic 

violations"33 within a 3-year period, or (2) commits 3 such 

violations within a 3-year period. §27-23-112(e) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days. §27-23-112(e)

 

32A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §27-23-103(7) 33A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §27-23-103(23) 
21 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: CALIFORNIA

General Reference: West's Annotated California Codes 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is 

reasonable or prudent having due regard for weather, 

visibility, the traffic on, and surface and width of, the 

highway.34 In no event, shall a speed such as to endanger the 

safety of persons or property. Veh. Code §22350 

Statutory Speed Limit: 65 mph35 (except as noted below) Veh. Code §§22349(a) and 

22356 

See Other below. 55 mph on two lane undivided highway. Veh. Code 

§22349(b) 

25 mph36 (prima facie limit) in a business or residence district. 

Veh. Code §22352(a)(2) 

25 mph near a children's playground.37 Veh. Code §22357.1 

15 mph38 (prima facie limit) on any alley. Veh. Code 

§22352(a)(1)(C) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic surveys, the State 

Department of Transportation may establish prima facie speed 

limits of 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30 or 25 mph on the State 

highway system.39 Veh. Code §22354 

II. Based on engineering and traffic surveys, a local 

government may decrease the 65 mph speed limit on 

applicable highways within its jurisdiction. Such government 

may establish prima facie speed limits of 60, 55, 50, 45, 40, 

35, 30 or 25 mph on such highways. 

Veh. Code §§22358(a) and 22360 

III. Based on engineering and traffic surveys, a local 

government may increase the above prima facie 25 mph speed 

limit. Such government may establish prima facie 

 

34It is a prima facie violation of the basic speed rule to exceed a construction zone speed limit. A construction zone speed 

limit cannot be <25 mph. Veh. Code §22362 

35Based upon engineering and traffic surveys, the State Department of Transportation may increase the maximum speed 

limit to 70 mph. Veh. Code §22356(a) Note: Neither the 65 mph nor 70 mph maximum speed limits apply to certain types 

of vehicles per Veh. Code §22406. 

36Or (1) when approaching or passing a school which is not separated from the highway by a physical barrier, with a 

standard "school" warning sign while children are going to or leaving the school or during school hours or (2) when passing 

a facility used by senior citizens with a standard "senior" warning sign. Veh. Code §22352(b)(2) and (3) 37This limit is established by local authorities. 

38Or when traversing either a uncontrolled railway crossing or uncontrolled highway intersection where the driver does not 

have a clear and unobstructed view. Veh. Code §22352(a)(1)(A) and (B) 

39Also, based on engineering and traffic surveys, the State Department of Transportation may establish different speed 

limits for various times of the day or night. Veh. Code §22355 
SPEED 2005 22 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

speed limits of 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60 or 65 mph on 

highways under its jurisdiction.40 Veh. Code §22357 

IV. Notwithstanding other provisions of law, a city or county 

located within the South Coast Air Quality Management 

District may establish on unpaved roads a prima facie speed 

limit lower than permitted in order to comply with air 

quality standards. Veh. Code §22365 

V. Based on engineering and traffic surveys, a local 

government may decrease the above 25 mph prima facie

speed limit to either 15 or 20 mph on streets under its 

jurisdiction having a width not more than 25 

 feet. Veh. Code §22358.3 

 VI. Based on engineering and traffic surveys, a local 

government may lower the above 25 mph prima facie 15 or 20 

mph for business and residential districts or school zones. 

Veh. Code §22358.4 

VII. Based on engineering and traffic surveys, the State or a 

local government on highways within their respective 

jurisdictions may establish different prima facie speed limits 

for different roadways. Veh. Code §22361 

VIII. When ice or snow conditions exist, the State Department 

of Transportation or a local government on highways under 

their respective jurisdictions may establish prima facie speed 

limits of 40, 35, 30 or 25 mph. Veh. Code §22363 

IX. Based on engineering and traffic surveys, the State 

Department of Transportation may establish different speed 

limits for highway lanes on the State highway system. Veh. 

Code §22364 

X. The State Department of Transportation or a local 

government may establish a safe maximum speed limit (but 

not <5 mph) for bridges, elevated structures, tubes or tunnels 

on the highway under their respective jurisdictions. Veh. 

Code §§22402, 22403, 22404 and 22405 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. A person shall not drive a vehicle at such a slow speed as to 

impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of 

traffic. Veh. Code §22400(a) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane for traffic or as close as 

practicable to the right-hand edge or curb. 

 Veh. Code §21654(a) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic surveys, the State 

Department of Transportation may establish a minimum speed 

on any part of the State highway system. Veh. Code 

§22400(b) 

 

40A local government may also establish a prima facie speed limit of 25 mph on highways under its jurisdiction that are 

adjacent to a children's playground in a public park. However, such a speed limit is only to be effective during hours when 

children are expected to use such playground. Veh. Code §22357.1 
23 SPEED 2005 

Other: I. 25 mph is the maximum speed for vehicles with solid tires 

and having a gross vehicle weight for ≥10,000 but <16,000 

lbs. Veh. Code §22409 

II. 15 mph is the maximum speed for vehicles equipped with 

solid tires and having a gross vehicle weight for ≥16,000 but 

<22,000 lbs. Veh. Code §22409 

III. 12 mph is the maximum speed for vehicles equipped with 

solid tires and having a gross vehicle weight of 

 ≥22,000 lbs. Veh. Code §22409 

IV. 55 mph41 is the maximum speed for: (1) A motor truck, 

(2) a track tractor having three or more axles, (3) a motor 

truck or track tractor drawing any other vehicle, (4) a 

passenger vehicle or bus drawing any other vehicle, (5) a 

school bus while transporting pupils, (6) a farm labor vehicle 

while transporting passengers, (7) a vehicle transporting 

explosives or (8) a trailer bus. Veh. Code §22406. These 

vehicles must be driven in the right-hand lane or as close as 

practicable to the right curb. Veh. Code §22348(c) 

V. 6 mph is the maximum speed for vehicles equipped with 

metal tires. Veh. Code §22410 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All law speed violations are infractions. Veh. Code §§22351, 

40000.1 and 42001(a) 

Other: Important. See Miscellaneous Sanctions below. 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): None

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): First offense — not more than $100.42 Second offense (within 

1 year) — not more than $200. Third or subsequent offense

(within 1 year) — not more than $250. Veh. Code 

§42001(a)(1), (2) and (3) 

See III under Miscellaneous Sanctions below. 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None 

 

41Based on engineering and traffic surveys, the State Department of Transportation may reduce the 55 mph maximum 

speed limit for motor trucks or truck tractors having gross vehicle weight ≥10,000 lbs. while in a descending grade. The 

speed limit for these vehicles may be established at 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25 or 20 mph. Veh. Code §22407 

42A person who exceeds the speed limit on certain segments of certain highways designated as “Safety Enhancement — 

Double Fine” zones is subject to a fine sanction which is one category higher than the amount otherwise prescribed by the 

uniform traffic fine schedule. Note: Additional forfeitures or assessments, which are based on the fine imposed, are to be 

calculated using only the base fine prior to the above enhancement. Streets and Highways Code §97 and Veh. Code 

§§40310 and 42010. Veh. Code §40310 provides that the California Judicial Council shall establish a uniform traffic fine 

schedule. Streets and Highways Code §97 and Veh. Code §42010 are effective only until January 1, 2004 unless a later 

enacted statute declares otherwise. 
SPEED 2005 24 

Sanctions Following Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation:

(continued) 

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: Court ordered traffic violator school. Veh. Code §42005 

 Other: I. Traffic Violation Points.43 An offender is assessed 1 point 

on his/her driving record. Veh. Code §12810(e) 

II. Special State/County Penalties (Fines).44

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension. Veh. Code §13200 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): First offense — not more than 30 days. Second offense —

not more than 60 days. Third or subsequent offense — not

more than 6 months. Veh. Code §1320045

 Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: I. The following fines apply to offenses involving exceeding 

the basic speed rule (Veh. Code §22350), exceeding 55 mph 

in a bus, motor truck, truck tractor (with 3 or more axles) or 

any motor truck or truck tractor drawing any other vehicle 

(Veh. Code §22406) or exceeding the speed established for a 

bus, motor truck, truck tractor (with 3 or more axles) or any 

motor truck or truck tractor drawing any other vehicle when 

descending a 

 grade. (Veh. Code §22407): first offense — not more than 

$100. First offense (where speed was ≥10 mph over the limit) 

— not more than $200. Second or subsequent offense — not

more than $300. Veh. Code §42000.5 

II. For speeding in a tank vehicle transporting >500 gallons of 

flammable liquids, in willful or wanton disregard for the 

safety of others, a person is subject to the following additional

sanctions: first offense — not more than $500. Second or 

subsequent offense (within 2 years) — not more than $2,000

 

43Point System: A person is presumed to be a negligent driver if he/she accumulates four or more points in 12 months, 6 

or more points in 24 months, or 8 or more points in 36 months. Such a driver can have his/her driving privileges suspended 

for not more than 6 months. However, he/she may obtain restricted driving privileges for use during the scope of his/her 

employment. Veh. Code §§12809, 12810, 12810.5, 12812, 13359 and 13556 

44Special State Penalty (Fine): An additional State penalty of $10 is assessed against every defendant for every $10 of a 

fine (or fraction thereof) actually imposed and paid by a defendant. Penal Code §§1463(h) and 1464(a) 

Special County Penalty (Fine): An additional county penalty of $7 is assessed against every defendant for every $10 of a 

fine (or fraction thereof) actually imposed and paid by a defendant. Gov’t. Code §76000 and Penal Code §§1463(h) 

Note: The portion of any fine that has been either suspended or reduced is not considered when calculating these 

assessments. 

45This code provision does not state a time period within which a second or subsequent offense must be committed after a 

first in order to impose enhanced sanctions. As a result, it appears that the enhanced licensing sanctions apply regardless of

the time lapse between first, second or subsequent offenses. 
25 SPEED 2005 

and suspension of hazardous material or cargo tank 

endorsement for ≤6 months. Veh. Code §22406.5 

III. If the imposition of an infraction fine would impose a 

hardship (offender or his/her family), the court may sentence 

such person to perform community service in lieu of the “total 

fine” (i.e., the base fine, all assessments, penalties and 

additional monies). Penal Code §1209.5 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway46: Misdemeanor Veh. Code §§23109 and 40000.15 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Speed Contest: first offense — 24 hours to 90 days. 

Subsequent offense (within 5 years) — 4 days to 6 months. 

Veh. Code §23109(e) and (f) 

Exhibition of Speed: Not more than 90 days. Veh. Code 

§23109(i) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: Speed Contest: first offense — none. Subsequent offense

(within 5 years) — 48 hours. Veh. Code §23109(f) 

Exhibition of Speed: None

 Fine ($ Range): Speed Contest: first offense — $355 to $1,000.47 

 Subsequent offense:

 Fine: ($Range) (within 5 years) — $500 to $1,000. Veh. Code §23109(e) and 

(f) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: Exhibition of Speed: Not more than $500. Veh. Code 

§23109(i) Speed Contest: first or subsequent offense (within 

5 years) — none. Exhibition of Speed: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

 Type of Action: For Speed Contest — suspension. Veh. Code §13352(a)(8) 

and 23109(e) and (f) 

 Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Speed Contest: first offense — suspension 90 days to 6 

months. Veh. Code §§13352(a)(8) and 23109(e) Subsequent 

offense (within 5 years) — suspension 6 months. Veh. Code 

§§13352(a)(9) and 23109(f) 

Exhibition of Speed: None

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 

 46The law makes it an offense to "engage in any motor vehicle speed contest on a highway" or "engage in any exhibition 

of speed on a highway". 

47Double Fines: A fine, double the amount otherwise prescribed by law, may be imposed on a person who commits a 

racing or reckless driving misdemeanor offense on the segments of certain highways designated as “Safety 

Enhancement’ Double Fine” zones. Note: Additional forfeitures or assessments, which are based on the fine imposed, are 

to be calculated using only the base fine prior to the above enhancement. Streets and Highways Code §97 and Veh. Code 

§42010. These sections are repealed January 1, 2004. 48For either a first or subsequent offense, an offender may obtain restricted driving privileges for the purpose of traveling to 

and from work or to perform duties within the scope of their employment. Veh. Code §23109(e) and (f) 
SPEED 2005 26 

 Withdrawal: Speed Contest: first or subsequent offense (within 5 years) — 

none48

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: (continued) 

Exhibition of Speed: None

 

Other: I. Speed Contest: first or subsequent offense (within 5 years) 

— If the vehicle is owned by the offender, it may be 

impounded from 1 day to 30 days. Veh. Code §23109(h) 

II. For either offense, the court may order an offender to 

attend a traffic violator school. Veh. Code §42005 

III. Traffic Violation Points. An offender is assessed 2 

points on their driving record. Veh. Code §12810(d)(1) 

 IV. Special State/County Penalties (Fines).

Reckless Driving49: Misdemeanor Veh. Code §§23103(a), 

 40000.15 and 40000.24 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): 5 days to 90 days. Veh. Code 23103(c) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): $145 to $1,000.4

 Veh. Code 23103(c) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension or Revocation. Veh. Code §§13200 and 

13351(a)(2) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — not more than 30 days suspension. Second 

offense — Not more than 60 days suspension. Third or 

subsequent offense — Not more than 6 months suspension. 

Veh. Code §13200. Three (3) or more offenses (within 12 

months) — 3 years revocation. Veh. Code §13351(a)(2) and 

(b) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 

49Eluding a Police Officer: A person who either flees or attempts to elude a police while driving “in a willful or wanton 

disregard for the safety of persons or property,” is subject to the following sanctions: Imprisonment in either the State 

prison or county jail for 6 months to 1 year and/or a fine of not less than $1,000 not more than $10,000. The law defines 

“willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property” to include (but is not limited to) the commission of three 

or more traffic law violations for which points can be assigned under Vehicle Code §12810 (e.g., exceeding the speed limit, 

racing on the highway, reckless driving) while fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer. Veh. Code §2800.2 

Assault Using a Motor Vehicle (Road Rage): A person who commits an assault in violation of Penal Code §245(a) using 

a motor vehicle (commonly know as “road rage”) against another motor vehicle, an operator of a bicycle or a pedestrian, in 

addition to criminal sanctions (imprisonment for either 2, 3 or 4 years in State prison or not more than 1 year in a county 

jail plus a fine of not more than $10,000), is subject to the following licensing actions: first offense — suspension for 6 

months; and, second or subsequent offense — suspension for 1 year. However, either in lieu of or in addition to such 

licensing action, a person may be ordered to complete a court-approved course on either anger management or “road rage.” 

Veh. Code §13210 
27 SPEED 2005 

 Withdrawal Action: Three (3) or more offenses (within 12 months) — Revocation 

for 3 years. Veh. Code §13351(a)(2) and (b) 

Other: I. The court may order an offender to attend a traffic violator 

school. Veh. Code §42005 

II. Traffic Violation Points: An offender is assessed 2 points 

on the driving record. Veh. Code §12810(c) 

III. Impoundment: If the reckless driving offense involved 

motor vehicle operation at a speed ≥100 mph, the vehicle 

owned and driven by the offender may be impounded for a 

first offense not more than 6 months and 

for a second offense not more than 12 months. Veh. Code § 

23592 

IV. Special State/County Penalties (Fines).

Reckless Driving Causing Bodily Injury: Misdemeanor/Felony Veh. Code §§23104, 40000.15 and 

40000.24 and Penal Code §17 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense (misdemeanor) — 30 days to 6 months (in the 

county jail) Subsequent offense (misdemeanor/felony) — 30 

days to 6 months (in either the State prison50 or county jail) 

Veh. Code §23104(a) and (b) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): First or subsequent offense — $220 to $1,000 Veh. Code 

§23104(a) and (b) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Revocation51 Veh. Code §§13350(a)(3) and 13351(a)(2) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 1 year. Veh. Code §13350(c). Three (3) or more offenses 

(within 12 months) — revocation for 3 years. Veh. Code 

§13351(a)(2) and (b) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 1 year. Veh. Code §13350(c). Three (3) or more offenses 

(within 12 months) — revocation for 3 years. Veh. Code 

§13351(a)(2) and (b) 

Other: I. The court may order an offender to attend a traffic violator 

school. Veh. Code §42005 

II. Traffic Violation Points: An offender is assessed 2 points 

on the driving record. Veh. Code §12810(c) 

 

50Under Penal Code §17, a person, who is punished by imprisonment in the State prison, is considered to have committed a 

felony. 

51The offender is also subject to license suspension for not more than 6 months under Veh. Code §13201. 
SPEED 2005 28 

III. Special State/County Penalties (Fines).

Speed in Excess of 100 mph: Infraction Veh. Code §22348(b) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: N/A 

Fine ($ Range): First or subsequent offense — not more than $500 Veh. Code 

§§22348(b) and 42000.1. See III Other below. 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension. Veh. Code §§22348(b), 13200.5 and 13355(a) 

and (b) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — not more than 30 days. Veh. Code 

§§22348(b)(1) and 13200.5 Second offense (within 3 years) 

— 6 months. Veh. Code §§22348(b)(2) and 13355(a) Third 

or subsequent offense (within 5 years) — 1 year. Veh. Code 

§§22348(b)(3) and 13355(b) 

 Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. Note: For a first offense, suspension is discretionary. 

For second and subsequent offenses, suspension is mandatory. 

However, restricted driving privileges are available to allow 

an offender either to travel to and from work or to perform 

employment-related duties. Veh. Code §§22348(b)(1), 

13200.5 and 13355(a) and (b) 

Other: I. Traffic Violator School (discretionary) Veh. Code 

§42005 

 II. Traffic Violation Points: An offender is assessed 2 

points on the driving record. 

Veh. Code §12810(d)(1) 

III. If a fine for an infraction would impose a hardship on an 

offender or their family, the court may sentence such person 

perform community service in lieu of the “total fine” (i.e., the 

base fine, all assessments, penalties and additional monies). 

Penal Code §1209.5 

IV. Special State/County Penalties (Fines).
29 SPEED 2005 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators52: 

Grounds for Disqualification: No person may operate a CMV if he/she has either (1) been 

convicted of 2 "serious traffic violations"53 within a 3-year 

period or (2) been convicted of 3 such violations 

 within a 3-year period while driving a CMV. Veh. Code 

§§15306 and 15308 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days Veh. Code 

§§15306 and 15308 

 

52A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., were the towed vehicle weighs ≥10,000 lbs., is a trailer bus, is carrying a hazardous 

materials which require that the vehicle be placarded in under either the Vehicle or Health and Safety codes. Veh. Code 

§§12804.9(b), 15210(b)(1) and (k) and 15278(a)(4) 

53A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. Veh. Code 

§15210(i), 49 USC §31301(12) and 49 CFR 383.5 
SPEED 2005 30 

JURISDICTION: COLORADO

This chapter summarizes Colorado State statutes related to 

speed. 

General Reference: Colorado Revised Statutes and Code of Colorado Regulations 

(CCR) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is 

reasonable and prudent under the conditions then existing. 

§42-4-1101(1) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 65 mph54 on the interstate system55 §42-4-1101(2)(g) 

See Other below. 55 mph on an open highway not on the interstate system §42-

4-1101(2)(f) 

30 mph in a residence district56 §42-4-1101(2)(c) 

40 mph on open mountain highways §42-4-1101(2)(d) 

25 mph in a business district §42-4-1101(2)(b) 

20 mph on narrow, winding mountain highways or blind 

curves §42-4-1101(2)(a) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. State and local authorities, based on traffic investigations 

and surveys, may alter (increase or decrease) the above speed 

limits.57 Exceeding this speed limit is prima facie evidence 

that such speed was not reasonable. However, no posted 

speed limit may be >75 mph. §§42-4-1101(4) and (8)(d) and 

42-4-1102 

II. The State, based on traffic investigations and surveys, may 

establish maximum speed limits for elevated structures. §42-

4-1104(2) 

III. The State may establish highway maintenance, repair and 

construction zones. Such a zone must be posed with 

appropriate signs that designate that "double fines" are in 

effect for speeding violations that are committed in such 

zones. §42-4-614 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. A person shall not drive a motor vehicle at such a slow 

speed so as to impede or block the normal and reasonable 

forward movement of traffic. §42-4-1103(1) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §§42-4-1001(2) and 43-4-1103(3) 

 

54Based upon traffic investigations and surveys, the posted maximum limit may be increased to 75 mph. §42-4-1102 

55It is a per se violation (not a prima facie violation) to operate a motor vehicle above this speed limit. §42-4-1101(8) 56Operating a motor vehicle in excess of this speed limit is prima facie evidence that such speed was not reasonable or 

prudent under the conditions then existing. §42-4-1101(4) 

57Colorado law does not specifically state whether different highway speed limits may be established either for different 

types of vehicles, for various weather conditions or for different times of the day. However, the law provides that signs 

may be erected directing traffic to use certain lanes. §42-4-1007(1)(c) This provision can be used to limit the speed of 

certain vehicles (e.g., trucks) on specific highway lanes. 
31 SPEED 2005 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: The State or local authorities, based on traffic investigations 

and surveys, may post a minimum speed limit on any part of a 

highway. §42-4-1103(2) 

Other: I. 45 mph for all vehicles in the business of transporting trash 

§42-4-1101(2)(e) 

II. A person shall not drive a vehicle over any bridge or other 

elevated structure at an unsafe speed. §42-4-1104(1) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: Except as noted under Miscellaneous Sanctions, all speed law 

violations are Class A traffic infractions. §§42-4-603(5), 42-

4-1001(4), 42-4-1101(12), 42-4-1103(5), 42-4-1104(4) and 

42-4-1701(1) 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, Etc.):None

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): $15 to $100. §42-4-1701(3)(a)(I) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): Per Penalty Schedule58 §42-4-1701(4)(a)(I)(L) 

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: A person may be required to attend a course of instruction on 

traffic laws, hazardous driving situations and accident 

prevention. §42-4-1717 

 Other: Double Fines: The penalties and surcharges imposed for 

speeding offenses are doubled if the offense occurred in either 

(1) a maintenance, repair, or construction zone or (2) a 

“school zone.” §§42-4-613, 42-6-615, 42-4-1701(II) (A), 42-

4-1701(4)(c) and (d) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system59 §42-2-127(1) 

 

58The following fines and surcharges respectively are levied for speeding violations: fifteen dollars ($15) and $2 for going 

1 to 4 mph over either the reasonable and prudent speed or the 75 mph maximum limit; thirty-five dollars ($35) and $4 for 

going 5 to 9 mph over either the reasonable and prudent speed or the 75 maximum limit; fifty dollars ($50) and $6 for 

going 10 to 19 mph over either the reasonable and prudent speed or the 75 mph maximum limit; one hundred dollars ($100) 

and $12 for going 20 to 24 mph over either the reasonable and prudent speed or the 75 mph maximum limit; thirty-five 

dollars ($35) and $4 for failure to decrease speed when hazardous conditions exist; fifteen dollars ($15) and $2 for 

violating either the minimum speed law (§42-1-1103) or posted maximum speed limits on elevated structures (§42-4-1104). 

§42-4-1701(4)(a)(I)(L) 

59Point System: I. Point Accumulation. A driver's license is subject to suspension if the driver accumulates 12 points 

within 12 consecutive months or 18 points with 24 consecutive months. For provisional drivers, suspension would occur if 

they accumulate either 9 points within 12 consecutive months, 12 points within any 24 consecutive months or 14 points 

from the time the provisional license was issued. In the case of minor drivers, suspension would occur if they accumulate 5 

points within 12 consecutive months or 6 points from the time the license was issued. For chauffeurs, suspension would 

occur if they accumulate (while in the course of employment) either 16 points in 1 year, 24 points in 2 years or 28 points in 
SPEED 2005 32 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Not more than 1 year. §42-2-132(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None. A probationary license with restrictions may be issued 

§42-2-127(12) 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Driving 25 mph or more in excess of either the reasonable and 

prudent speed or the 75 mph maximum limit is a Class 2 

misdemeanor traffic offense. §42-4-1101(12). The sanctions 

for this offense are a jail term of 10 to 90 days and/or a fine of 

$10 to $300, plus the offender must pay restitution and may be 

required to perform some community service. §42-4-

1701(3)(a)(II) 

 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Speed Contest Class 2 misdemeanor traffic offense. §42-4-

1105(1) and (3) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): $10 to $300. §42-4-1701(3)(a)(II)(A) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension via a point system. §42-2-127. For this offense, 

a driver is assessed 12 points which results in suspension 

under the point system. §42-2-127(1)(a) and (5)(c) 

 

4 years. §42-2-127(1)(a). II. Point Schedule. The following points are assigned for speeding violations: one (1) point for 

going 5 to 9 mph over either the reasonable and prudent speed or 5 to 9 mph over the maximum lawful speed limit of 75 

mph; four (4) points for going 10 to 19 mph over either the reasonable and prudent speed or 10 to 19 mph over the 

maximum law speed limit of 75 mph; six (6) points for going 20 to 39 mph over either the reasonable and prudent speed or 

20 to 39 mph over the maximum law speed limit of 75 mph; twelve (12) points for going 40 mph or more over the 

reasonable and prudent speed or 40 mph or more over the maximum law speed limit of 75 mph; three (3) points are 

assessed for a failure to reduce speed when a special hazard exists. No points are assessed for going 1 to 4 mph over either 

the reasonable and prudent speed or 1 to 4 mph over the maximum law speed limit of 75 mph. §42-2-127(5)(f) Important: 

No points can be assessed against a person's driving record if the original citation was issued via an "automated vehicle 

identification system." §§42-2-127(5.5) and 42-4-110.5(3) 
33 SPEED 2005 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Not more than 1 year §42-2-132(1) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

 Withdrawal: None. A probationary license with restrictions may be issued 

§42-2-127(12) 

Other: A person may be required to attend a course of instruction on 

traffic laws, hazardous driving situations and accident 

prevention. §42-4-1717 

 Reckless Driving60: Class 2 misdemeanor traffic offense §42-4-1401 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — 10 to 90 days §42-4-1701(3)(a)(II)(A); 

second or subsequent offense — 10 days to 6 months. §42-4-

1401(2) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $10 to $300. §42-4-1701(3)(a)(II)(A) 

Second or subsequent offense — $50 to $1,000. §42-4-

1401(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system §42-2-127 For this offense, a 

driver is assessed 8 points. §42-2-127(1)(a) and (5)(d) 

Revocation for 3 reckless driving offense convictions within 

2 years §42-2-125(1)(f) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension for not more than 1 year. §42-2-132(1) 

Revocation for 1 year. §42-2-132(2) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension in not mandatory. A probationary license with 

restrictions may be issued. §42-2-127(12) 

Revocation is for a mandatory period of 1 year. §42-2-

132(2) 

Other: A person may be required to attend a course of instruction on 

traffic laws, hazardous driving situations and accident 

prevention. §42-4-1717 

 

60Operating a motor vehicle in either a wanton or a willful manner so as to disregard the safety of either persons or 

property. §42-4-1401(1) 

Vehicular Assault: A person who causes serious bodily injury to another person while operating a motor vehicle in a 

“reckless manner” commits a Class 5 felony: Imprisonment from 1 to 3 years (with 2 years mandatory parole) and a fine of 

$1,000 to $100,000. If the injured person was pregnant, the minimum imprisonment sentence must be midpoint of the 

sentence but more but not more than twice the maximum. §18-1.3-401(13) and 18-3-205(1)(a) and (b) 
SPEED 2005 34 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

 Careless Driving: (continued) 

 Careless Driving61: Class 2 misdemeanor traffic offense or, if there is bodily 

injury or death to another person, Class 1 

 Misdemeanor traffic offense. §42-4-1402(2) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Non injury/death-related offense — 10 to 90 days. 

Injury/Death-related offense — 10 days to 1 year. §42-4-

1701(3)(a)(II)(A) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Non injury/death-related offense — $10 to $300. 

Injury/Death-related offense — $100 to $1,000. §42-4-

1701(3)(a)(II)(A) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

 

 Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system. §42-2-127 For this offense, a 

driver is assessed 4 points. §42-2-127(1)(a) and (5)(e) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Not more than 1 year. §42-2-132(1) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. A probationary license with restrictions may be issued. 

§42-2-127(12) 

Other: A person may be required to attend a course of instruction on 

traffic laws, hazardous driving situations and accident 

prevention. §42-4-1717 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators62:

Grounds for Suspension: A person's CDL privilege is suspended, if while driving a 

CMV, he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious traffic 

violations”63 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 such 

violations within a 3-year period. §42-2-403(2) and 1 CCR 

204-12(6) and (7)(d) 

Period of Suspension: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §42-2-403(2) 

and 1 CCR 204-12(6) and (7)(d) 

 

61Operating a motor vehicle in a careless and imprudent manner without due regard for the width, grade, curves, corners, 

traffic and use of the streets and all other attendant circumstances. §42-4-1402(1) 62A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle to be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §42-2-

402(4)(a) 

63 A “serious traffic violation” includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §42-2-403(2), 1 

CCR 204-12(6) and (7)(d) and 49 CFR 383.5. 
35 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: CONNECTICUT

This chapter summarizes Connecticut State statutes related to 

speed. 

General References: Connecticut General Statutes 

Annotated and Regulations of Connecticut State Agencies 

(RCSA) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: Traveling Unreasonably Fast. No person shall drive a motor 

vehicle at a rate of speed greater than is reasonable, having 

regard to the width, traffic and use of highway, road or 

parking area, the intersection of streets and weather 

conditions. §14-218a(a) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 65 mph on multiple lane, limited access highways that are 

suitable for such a speed limit §§14-218a(b) and 14-219(a) 

55 mph upon other highways §14-219(a) 

See Other below. 50 mph for a school bus on a divided limited access highway 

§14-281a(a) 

40 mph for a school bus on all other highways §14-281a(a) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: The State Traffic Commission may determine speed limits64

on any highway, bridge, or parkway. §14-218a(a) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall operate a motor vehicle at such a slow 

speed as to impede or block the normal and reasonable 

movement of traffic. §14-220(a) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

highway. §14-230(b) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: 40 mph65 on a limited access divided highway. §14-220(a) 

Other: I. Driving such a rate of speed as to endanger the life of a 

vehicle occupant. §14-219(a) 

II. A person must obtain a special permit to operate a vehicle 

on a highway with a normal speed ≤15 mph while transporting 

3 or more persons for pleasure purposes (whether or not for 

hire). §14-221 

 

64"[D]iffering limits may be established for different types of vehicles...." In addition, any speed in excess of this limit is

prima facie evidence that such speed was not reasonable. §14-218a(a) Note: Local governments may establish speed 

limits on the streets under their jurisdiction. However, such speed limits must be approved by the State Traffic 

Commission. §14-218a(a) 

65This minimum speed does not apply either (1) to highway maintenance vehicles or (2) to certain types commercial 

vehicles on grades. §14-220(a) 
SPEED 2005 36

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are infractions. §§14-218a(c), 14-

219(b), 14-220(c), 14-221, 14-230(d) and 14-281a(c) 

Other: 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, Etc.): None 

 

Mandatory Minimum Term: N/A 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): I. Except for speed law offenses committed under §14-219, a 

fine of not more than $50. §14-296 

 II. For speed law offenses committed under §14-219, a fine of 

$35 to $90.66 §51-164m(c) 

III. $35 to $90 or $100 to $150 if the offender was operating a 

truck.67 For speeds (1) >65 mph but ≤70 mph on multiple line 

limited access highways with a speed limit of 65 mph, (2) >55 

mph but ≤70 mph on other multiple line limited access 

highways and (2) on any other highway >55 mph but ≤60 

mph. §§14-219(b) and 51-164m(c) and (d) 

IV. $100 to $150 or 150 to $200 if the offender was operating 

a truck. For speeds (1) >70 mph but ≤85 mph on multiple line 

limited access highways and (2) on any other highway >60 

mph but ≤85 mph. §§14-219(b) and (c) and 51-164m(d) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: Driver Retraining Program. I. A person, who commits 2 or 

more moving violations, may be required to complete a 

driver-retraining program. §14-111g 

 Other: Double Fines. If the speeding offenses occurred in a 

designated construction zone, the fine sanction is double the 

usual amount. §1 of Public Act 95-181 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): I. Suspension or Revocation — For offenses committed 

 under §14-219. §14-111b 

 

 

66For offenses committed under §14-219, the fine sanctions to be imposed are established by the superior court via a fine 

schedule. This schedule consists of a sliding fine scale which must be based upon the severity of the violation. §51-164m 

67A truck is defined as "every motor vehicle designed, used or maintained primarily for the transportation of property." 

§14-260n(4) 
37 SPEED 2005 

II. Suspension under either the point system or for Unsafe 

Vehicle Operation for other speedingviolations.68 §14-111 

and RCSA §§14-137- 82, 14-137a — 5 and 14-137a-8 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): I. For offenses committed under §14-219: first, second or 

Third offense — not more than 30 days (but only if the court 

recommends suspension or revocation). §14-111b(a)4th 

offense (within 2 years) — not more than 30 days. 5th 

offense (within 2 years) — not more than 60 days. 

 Subsequent offense (within 2 years) — 6 months. §14-

111b(b) and (c) 

II. For Other Speeding Violations: 30 days if the requisite 

number of points have been accumulated. 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: The above licensing actions may be mandatory. 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: N/A 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

 Racing on Highway69: Misdemeanor. §§14-224(c) and (g) and 53a-26(a) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense or subsequent offense (within 10 years) — not 

more than 1 year. §§14-1(a)(69) and 14-224(g) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $75 to $600. Subsequent offense (within 10 

years) — $100 to $1,000. §§14-1(a)(69) and 14-224(g) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension under either the point system or for Unsafe 

Vehicle Operation. §14-111 and RCSA §§14-137-82, 14-

137a — 5 and 14-137a-8 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: 30 days if the requisite number of points have been 

accumulated. 

 

68Point System. I. If a person accumulates 10 points within a 24-month period, his/her license is suspended for 30 days. 

After such suspension if a person again commits an offense (within 5 years from the beginning of the 30-day suspension 

period) that raises the point accumulation above 10, his/her license is suspended until the point total is ≤10. Points remain 

on the driver's record for 24 months from the date of assessment. II. The following points are assessed for speeding 

violations: One (1) point either for operating at an unreasonable speed under §14-218a, for violating §14-219 or for failing 

to drive in right-hand lane; two (2) points for driving at such a slow speed as to impede traffic under §14-220; four (4) 

points for racing on the highways under §14-224(c); and, five (5) points for operating a school bus at an excessive speed 

under §14-281a. RCSA §§14-137a-5, 14-137a — 6 and 14-137-8. History of Unsafe Operation. If a person has had 4 

unsafe moving traffic convictions within 2 years, his/her license is subject to a 30-day suspension. Such convictions 

include most speeding offenses and other rules of the road violations. §14-111(a) and RCSA §14-137-82 

69Under §14-224(c), "[n]o person shall operate a motor vehicle upon any public highway for a wager or for any race or for 

the purpose of making a speed contest." 
SPEED 2005 38

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: The above licensing actions may be mandatory. 

Other: N/A 

Reckless Driving:

70 Misdemeanor §§14-222 and 53a-26(a) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — Not more than 30 days. Second or 

subsequent offense — Not more than 1 year. §14-222(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $100 to $300. Second or subsequent offense 

— not more than $600. §14-222(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension. §14-111(b) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — 30 to 90 days. Subsequent offense — Not 

less than 90 days. §14-111(b) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — 30 days. Subsequent offense — 90 days. 

§14-111(b) Note: Given the wording in §14-111(b), these 

suspensions appear to be mandatory. 

Other: N/A 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators71: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

 driving such a vehicle he/she (1) commits 2 "serious traffic 

violations"72 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 such 

violations within a 3-year period. §14-44k(h) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days. Three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less 

than 120 days. §14-44k(h) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days. Three

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §14-44k(h) 

 

70Reckless driving is defined as operating a motor vehicle either (1) recklessly, having regard to the width, traffic and use of 

such highway, road , school property or parking area, the intersection of streets and the weather conditions, (2) at a rate of 

speed as to endanger the life of any person (other the vehicle operator), or (3) at a rate of speed >85 mph. §14-222(a) 71A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, is designed to transport 10 or more persons and 

is used to carry students under the age of 21, or is transporting hazardous materials which requires that the vehicle to be 

placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §14-1(a)(11) 72A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §14-1(a)(71) 
 

39 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: DELAWARE

General Reference: Delaware Code Annotated and Code of Delaware Regulations 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed 

greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions 

and without having regard to the actual and potential hazards 

then existing. Speed shall be so controlled as to avoid a 

collision. Title 21, §4168(a) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 65 mph on “all portions of Delaware 

State Route 1 located between the Red Lion Creek and the 

Appoquinimink River.” Any speed in excess of this limit is 

“absolute evidence” that the speed is “not reasonable or 

prudent and that it is unlawful.” Title 21, §4169(d) 

55 mph on four-lane roadways and divided highways. Title 

21, §4169(a)(1)e 

50 mph on two-lane roadways. Title 21, §4169(a)(1)d 

25 mph in either a business or residential district. Title 21, 

§4169(a)(1)a and (a)(1)b 

20 mph at school crossings where signs are in effect during 

specific time periods. Title 21, §4169(a)(1)c 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I Based on engineering studies and traffic investigations, the 

State Department of Transportation may increase or decrease 

the above speed limits on any particular portion of a 

highway.73 Title 21, §4169(b) 

II. Based on engineering studies and traffic investigations, 

local authorities, within their respective jurisdictions, may 

increase or decrease the above speed limits on any particular 

portion of a highway. However, the alteration of speed limits 

on State maintained highways requires the approval of the 

Department of Public Safety. Title 21, §4170 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. A person shall not operate a motor vehicle at such a slow 

speed as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of 

traffic. Title 21, §4171(a) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available 

 for traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand 

 curb or edge of the roadway. Title 21, §4114(b) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: A minimum safe speed limit on a highway (or a part thereof) 

may be established. Title 21, §4171(b) 

 

73This includes the establishment of different highway speed limits either (1) for different types of vehicles (e.g., persons 

who operate certain types of trucks may be required to drive these vehicles at a slower speed than those who operate other 

types of motor vehicles), (2) at different times of the day, (3) for various weather conditions or (4) for other factors bearing 

on safe speeds. Title 21, §4169(b) 
SPEED 2005 40 

Other: No person shall exceed the maximum posted speed limit 

which has been established for any bridge or elevated 

structure. Title 21, §4173(a) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are misdemeanors. Title 11, §233(c) 

and 

 Title 21, §§4168, 4169, 4170, 4171, 4173 and 4205(a) 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, Etc.): I. Sanctions for Violating Speed Rules Except as Noted Below: 

first offense — None Subsequent offense (within 12 months) 

— 10 to 30 days Title 21, §4205(a) 

II. Sanctions for Violating Maximum or Posted Maximum 

Speed Limits (Title 21, §4169 Violations): first offense — 

None Subsequent offense (within 24 months) — 10 to 30 days 

Title 21, §4169(c)(1) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): I. Sanctions for Violating Speed Rules Except as Noted 

Below: first offense — $25 to $115 Subsequent offense

(within 12 months) — $57.50 to $230 Title 21, §4205(a) 

II Sanctions for Violating Maximum or Posted Maximum 

Speed Limits (Title 21, §4169 Violations): first offense — 

$20 Subsequent offense (within 24 months) — $25 Title 21, 

§4169(c)(1) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: Defensive Driving Course 

 Other: Additional Fines: The following additional fines apply for 

exceeding the maximum or maximum posted speed limit 

under Title 21, §4169. 

I. Exceeding the speed limit by >5 mph but <16 mph — first 

offense — $1 per mph over the speed limit Subsequent 

offense — $2 per mph over the speed limit Title 21, 

§4169(c)(2) 

II. Exceeding the speed limit by >15 mph but <20 mph — 

first offense — $2 per mph over the speed limit Subsequent 

offense — $3 per mph over the speed limit 

 
 

41 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

 

 Other Penalties: Title 21, §4169(c)(3) 

 (continued) III. Exceeding the speed limit by >19 mph — first offense —

$3 per mph over the speed limit Subsequent offense — $4 

per mph over the speed limit Title 21, §4169(c)(4) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension74 Title 21, §§302 and 273375

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Not more than 1 year

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: The suspensions either under the point system or for excessive 

speeding appear to be mandatory. 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: N/A 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway76: Misdemeanor. Title 11, §233(c) and Title 21, §4172 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — 10 to 30 days. Subsequent offense — 15 to 

60 days. Title 21, §4172(d) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $25 to $200. Subsequent offense — $50 to 

$400. Title 21, §4172(d) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension. Title 21, §4172(d) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: First offense — not more than 6 months. Subsequent offense 

— 1 year. Title 21, §4172(d) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 

74Point System: I. If an offender accumulates 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 or >20 points, his/her license is suspended respectively for 

2, 4, 6, 8, 10 or 12 months. II. The following points are assigned for speeding and speed-related violations: one (1) to 9 

mph over the posted limit-2 points; 10 to 14 mph over the limit — 4 points; 15 to 19 mph over the limit — 5 points; ≥20 

mph over the limit — 5 points; reckless driving and aggressive driving — 6 points; other violations-2 points. III. If an 

offender completes a defensive driving course, the suspension period may be reduced by 1 or 2 months. However, the 

minimum period of suspension is 1 month. CDR 73-600-045 

Additional Suspensions: I. For exceeding the speed limit by ≥25 mph, a 2 month suspension plus a 1 month for each 

additional 5 mph over the initial 25 mph. II. For exceeding the speed limit by ≥90 mph, suspension for 1 year. CDR 73-

600-045 

75Title 21, §2733 authorizes the Department of Public Safety to suspend a person's license based on whether such person is 

either an habitual, reckless or negligent driver. 

76Title 21, §4172(a) prohibits a person from racing, speed competitions, speed contests, drag racing or acceleration contests, 

et al. Title 21, §4172(b) prohibits a person from accelerating or trying to accelerate a vehicle at a rate of speed which 

causes the drive wheels to spin or slip on the road surface. 
SPEED 2005 42 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Withdrawal: First offense — 1 month.77 CDR 73-600-045y Subsequent 

offense — 1 year78 Title 21, §4172(d) 

 Other: N/A 

 Reckless Driving: Misdemeanor. Title 11, §233(c) and Title 21, §4175(a) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — 10 to 30 days. Subsequent offense (within 3 

years) — 30 to 60 days. Title 21, §4175(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: First offense — none.

79 Subsequent offense (within 3 years) 

— 30 days. Title 21, §4175(2) 

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $100 to $300. Subsequent offense (within 3 

years) — $300 to $1,000. Title 21, §4175(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: First offense — $100.80 Subsequent offense (within 3 years) 

— $300. Title 21, §4175(2) 

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via the point system 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Not more than 1 year

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: The suspensions under the point system appear to be 

mandatory. 

Other: N/A 

Careless81 or Inattentive Driving82: Misdemeanor. Title 11, §233(c) and Title 21, §4176(a) and 

(b) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — none. Subsequent offense (within 3 years) — 

10 to 30 days. Title 21, §4176(c) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

 

77In the case of a wheel spinning offense, there is no licensing sanction for a first offense. However, the mandatory 1 year 

suspension applies for subsequent offenses. CDR 73-600-045 

78Given the language used in Title 21, §4172(d), this sanction appears to be mandatory. 

79The law provides that for a first offense the imprisonment sanction can be suspended. As a result, it would seem that the 

minimum incarceration sanction for subsequent offenses is mandatory. Title 21, §4175(b) 80Except for incarceration for a first offense, the law provides that the sanctions for reckless driving cannot be suspended. 

As a result, it would seem that the minimum fine sanction for either a first or subsequent offenses is mandatory. Title 21, 

§4175(b) 

81Careless Driving: Operating "a vehicle in a careless or imprudent manner, or without due regard for road, weather and 

traffic conditions then existing...." Title 21, §4176(a) 

82Inattentive Driving: Operating a vehicle while either failing "to give full time and attention to the operation of the 

vehicle" or failing "to maintain a proper lookout while operating the vehicle." Title 21, §4176(b) 
 

43 SPEED 2005 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $25 to $115. Subsequent offense (within 3 

years) — $50 to $230. Title 21, §4176(c) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via the point system 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Not more than 1 year

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: The suspensions under the point system appear to be 

mandatory. 

Other: 

Aggressive Driving83: Misdemeanor. Title 11, §233(c) and Title 21, §4175A 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — 10 to 30 days. Subsequent offense (within 3 

years) — 30 to 60 days. Title 21, §4175A(c) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: First offense — 10 days. Subsequent offense (within 3 years) 

— 30 days. The law provides that an offender’s sentence 

cannot be suspended. Title 21, §4175A(c) 

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $100 to $300. Subsequent offense (within 

 3 years) — $300 to $1,000. Title 21, §4175A(c) 

 First offense — $100. Subsequent offense (within 3 years) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: $300. The law provides that an offender’s sentence cannot be 

suspended. Title 21, §4175A(c) 

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): None. However, since an offender may be prosecuted for and 

convicted of the underlying offenses, he/she is subject to 

licensing action associated with violating such offenses. 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: N/A 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: N/A 

Other: I. An offender must complete a course of instruction on 

behavioral modification or attitudinal driving. Title 21, 

§4175A(d) 

 

91"No person shall drive any vehicle in an aggressive manner....” Title 21, §4175A(a) Aggressive Driving is defined as 

continuous conduct which violates three or more of the following rules-of-the-road: (1) Failing to obey a traffic-control 

device (Title 21, §4107); overtaking on the right (Title 21, §4117); failing to drive within a marked lane for traffic (Title 21, 

§4122); following too closely (Title 21, §4123); failing to yield the right-of-way to approaching traffic when turning left 

(Title 21, §4132); failing to yield to approaching traffic when entering or crossing a roadway (Title 21, §4133); failing to 

signal when turning or stopping (Title 21, §4155); failing to stop at stop signs or yield at yield signs (Title 21, §4164); 

overtaking and passing a stopped school bus with flashing lights (Title 21, §4166(d)); failing to obey the basic speed rule 

(Title 21, §4168); and, failing to a obey a posted speed limit (Title 21, §4169). Title 21, §4175A(b) 
SPEED 2005 44 

 II. An aggressive driving law violator may also be 

 prosecuted for and convicted of the underling offenses. Title 

21, §4175A(e) 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators84: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is subject to CDL disqualification if, while driving a 

CMV, he/she (1) commits 2 "serious traffic violations"85

within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 such violations within 

a 3-year period. Title 21 §2612(e) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days. Three

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. Title 21 

§2612(e) 

 Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days. Three

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. Title 21 

§2612(e) 

 

84A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. Title 21 §2603(6) 85A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. Title 21 

§2603(22) and 49 CFR 383.5 
 

45 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

This chapter summarizes D.C. statutes and regulations related 

to speed. 

General References: D.C. Code and Weil’s Code of D.C. 

Municipal Regulations (CDCR) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is 

reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having 

regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing. D.C. 

Code §50-2201.04(a) and CDCR 18-22-2200.3 

Statutory Speed Limit: 25 mph on all streets and highways unless otherwise 

designated D.C. Code §§50-2201.04(a) and CDCR 18-22 — 

2200.6 

15 mph in alleys. D.C. Code §50-2201.04(a) and CDCR 18-

22-2200.7 

15 mph in streets adjacent to school buildings or playgrounds 

when indicated by official sign, during recess or when 

children are going to or leaving school. D.C. Code §50-

2201.04(a) and CDCR 18-22-2200.8 and 18-22-2200.9 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: Based upon engineering and traffic investigations, the 

statutory speed limits may be increased or decreased on any 

highway. D.C. Code §50-2201.03 and CDCR 18-22-2200.2 

Note: D.C. law does not specifically state whether different 

highway speed limits may be established for different types of 

vehicles, for various weather conditions, or for different times 

of the day. 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a vehicle at such a slow speed as to 

impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of 

traffic. CDCR 18-22-2200.10 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. CDCR 18-22-2201.2 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: None 

Other: 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: Except as Noted Under Miscellaneous Sanctions, All speed 

law violations are Civil offenses (infractions). D.C. Code 

§50-2201.04 and CDCR 18-22-2200.11 

Other: 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 
SPEED 2005 46 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): None

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount (and Range): Violation of Basic Speed Rule — $25. CDCR 18-26-600.1 

Violation of the Minimum Speed Rule (Driving at Such a 

Slow Speed as to Impede or Block Traffic) — $15.86 CDCR 

18-26-2600.1 

Speed Limit Violations — $30 to $200. The fine imposed 

depends upon either the extent or type of the speeding 

offense.87 CDCR 18-26-2600.1 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: None 

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension or Revocation via the point system88 D.C. Code 

§40-302 and CDCR 18-3-303.1 and 18-3-303.3 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): I. Suspension may be from 2 to 90 days depending upon the 

seriousness of the offense. CDCR 18-3-306.1 

II. Revocation — 6 months. Note: For subsequent offenses, 

a longer revocation period is possible. However, such period 

must for a definite period of time. CDCR 18-3-306.4 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Criminal Offense. Persons are subject to criminal 

 prosecution if they commit a traffic infraction and have 

 already accumulated 12 or more points on their driving 

records within previous 18 months. Under such 

circumstances, they are subject to a jail term of not more than 

10 days and/or a fine of not more than $300. D.C. Code §50-

2302.03(a) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

 

86CDCR 18-26-2600.1 does not contain a specific fine sanction for a violation of CDCR 18-22-2201.3 (Failure to Drive in 

the Right Lane if Driving at Less than the Normal Speed). Note: Unless modified via regulations promulgated via the D.C. 

mayor, fines for traffic offenses are equal to the collateral or bond schedule established by the superior court for such 

offenses. D.C. Code §50-2301.05(a)(1) 

87For speed ≤10 mph over the limit, the fine is $30. For speed ≥11 mph but ≤15 mph over the limit, the fine is $50. For 

speed ≥16 mph but ≤20 mph over the limit, the fine is $100. For speed ≥21 mph but ≤25 mph over the limit, the fine is 

$150. For speed >25 mph over the limit, the fine is $200. CDCR 18-26-2600.1 

88Point System: Under the point system, a person's license can either be suspended if he/she accumulates 8 points (16 

points for drivers who operate motor vehicles for employment purposes) or be revoked if 12 points are accumulated. The 

following points are assessed for speeding and other speed-related traffic law violations: Reckless driving-12 points; 

speeding in excess of the posted speed limit by 21 mph or more — 5 points; speeding in excess of the posted speed by 16 to 

20 mph — 4 points; and speeding in excess of the posted speed limit by 11 to 15 mph — 3 points. CDCR 18-3-303.2(b), (c) 

and (d), 18-3-303.3, 18-3-303.4 and 18-3-303.5 
 

47 SPEED 2005 

Exceeding Speed Limit by 30 mph: 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 90 days. CDCR 18-22-32200.12 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $300. CDCR 18-22-2200.12 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension or Revocation.89 D.C. Code §50-1403.01 and 

CDCR 18 — 3 — 302.3 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: I. Suspension-2 to 90 days depending upon the seriousness of 

the offense. CDCR 18-3-306.1 

II. Revocation — 6 months. Note: For subsequent offenses, 

a longer revocation period is possible. However, such period 

must be for a definite period of time. CDCR 18-3-306.4 

III. Five (5) points are assessed against a person's driving 

record. CDCR 18-3-303.2(f) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: None

Other: Assessment. Serious traffic law offenders are required to pay 

an assessment of $50 (mandatory) to $250 that is used to 

finance the Crime Victim’s Compensation Fund. D.C. Code 

§4-516(a) and Parrish v. District of Columbia, 718 A.2d 133 

(D.C. 1998) 

Reckless Driving90: 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — not more than 3 months. Subsequent offense

(within 2 years) — not more than 1 year. D.C. Code §50-

2201.04(c) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — not more than $250. Subsequent offense

(within 2 years) — not more than $1,000. D.C. Code §50-

2201.04(c) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Reckless Driving: (continued) 

Type of Licensing Action 

 

89The licensing agency has discretionary authority to either suspend or revoke a person's license for this offense. CDCR 

18-3-302.3 

77Full Time and Attention: A person commits a moving traffic violation if he/she does not “give full time and attention to 

the operating of the vehicle.” CDCR 18-22-2213.4. There is a civil fine of $25 for a violation of this provision. CDCR 18-

26-2600.1. A person is also subject to licensing action via the point system. See Footnote No. 3. 
SPEED 2005 48 

(Susp/Rev): Revocation. D.C. Code §50-1403.01 and CDCR 18-3-

301.1(d) 

 Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — 6 months. Second offense — 1 year. 

Subsequent offense — 2 years. D.C. Code §50-1403.01(b) 

and CDCR 18-3-306.5 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — 6 months. Second offense — 1 year. 

Subsequent offense — 2 years. D.C. Code §50-1403.01(b) 

and CDCR 18-3-306.5 

Other: I. A person is also assessed 12 points against his/her driving 

record. See Footnote No. 3. CDCR 18-3-303.2(j) 

II. Limited Registration Suspension. The registrations of all 

vehicles owned by a person who has been convicted of 

reckless driving involving a personal injury must be 

suspended until the offender gives and maintains proof of 

financial responsibility. D.C. Code §§50-1301.37(a) and 50-

1301.38 

III. Assessment. Serious traffic law offenders are required to 

pay an assessment of $50 (mandatory) to $250 which is used 

to finance the Crime Victim’s Compensation Fund. D.C. 

Code §4-516(a) and Parrish v. District of Columbia, 718 A.2d 

133 (D.C. 1998) 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators91: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she commits 2 or more "serious 

traffic violations"92 within a 3-year period. D.C. Code §50-

406(a)(4) and CDCR 18-13-1306.1(d) and 18-13-1306.3 

Period of Disqualification93: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days. Three

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. CDCR 18-

13-1306.8 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days. Three

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. CDCR 18-

13-1306.8 

 

91A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport more than 15 persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. D.C. Code §50-

401(3) 

92The term "serious traffic violation" is includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. CDCR 

18-13-1306.3(a) and (b) 

80Under D.C. Code §50-406(b), these disqualification (suspension) periods could be increased to 1 year for a first violation 

and up to life for subsequent ones. 
 

49 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: FLORIDA

This chapter summarizes Florida State statutes related to speed. 

General References: Florida Statutes Annotated and Florida Administrative Code 

(FAC) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is 

reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having 

regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing. 

§316.183(1) and (4) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 70 mph on limited access highways.94 §316.187(2)(a) 

See Other below. 55 mph in all locations except as noted. §316.183(2) 

30 mph95 in business and residence districts. §§316.183(2) 

and 316.189(2)(a) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. After engineering and traffic investigations, the State or 

local governments (within their jurisdictions) may increase or 

decrease the statutory speed limit on a highway.96 However, 

the State cannot establish a speed limit >70 mph and local 

jurisdictions cannot establish a maximum speed limit >60 

mph. §316.187(1) and (2)(c) and 316.189(1) and (2)(b) 

II. Under separate statutory authority, the State Department of 

Transportation or a local government may reduce the speed 

limits otherwise proscribed by law on any highway (or part 

thereof) or bridge. Such action must be based on the need to 

avoid damage to such highway or bridge due to either its 

design or to weather-related conditions. §316.555. Note: 

Under such authority, it may be possible to provide for 

different speeds for different types of vehicles. 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed 

as to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of 

traffic. §316.183(5) 

II. The minimum speed limit on Interstate and Defense 

Highways, with at lest 4 lanes, is 40 mph. §316.183(2) 

III. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available 

for traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or 

edge of the roadway. §316.081(2) 

 

94Other provisions of law establish the maximum speed limit of 65 mph on any other highway which has 4 lanes that are 

divided by a median strip and which are located outside of urban areas with populations ≥5,000. §316.187(2)(b) 95After an investigation, local authorities may establish a maximum speed limit of 20 mph or 25 mph in residence districts. 

§316.183 

96The State Department of Transportation or a local government may “regulate” any class or size of motor vehicle, trailer or 

semi-trailer upon any part of a highway under their respective jurisdictions when in their judgments such action is needed 

for public safety due to “traffic density” or “intensive use” of such highway. §316.555. Note: Such “regulation” could 

include the establishment of special speed limits for certain classes or types of vehicles on certain segments of a highway. 
SPEED 2005 50 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation 

(continued) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: I. After engineering and traffic investigations, the State or 

local governments (within their jurisdictions) may establish a 

minimum speed limit for a highway. §§316.187(2)(d) and 

316.189(3) Note: via signs, “specified traffic” (i.e. slower 

moving traffic) may be directed to use designated lanes. 

§316.089(3) 

II. Based on safety consideration, the State or a local 

government may prohibit the operation of “low speed 

vehicles” on the roads under their respective jurisdictions. 

§316.2122(5). A “low speed vehicle” is defined as “any fourwheeled electric vehicle whose top speed is greater then 20 

miles per hour but not greater than 25 miles per hour....” 

§320.01(42) 

Other: I. No school bus shall exceed the posted speed limit or 55 

mph. §316.183(3) 

II. No person shall exceed the posted speed limit in a work 

zone. §316.183(6) 

III. No person shall exceed the posted speed limit in a school 

zone.97 §316.1895(10) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are noncriminal traffic infractions 

(Moving Violations). §§316.183(7), 316.187(3), 316.189(4), 

316.1895(9), 316.655(1), 318.13(3) and 318.14(1) 

Other: 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, Etc.): None

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): I. Exceeding the Speed Limit where the offense is not 

adjudicated-Civil Penalty98 — $25 to $250 depending upon 

the extent of the violation99 §318.18(3)(b) 

 

97A school zone speed limit cannot be more than 20 mph. Such limit may only be in force 30 minutes before, during and 

after students are arriving or leaving a regularly scheduled school session. §316.1895(5) 

98i.e., this sanction is imposed on violators who elect not have a hearing. 

99I. For exceeding the speed limit from 1 to 5 mph, a warning is issued. For exceeding the speed limit from 6 to 9 mph, 

the fine is $25. For exceeding the speed limit from 10 to 14 mph, the fine is $100. For exceeding the speed limit from 15 

to 19 mph, the fine is $125. For exceeding the speed limit from 20 to 29 mph, the fine is $150. And, for exceeding the 

speed limit by 30 mph, the fine is $250. §318.18(3)(b). II. For exceeding the speed limit in a school zone ≤5mph, the fine 

is $50. Otherwise, for exceeding the speed limit in a school zone, the assessed fine is double the amount indicated in I. 

§318.18(3)(c) III. For exceeding the speed limit in a construction zone (except for speeds ≤5 mph over the posted speed 

limit), the assessed fine is double the amount indicated in I. §318.18(3)(d) 
 

51 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation

(continued) 

II. Other speed law violations where the offense is not 

adjudicated-Civil Penalty — $60 §318.18(3)(a) 

III. Any speed law Violation where the offender elects 

adjudication100 — not more than $500. However, the fine limit 

is not more than $1,000 in situations where there was unlawful 

speeding in either a school or construction zone. §318.14(5) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

 

 Other Penalties: 

Traffic School: A person may be required to attend a driver 

improvement school.101 §318.14(5) and (9) 

 Other: N/A 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

(Susp/Rev): Suspension either via the point system102 or 

Suspension/Revocation via the courts103 §§316.655(2) and 

322.27(3) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

(Days, Months, Years, etc.): 30 days to 1 year depending upon the number of points that 

have been accumulated. §322.27(3)(a), (b) and (c) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None104

 

100Sanction or sanctions that can be imposed if an offender elects to adjudicate the traffic offense. §318.14(5) 101I. A person who commits a non-criminal traffic infraction may, in lieu of a court appearance, elect to attend a driver 

improvement course. If such occurs, adjudication is withheld and points cannot be assessed against the person's driving 

record. In addition, the civil penalty imposed under §318.18(3) must be reduced by 18 percent. §318.14(9). II. If an 

offender elects to adjudicate the traffic infraction, he/she still may be ordered to attend such a course. §318.14(5) 102Point System: I. A person's license is suspended respectively for either (1) not more than 30 days, (2) not more than 3 

months or (3) not more than 1 year if he/she accumulates either (1) 12 points within 12 months, (2) 18 points within 18 

months, or (3) 24 points within 36 months. §322.27(3)(a), (b) and (c). II. The following points are assessed for speedrelated moving traffic violations: 3 points for exceeding the speed limit by <15 mph; 4 points for exceeding the speed limit 

by >15 mph; 6 points for unlawful speed that results in an accident; 4 points for reckless driving; 3 points for careless 

driving; and 3 points for racing on the highways; §322.27(3)(d)(1), (3), (5)(a) and (b), and (6) 

103In addition to any action that may be taken by the licensing agency, the court has the authority to suspend or revoke a 

driver's license if the court determines that there exists a need to protect persons who use the highways. In determining 

whether to take such action, the court considers among other things the extent or nature of the violation and whether, as a 

result of the violation there was a death, personal injury or property damage. §316.655(2). Note: This provision does not 

provide for specific license suspension or revocation periods. However, under §322.28(1), the licensing agency can only 

suspend or revoke a license for 1 year. In addition, the licensing agency may be able to issue driving privileges for 

employment purposes under §322.271. 

104The licensing agency may modify either a suspension or revocation order and allow an offender to operate a motor 

vehicle for employment purposes. §322.271 and FAC §15A-1.019 
SPEED 2005 52 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

Not Included Elsewhere: If a speeding offense caused the death of another person, the 

offender may be required to perform 120 hours of community 

service. §§316.027(4) and 318.14(1) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway 105: Misdemeanor in the Second degree. A subsequent violation 

within 5 years is a misdemeanor in the First degree. 

§316.191(2) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — not more than 60 days. Subsequent offenses

(within 5 years) — not more than 1 year. §§316-191(2)(a) and 

(b) and 775.082(4) (a) and (b) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $250 to $500. Subsequent offenses (within 5 

years) — $500 to $1,000. §§316.191(2)(a) and 775.083 (1) (d) 

and (e). 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: First offense — $250. Subsequent offenses (within 5 years) — 

$500. §§316.191(2)(a) and 775.083 (1) (d) and (e). 

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

Type of Action: Revocation via the courts. §§316.191(2)(a) and 316.655(2) 

Length of Term of 

Licensing Withdrawal: First offense — 1 year. Subsequent offenses (within 5 years) 

— 2 years. §316.191(2)(a) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

Withdrawal: First offense — 1 year. Subsequent offenses (within 5 years) 

— 2 years. §316.191(2)(a) 

Other: I. A person may be required to attend a driver improvement 

school. §§316.655(3) and 318.14(5) and (9) . 

 II. If the offense caused the death of another person, the 

 offender may be required to perform 120 hours of 

 community service. §§ 316.027(4) and 318.14(1) 

III. The court may impound or immobilize the vehicle used in 

the offense. §316.191(3) 

Reckless Driving106: Misdemeanor (Moving Violation). §§316.192, 316.655(1), 

318.13(3), 775.08(2) and 775.081(2) Note: 

 

105"No person shall drive any vehicle in any race, speed competition or contest, drag race or acceleration contest, test of 

physical endurance, exhibition of speed or acceleration, or for the purpose of making a speed record" on a highway or 

street. §316.191(2)(a) 

106 I. A person commits a first degree misdemeanor if the reckless driving offense resulted in damage to the property or 

person of another. The sanctions for this offense are imprisonment for not more than 1 year and a fine of not more than 

$1,000. License action is the same as for any reckless driving offense.§§316.191(2)(a), 775.082(4)(a) and 775.083(1)(d). 

II. A person commits a third degree felony if the reckless driving offense resulted in serious bodily injury to another person. 

The sanctions for this offense are imprisonment for not more than 5 years and a fine of not more than $5,000. License 

action is the same as for any reckless driving offense. §§316.192(3)(c)(2), 775.082(3)(d) and 775.083(1)(c) III.A person 

commits a second degree felony if he/she attempts to elude a law enforcement officer who is operating a marked patrol 

vehicle with siren and lights activated and the person drives either (1) at a high speed or (2) “in any manner which 

demonstrates a wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property....” The sanctions for this offense are imprisonment 

for not more than 15 years, a fine of not more than $10,000 and license revocation for not more than 1 year. §§316.1935(3) 

and (5), 775.082(3)(c) and 775.083(1)(b) 
 

53 SPEED 2005 

Reckless Driving 

(continued) The law is not clear as to whether this is either first or second 

degree misdemeanor. 

 Sanction: 

 Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — not more than 90 days. Subsequent offense 

— not more than 6 months. §316.192(2)(a) and (b) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None 

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $25 to $500. Subsequent offense — $50 to 

$1,000. §316.192(2)(a) and (b) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None 

 

 Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via the point system or Suspension/Revocation 

via the courts §§316.655(2) and 322.27(3) Third offense —

revocation §322.26(6) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 30 days to 1 year depending upon the number of points that 

have been accumulated. §322.27(3)(a), (b) and (c) Third 

offense — 1 year §322.28(1) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None

Other: I. First or subsequent offense — A fee of $5 is imposed for the 

purpose of funding the Emergency Medical Services Trust 

Fund. §316.192(4) 

II. First or subsequent offense — If alcohol or 

chemical/controlled substances contributed to the violation, 

the offender must complete an “psychosocial evaluation” as 

proved under §316.193(5). The offender 

 may be referred to a substance abuse treatment program. 

§316.192(5) 

Careless Driving107: noncriminal traffic infraction (Moving Violation). §§316.1925, 

316.655(1), 318.13(3) and 318.14(1) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

Fine ($ Range): I. For Non-Adjudication Offenses-Civil Penalty5

 — $60. 

§318.18(3)(a) See Footnote No. 8. 

 

107A person shall operate a vehicle "in a careful and prudent manner, having regard for the width, grade, curves, corners, 

traffic, and all other attendant circumstances, so as not to endanger the life, limb, or property of any person." §316.1925(1)
SPEED 2005 54 

II. For Adjudication Offenses7 — not more than $500. 

§318.14(5) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via the point system or Suspension/Revocation 

via the courts. §§316.655(2) and 322.27(3) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 30 days to 1 year depending upon the number of points that 

have been accumulated. §322.27(3)(a), (b) and (c) Third 

offense — 1 year. §322.28(1) 

Mandatory Term of License 

Withdrawal Action: None

 Other: I. A person may be required to attend a driver improvement 

school. §§316.655(3) and 318.14(5) and (9). 

II. If the offense caused the death of another person, the 

offender may be required to perform 120 hours of community 

service. §§316.027(4) and 318.14(1) 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators108: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 

 "serious traffic violations"109 within a 3 year period or 

 (2) commits 3 such violations within a 3 year period. 

§322.61(1) and (2) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days. Three

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §322.61(1) 

and (2) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days. Three

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §322.61(1) 

and (2) 

 

108A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport more than 15 persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §322.01(8) 109A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph, reckless driving or careless driving. 

§322.61(1)(b), (c) and (e) 
55 SPEED 2005

JURISDICTION: GEORGIA

General Reference: Code of Georgia Annotated (Code of 1981) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is 

reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having 

regard for the actual and potential hazards than existing. §40-

6-180 

Statutory Speed Limit: 70 mph110 on interstate system or on physically divided 

highways 

 outside of urban areas with a population ≥50,000. §40-6-

181(b)(2) 

65 mph on the interstate system inside urban areas with a 

population ≥50,000. §40-6-181(b)(3) 

65 mph on State divided highways without full access control. 

§40-6-181(b)(4) 

55 mph on other locations. §40-6-181(b)(5) 

30 mph in urban or residential district. §40-6-181(b)(1) 

35 mph on unpaved county road. §40-6-181(b)(1.1) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, either the 

State Commissioner of Public Safety or the Commissioner of 

Transportation may lower the above speed limits on any 

highway.111 §40-6-182 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, local 

governments within their jurisdictions may lower the 

maximum speed limit on any highway. However, such limit 

shall neither be less than 30 mph outside an urban or 

residential district nor less than 25 mph within such districts. 

§40-6-183(a) 

III. The State or local government within its jurisdiction may 

establish a maximum speed limit in a construction zone. §40-

6-188 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed 

as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic. 

§40-6-184(a)(1) 

II. Except when turning left, a person shall not drive in the left 

lane of a highway with at least 4 lanes at less than the 

maximum speed limit.112 §40-6-184(a)(2) 

 

110Provided speed limit signs designating this speed limit have been posted on the highway. 111This includes the establishment of different highway speed limits either (1) at different times of the day, (2) for various 

weather conditions or (3) for other factors bearing on safe speeds. §40-6-182. Note: The law does not specifically allow 

State authorities to establish different speed limits for different types of vehicles. 112This only applies if the diver is aware that he/she is being overtaken in the left lane by vehicles traveling at a greater rate

of speed. 
SPEED 2005 56

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

III. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §40-6-40(b) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State or 

local government within its jurisdiction may establish a 

minimum speed limit on any highway. §40-6-184(b). Note: 

Via signs, “specified traffic” (e.g., slower moving traffic, 

buses or trucks) may be directed to use designated lanes. §40-

6-48(4) 

Other: A school bus shall not be operated at a speed >40 mph or >55 

mph on interstate/defense highway system while transporting 

children to and from school activities.113 §40-6-160(a) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: Except as noted, all speed law violations are misdemeanors. 

§40-6-1(a). 

Other: Speeding in a Construction Zone is a misdemeanor of a High 

and Aggravated Nature. §40-6-188(e) 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): Speed Law violations — none §40-6-1(b) 

 Speeding in a Construction Zone — not more than 12 months 

§40-6-188(c) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Speed Law violations-≥5 but ≤10 mph over limit — $25; >10 

but ≤14 mph over limit — $100; >14 but <19 mph over limit

— $125; ≥19 but<24 mph over limit — $150; ≥24 but <34 

mph over limit — $500.

114 §40-6-1(b) 

Speeding in a Construction Zone — $100 to $2,0005

 §40-6-

188(c) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 

113There is an exception. A school bus may be operated on public roads or interstate highways at a speed >55 mph 

provided the vehicle is transporting children to and from an event or school activities and is not loading or unloading 

children during the transportation. §40-6-160(b) 

114An additional fine equal to 5 percent of the original fine is imposed and deposited into the Peace Officer's Annuity and 

Benefit Fund. §15-21-131 
57 SPEED 2005

 Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

 (continued) 

 Traffic School: A driver may be required to attend a driver improvement 

course.115 §40-5-57(c)(1)(C) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): (continued) Suspension via the point system116 §40-5-57 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): (continued) Persons Under 21 Years Old: A person <21 years old who is 

convicted of a speeding offense with an assigned point value 

of ≥4 points is subject to suspension. §40-5-57.1(a), (b)(1) 

and (d) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): 1 to 5 years depending on the number of points that have been 

accumulated. §40-5-57(d) 

Persons Under 21 Years Old who are subject to suspension: 

first offense — 6 months; second or subsequent offense —

12 months. A person's license cannot be reinstated until 

he/she has completed a defensive driver program. §40-5-

57.1(a), (b)(1) and (d) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term of Withdrawal: 2 years upon 

reaching the requisite point assessment for the third time 

within 5 years117 §40-5-57(d)(3) 

Persons Under 21 Years Old who are subject to revocation. 

First offense — 6 months; second or subsequent offense — 

12 months. §40-5-57.1(a), (b)(1) and (d) 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: N/A 

 

115If a driver attends a driver improvement course after the issuance of the citation but before he/she makes a court 

appearance, the court shall reduce the fine by 20 percent and the licensing agency shall assess no points against the violator. 

This procedure is allowed only once in 5 years. §40-5-57(c)(1)(C) 

116Point System: I. A person's license is subject to suspension if he/she accumulates 15 or more points within a 24 month 

period. At the end of the suspension period, the point count is reduced to zero. Upon reaching the requisite point 

assessment for the first time, the license suspension is for 1 year. Upon reaching the requisite point assessment for the 

second time within 5 years, the license suspension is for 3 years. Upon reaching the requisite point assessment for the third 

time within 5 years, the license suspension is for 5 years; 2 years of this suspension period are mandatory. §40-5-

57(c)(1)(B) and (d) II. The following points are assessed for speeding and speed-related violations: Aggressive driving — 

6 points; reckless driving — 4 points; exceeding the speed by >14 mph but <19 mph-2 points; exceeding the speed by >19 

mph but <24 mph — 3 points; exceeding the speed by >24 mph but <34 mph — 4 points; exceeding the speed by >34 mph 

— 6 points; §40-5-57(c)(1)(A). III. A person >18 years old is subject to the following license suspensions if he/she 

accumulates four or more points within 12 months: For a first suspension — 6 months; for a 2ne suspension-12 months. 

§40-5-57.1(a) and (b). 

117I. Hardship License: A person may be issued a limited license for the purpose of (1) going to and from a place of 

employment or performing employment duties, (2) receiving medical care or obtaining medications, or (3) attending 

educational institutions, alcohol/drug abuse support groups or a court ordered driver improvement course. §40-5-64. II. 

Early License Reinstatement: For a license suspension based upon reaching the requisite point assessment for the first 

time, the license may be reinstated immediately when the person completes a driver improvement course, or in 120 days 

upon completion of a defensive driving course. For a license suspension based upon reaching the requisite point 

assessment for the second time within 5 years, the license may be reinstated 120 days after the suspension date upon the 

completion of an "advanced" driver improvement course. §40-5-84 
SPEED 2005 58

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway118: Misdemeanor. §40-6-186(b) and (c) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 12 months. §17-10-3(a)(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. §17-10-3(a)(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None 

 

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension. §§40-5-54(a)(4) and 40-6-186(c). Suspension

via the point system. §40-5-57 

Persons Under 21 Years Old: Suspension. §40-5-57.1(a), 

(b)(1) and (d) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: 12 months. §40-6-186(c). Via the point system 1 to 5 years

depending on the number of points that have been 

accumulated. §40-5-57(d) 

 Persons Under 21 Years Old: first offense — 6 months. 

Second or subsequent offense — 12 months. A person's 

license cannot be reinstated until he/she has completed a 

defensive driver program. §40-5-57.1(a), (b)(1) and (d) 

 Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: 12 months.119 If via the point system-2 years upon reaching 

the requisite point assessment for the third time within 5 years. 

§40-5-57(d)(3) 

Persons Under 21 Years Old: first offense — 6 months. 

Second or subsequent offense — 12 months. §40-5-57.1(a), 

(b)(1) and (d) 

Other: A driver may be required to attend a driver improvement 

course. §40-5-57(c)(1)(C) 

 Reckless Driving120: Misdemeanor. §40-6-390(a) and (b) 

 

118Racing on the highways includes "any race, speed competition or contest, drag race or acceleration contest, test of 

physical endurance, exhibition of speed or acceleration, or for the purpose of making a speed record...." §40-6-186(b) 119I. Hardship License: A person may be issued a limited license for the purpose of either (1) going to and from a place 

of employment or performing employment duties, (2) receiving medical care or obtaining medications, or (3) attending 

educational institutions, alcohol/drug abuse support groups or a court ordered driver improvement course. §40-5-64. II. 

Early License Reinstatement: For a license suspension based upon a first offense, the license may be reinstated after 120 

days upon the completion of a driver improvement course. And, for a license suspension based upon a second offense, the 

license may be reinstated after 120 days upon the completion of an "advanced" driver improvement course. §40-5-84(a) 

and (b) 

120Under a separate statute, a person is required to “exercise due care in operating a motor vehicle....” A violation of this 

requirement is a misdemeanor for which a person is subject to a jail term of not more than 12 months and/or a fine of not 

more than $1,000. In addition, they may be subject to license suspension via the point system; see Footnote No. 7. §§17-

10-3(a)(1), 40-5-57, 40 — 6 — 1 and 40-6-241 
59 SPEED 2005

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 12 months. §40-6-390(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. §40-6-390(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via the point system §40-5-57 

Persons Under 21 Years Old. Suspension. §40-5-57.1(a), 

(b)(1 

 Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 1 to 5 years depending on the number of points that are 

accumulated. §40-5-57(d) 

Persons Under 21 Years Old: first offense — 6 months. 

Second or subsequent offense — 12 months. A person's 

license cannot be reinstated until he/she has completed a 

defensive driver program. §40-5-57.1(a), (b)(1) and (d) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Two years upon reaching the requisite point assessment for 

the third time within 5 years. §40-5-57(d)(3) 

 Persons Under 21 Years Old: first offense — 6 months. 

Second or subsequent offense — 12 months. §40-5-57.1(a), 

(b)(1) and (d) 

 Other: A driver may be required to attend a driver improvement 

course. §40-5-57(c)(1)(C) 

Driving in Circular or Zigzag Course

(Laying Drags)121: Misdemeanor. §40-6-251(a) and (d) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 12 months. §17-10-3(a)(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. §17-10-3(a)(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action (Susp/Rev): Suspension via the point system. §40-5-57 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 1 to 5 years depending on the number of points accumulated. 

§40-5-57(d) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 

121This offense is defined as operating a "vehicle upon the streets, highways ... in such a manner as to create a danger to 

persons or property by intentionally and unnecessarily causing the vehicle to move in a zigzag or circular course or to 

gyrate or spin around,...." §40-6-251(a) 
SPEED 2005 60

 Withdrawal Action: Two years upon reaching the requisite point assessment for 

the third time within 5 years. §40-5-57(d)(3) 

Other: A driver may be required to attend a driver improvement 

course. §40-5-57(c)(1)(C) 

Aggressive Driving122: Misdemeanor of a High and Aggravated Nature. §40-6-397(a) 

and (b) 

 Sanction: 

 Criminal: 

 Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 12 months. §17-10-4(a) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

 Fine ($Range): Not more than $5,000. §17-10-4(a) 

 Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

 Administrative Licensing Actions: 

 Type of Licensing Action (Susp/Rev): Suspension via the point system. §40-5-57 

 Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 1 to 5 years depending on the number of points accumulated. 

§40-5-57(d) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Two years upon reaching the requisite point assessment for 

the third time within 5 years. §40-5-57(d)(3) 

Other: A driver may be required to attend a driver improvement 

course. §40-5-57(c)(1)(C) 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators123: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if, while 

driving such a vehicle, he/she (1) commits 2 "serious traffic 

violations"124 within a 3-year period or 

 (2) commits 3 such violations within a 3-year period. §40-5-

151(f) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days. Three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less 

than 120 days. §40-5-151(f) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days. Three

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §40-5-151(f) 

 

122Aggressive driving is defined as operating a “motor vehicle with the intent to annoy, harass, molest, intimidate, injure, or 

obstruct another person, including without limitation violating Code Section 40-6-42 ( overtaking and passing), 40-6-48 

(driving on roadways laned for traffic), 40-6-49 (following too closely), 40-6-123 (turning movements; signals required on 

turning; changing lanes, slowing or stopping), 40-6-184 (impeding traffic; minimum speed in left-hand lanes), 40-6-312 

(operating motorcycle on roadway laned for traffic), or 40-6-390 (reckless driving) with such intent.” §40-6-397(a) 123A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle to be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §40-5-142(7) 124A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §40-5-142(22) 
 

61 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: HAWAII

General Reference: Hawaii Revised Statutes 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: A person shall not drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is 

reasonable and prudent and having regard to the actual and 

potential hazards and conditions then existing. §§291C-101 

and 291C-198(a) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 35 mph (58 kilometers per hour) for Mopeds125 §291C-198(b) 

See Other below. 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. The State Director of Transportation may place signs 

establishing the maximum speed limit on any highway or 

“construction area” under the director's jurisdiction.126 

§291C-102(b) 

II. Local governments may establish maximum speed limits 

on streets, highways or “construction areas” under their 

jurisdiction. §291C-163(a)(5), (10), (15) and (23) 

Minimum Speed Limit: A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic shall 

drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §291C-41(b) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: I. The Director of Transportation may place signs establishing 

the minimum speed limit on any highway. §291C-102(b) 

II. Local governments may establish minimum speed limits on 

streets and highways under their jurisdiction. §291C163(a)(5), (10), (15) and (23) 

Other: I. A vehicle or combination of vehicles designed to operate at 

speed ≤25 mph may be required to display a sign indicating 

that it is a slow moving vehicle. §291C-130 

 II. Bicycles and mopeds not traveling at the normal rate of 

speed "shall ride as near to the right side of the 

roadway as practicable...." §§291C-145(a) and 291C-196(a) 

 

125Notwithstanding this speed limit, after April 23, 1998, mopeds offered for sale in the State of Hawaii must meet the 

following engine and speed specifications: A moped engine can only have a “two horsepower (one thousand four hundred 

ninety-two watts) or less and, if it is a combustion engine, a maximum piston or rotor displacement of 3.05 cubic inches 

(fifty cubic centimeters) and which will propel the moped, unassisted, on a level surface at a maximum speed no greater 

than thirty miles per hour.” §291C-202(a)(1) Note: Prior to this date, the law (§291C-202(a)(1) prior to amendment in 

1998) provided that mopeds offered for sale could have a maximum unassisted speed on a level surface of 35 mph. A 

“grandfather” clause in the cited statute provides that these 35 mph speed mopeds may still be legally operated in the State. 126Note: Hawaii law does not specifically state whether different highway speed limits may be established either for 

different types of vehicles, for various weather conditions or for different times of the day. 
SPEED 2005 62

III.A “neighborhood electric vehicle” cannot (1) be operated 

at a speed >25 mph or (2), except for crossing, 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation be driven on a highway with a posted speed limit >35 mph.127 

§291C-134(a) and (b) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are traffic infractions/violations. 

§§291C-102(a), 291C-161(a), 291C-192(a), 291D-2 and 701-

107(5) 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): None

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): First offense — not more than $200. Second offense (within 1 

year) — not more than $300. Third or subsequent offense

(within 1 year) — not more than $500. §§291C-161(b) and 

291D-9(a) and (b)128

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: A person may be required to attend a driver training course.129 

§291C-161(e) 

 Other: In cases where the limit was exceeded by more than 10 mph, a 

surcharge of $10 is imposed. §291C-102(c). 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action (Susp/Rev): I. Court-Ordered Suspension or Revocation via §286-125 

 II. Court-Ordered Suspension or Revocation via §291C-170 

 Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): I. Under §286-126, the court is authorized to suspend a license 

for not more than 5 years or revoke a license. In the case of 

revocation, the licensing agency is not to grant driving 

privileges for 1 year. 

II. Under §291C-170, the court is authorized to either suspend 

or revoke a license for 1 year. 

 

127A “neighborhood electric vehicle” is defined as a four-wheeled motor vehicle that (1) is emission-free, (2) is designed to 

carry 1 to 4 persons, (3) is designed to operate a speeds ≤25 mph, (4) has an unladen weight of <1,800 lbs., and (5) satisfies 

Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 500 related to low speed vehicles (49 CFR 571.500). §291C-1 

128The district courts must establish schedules of monetary assessments for traffic infractions. These assessments cannot 

exceed the maximum fine prescribed by law. §291D-9(b) 129The district court is authorized to order an offender who within 12 months has violated the traffic laws with such 

frequency as to indicate disrespect for such laws to report in person to the court for a review of his/her driving record. 

Following such a review, the court may order an offender to attend a course of instruction in driver retaining. §286-128 
 

63 SPEED 2005 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None. Licensing action is discretionary. §§286-125, 286-

128(b) and 291C-170 

 

 Miscellaneous Sanctions 

Not Included Elsewhere: The court has the authority to order a temporary suspension of 

a person's license for a traffic infraction. §291D-12(4) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway130: (1) Petty misdemeanor or (2) if only exhibition of speed or 

acceleration are involved, infraction (a noncriminal offense)131 

§§291C-103, 291D-2 and 701-107(1, (4) and (5) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Petty misdemeanor — not more than 6 months. §291C103(e) 

Infraction — none 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): Petty misdemeanor — not more than $500. §291C-103(e) 

Infraction — not more than $500. §291C-103(e) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: I. Court-Ordered Suspension or Revocation via §286-125 

II. Court-Ordered Suspension or Revocation via §291C170 

Length of Term of Licensing Withdrawal: I. Under §286-126, the court is authorized to either suspend a 

license for not than 5 years or revoke a license. In the case of 

revocation, the licensing agency is not to grant driving 

privileges for 1 year. 

II. Under §291C-170, the court is authorized to either suspend 

or revoke a license for 1 year. 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: None. Licensing action is discretionary. §§286-125 and 

291C-170 

Other: I. Infraction-Sentenced to Perform Community Service. 

§291C-103(e) 

II. A person may be required to attend a driver-training 

course. §291C-161(e) 

 

130Bicycle Racing: Except as authorized by law, it is a traffic violation for a person to race a bicycle on the highways. The 

sanctions for such a violation are: for a first offense not more than $200, for a second offense (within 1 year of the first 

offense) not more than $300 and for a third or subsequent offense (within 1 year of the first offense) not more than $500. 

§§291C-149 and 291C-161(a) and (b) 

131A person is prohibited from driving a vehicle on a highway in "any race, speed competition or contest, drag race or 

acceleration contest, test of physical endurance, exhibition of speed or acceleration, or for the purpose of making speed 

record...." §291C-103(a) 
SPEED 2005 64

III. A fee of $25 that is paid into the Criminal Injuries 

Compensation Fund. §351-351 

IV. Any offender who exceeds a speed limit by 30 mph or 

more is subject to a fine of $2,000 and/or jail for 12 months, 

plus license suspension and forfeiture of the vehicle used. 

§291C-103(f) 

Reckless Driving132: Petty misdemeanor. §§291-2 and 701-107(4) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 30 days. §291-2 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. §291-2 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action (Susp/Rev): I. Court-Ordered Suspension or Revocation via §286-125 

II. Court-Ordered Suspension or Revocation via 

 §291C-170 

 Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: I. Under §286-126, the court is authorized to suspend a license 

for not more than 5 years or revoke a license. In the case of 

revocation, the licensing agency is not to grant driving 

privileges for 1 year. 

II. Under §291C-170, the court is authorized to either suspend 

or revoke a license for 1 year. 

Reckless Driving (continued) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. Licensing action is discretionary. §§286-125, 286-

128(b) and 291C-170 

Other: I. A person may be required to attend a driver-training course. 

§291C-161(e) 

 

132Inattention to Driving: The law also establishes the offense of “inattention to driving.” This offense is defined as 

operating “any vehicle without due care or in a manner as to cause a collision with, or injury or damage to, as the case may 

be, any person, vehicle or other property....” This offense is a petty misdemeanor with the following sanctions: 

incarceration for not more than 30 days or a fine of not more than $500. §§291-12 and 701-107(4) A fee of $25 which is 

paid into the Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund is also levied. §351-351 Note: The administrative licensing actions are 

the same as for Reckless Driving. Injury Offenses: The law establishes motor vehicle offenses related to bodily injury: 

Negligent Vehicle Operation Causing Serious Injury — Class C felony-Imprisonment for not more than 5 years; fine of not 

more than $10,000. Negligent Vehicle Operation Causing Substantial Injury — misdemeanor-Jail for not more than 1 

year; fine not more than $2,000. §§706-640,706-660,706-663, 707-705 and 707-706. Discretionary license suspension or 

revocation is possible for conviction of a felony “in the commission of which a motor vehicle is used, or [for] a 

violation...of any traffic law ore regulation...involving a vehicle in motion.” A suspension, if ordered, cannot be for more 

than 5 years. A revocation, if ordered, must be for a period of 1 year. §§286-125 and 286-126 
 

65 SPEED 2005 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators133: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she (1) commits 2 "serious 

 traffic violations"134 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 

such violations within a 3-year period. §286-240(e) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days. Three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less 

than 120 days. §286-240(e) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days. Three

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §286-240(e) 

 

133A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle to be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §286-2 134A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §286-231 
SPEED 2005 66

JURISDICTION: IDAHO

General References: Idaho Code (General Laws of Idaho Annotated), Idaho 

Infraction (Court) Rules and Idaho Administrative Code 

(IDAPA) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed 

greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions 

and having regard to the actual and potential hazards then 

existing. §49-654(1) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 75 mph on interstate highways §49-654(2)(c) 

See Other below. 65 mph on Stats highways §49-654(2)(d) 

55 mph in other locations §49-654(2)(e) 

35 mph in a residential, business, or urban districts §49-

654(2)(a) and (b) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

may increase or decrease the above speed limits.135 However, 

no maximum posted speed limit can exceed either 75 mph for 

interstate highways or 65 mph for other State highways. §49-

201(4) 

II. For highways within its jurisdiction, a local government, 

based on engineering and traffic investigations, may (1) 

decrease the speed limit in a residential, business or urban 

districts or (2) increase the speed limits above the statutory 

limit for an urban district but not >65 mph on arterial 

highways. §§49-207(2) and 49-208(1)(i) 

III. Local authorities within their jurisdictions may establish 

speed limits for public parks. §49-208(1)(e) 

IV. Local authorities may lower the speed limits on those 

portions of State highways that pass through residential or 

business districts within their jurisdiction. §49-201(4). These 

speed limits must be less than the maximum speed limits 

established by the State. §49-208(w) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such slow speed as 

to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic 

except when reduced speed is necessary for safe operation or 

in compliance with the law. §49-655 

 II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane available for 

 

135This includes the establishment of different highway speed limits (1) for different types of vehicles (e.g., persons who 

operate certain types of trucks may be required to drive these vehicles at a slower speed than those who operate other types 

of motor vehicles), (2) at different times of the day, (3) for various weather conditions or (4) for other factors bearing on 

safe speeds. §49-201(4) 
67 SPEED 2005 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge 

of the highway. §49-630(2) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: I. Based upon engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

may establish a minimum posted speed limit on a highway. 

This does not apply where a local authority has established a 

lower speed limit on those parts of a State highway that pass 

through either a residential or business district under the 

authority of the local jurisdiction. §49-202(22) 

II. Local authorities within their jurisdictions may establish 

minimum speed limits. §49-208(1)(m) 

Other: I. A person shall not drive a vehicle over a bridge or elevated 

structure in violation of the posted safe maximum speed limit 

for such structures.136 §49-656 

II. For vehicles without pneumatic tires and weighing either 

≤10,000 lbs. or >10,000 lbs., the respective maximum speed 

limits are either 20 mph or 12 mph. §49-1003 

III. Vehicles with 5 or more axles and operating with a gross 

weight >26,000 lbs. shall not exceed 65 mph on interstate 

highways. §49-654(3) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are infractions.137 §§49-110(5) and 

49-236(2) 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): None

 Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Not more than $100138 §18-113A 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

 

136Based upon investigations, the State determines the safe maximum speed limits for these structures. §49-202(21) 137An infraction is a not a crime but a civil public offense. §18-111 138Fixed Penalty: The following fixed penalties, which include court costs, are assessed for speed-related infractions: for 

exceeding the speed limit by ≥1 mph but <20 mph, a fixed penalty of $53; for exceeding the speed limit by ≥20 mph, a 

fixed penalty of $108; and for speeding in a construction zone, a fixed penalty of $82.50. Rule 9(4)(a) and (b) and (6), 

Idaho Infraction Rules 
SPEED 2005 68

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: N/A 

 Other: N/A 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via the point system139 §49-326(2) and (3) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Suspension for not more than 1 year. §49-326(5) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None. Restricted driving privileges may be granted. §49-

326(4) 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: N/A 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

 Racing on Highway: Misdemeanor140 §§18-111, 49-236(1) and 49-1424(1) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 6 months. §§18-113(1) and 49-236(4) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $300. §§18-113(1) and 49-236(4) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension via the point system. §49-326(2) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Suspension for not more than 1 year. §49-326(5) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: None. Restricted driving privileges may be granted. §49-

326(4) 

Other: N/A 

 

139Point System: I. An offender's license is suspended for 30 days, 90 days or 6 months, if he/she respectively 

accumulates 12 points within 12 months, 18 points within 24 months or 24 points within 36 months. Note: Three (3) 

points are deducted from a driver's record if he/she attends traffic school prior to a suspension; this can only occur once in a 

3 year period. II. The following points are assessed for speeding and speed-related offenses: one mph to 15 mph over the 

speed limit — 3 points; inattentive driving — 3 points; 16 or more mph over the speed limit — 4 points; a violation of the 

minimum speed rule (including not driving in the right-hand lane when proceeding at less the normal rate of speed) — 3 

points; a violation of a posted speed limit on an elevated structure — 3 to 4 points; and, racing on the highways — 4 points. 

§49-326 and IDAPA 39.02.71 

140"No person shall drive any vehicle in any race, speed competition or contest, drag race or acceleration contest, test of 

physical endurance, exhibition of speed or acceleration or for the purpose of making a speed record...." §49-1424(1) 
69 SPEED 2005 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Reckless Driving: Misdemeanor. §§18-111, 49-236(1) and 49-1401(1) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — 5 to 90 days. Subsequent offense — 10 days 

to 6 months. §49-1401(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $25 to $300. Subsequent offense — $50 to 

$300. §49-1401(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension. §§49-326(1)(f) and 49-1401(2) and (3) For 3 

reckless driving offense convictions within 12 monthsRevocation. §49-325(1)(d) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — 30 day suspension. Second offense (within 2 

years) — 90 day suspension. Third offense (within 3 years) 

— 1 year suspension. §49-326(1)(f) 3 offenses within 12 

months — 1 year revocation. §§49-325(1)(d) and 49-326(5) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: For suspensions — none. Restricted driving privileges may 

be granted. §49-326(4) However, for 3 offenses within 12 

months, the 1 year revocation appears to be mandatory. 

§§49-325(1)(d) and 49-326(5) 

Inattentive Driving154: Misdemeanor §§18-111, 49-236(1) and 49-1401(3) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 6 months §18-113(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $300. §18-113(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via the point system. §49-326(2) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension for not more than 1 year. §49-326(5) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. Restricted driving privileges may be granted. §49-

326(4) 

 

141Inattentive Driving: "[T]hose circumstances where the conduct of the operator has been inattentive, careless or 

imprudent, in light of the circumstances then existing, rather than heedless or wanton, or in those cases where the danger to 

persons or property by the motor vehicle operator's conduct is slight." This is a lesser offense than reckless driving. §49-

1401(3) 
SPEED 2005 70

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators155: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she (1) commits 2 "serious traffic 

violations 156" within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 such 

violations within a 3-year period. §49-335(6) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days. Three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less 

than 120 days §49-335(6) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days. Three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days §49-335(6) 

 

142A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of >26,000 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §49-123(2)(c) 143A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §49-120(11) 

with reference to 49 CFR part 383 
71 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: ILLINOIS

General References: West's Smith-Hurd Illinois Compiled 

Statutes Annotated and Illinois Administrative Code 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: A person shall not drive a vehicle upon any highway at a 

speed that is greater than is reasonable and proper with regard 

to traffic conditions and the use of the highway, or endangers 

the safety of any person or property. §625 ILCS 5/11-601(a) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 65 mph144 (1) on Illinois toll highways and (2) on highways 

that are divided and have at least 4 lanes. 

See Other below. §625 ILCS 5/11-601(b) and (d) 

55 mph on all other highways, roads or streets outside an 

urban district. §625 ILCS 5/11-601(b) and (d) 

 55 mph for Second Division Vehicles weighing >8,001 lbs. 

§625 ILCS 5/11-601(e). A Second Division Vehicle is 

defined in Footnote No. 157. 

30 mph in an urban district. §625 ILCS 5/11-601(b) and 

(c)(1) 

15 mph in an urban district alley. §625 ILCS 5/11-601(b) and 

(c)(2) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. The State Toll Highway Authority, based on engineering 

and traffic investigations, may establish a maximum speed on 

toll highways under its authority that are less than 65 mph. 

§625 ILCS 5/11-603 

II. With certain limitations and based on engineering and 

traffic investigations, the State may increase or decrease the 

above speed limits.145 §625 ILCS 5/11-602 

III. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, a local 

government may increase or decrease the maximum speed on 

highway, streets or roads within its jurisdiction. However, the 

following limitations apply: (1) The speed limit in an urban 

district cannot be less than 20 mph; (2) A speed limit cannot 

be more than 55 mph; (3) The speed limit outside of an urban 

district cannot be less 

 

144The 65 mph speed limit applies (1) to vehicles that are designed to carry not more than 10 persons (First Division 

vehicles) or (2) to Second Division vehicles which have a gross weight of <8,000 lbs. A Second Division Vehicle is 

defined as one (1) designed to carry 10 or more persons, (2) used for living quarters, (3) designed to carry or pull property, 

freight or cargo, or (4) a registered school bus regardless of the number of students it is designed to carry. §§625 ILCS 5/1-

217 and 5/11-601(d) 

145The following limitations apply: (1) The State cannot establish a speed limit greater than 65 mph on any highway; and 

(2) The maximum speed limit is 55 mph for Second Division vehicles weighing >8,001 lbs. and on highways that abut 

certain property where there is "a limited right of easement, of access, crossing, light, air, or view." §625 ILCS 5/11-602 

Note: Except as noted, Illinois law does not specifically state whether different highway speed limits may be established 

either for different types of vehicles, for various weather conditions or for different times of the day. 
SPEED 2005 72

Basis for a Speed Law Violation:

(continued) 

than 35 mph; and (4) Except as provided in (1), the speed limit 

in a residential district cannot be less than 25 mph. §65 ILCS 

5/11-40 — 1 and §§625 ILCS 5/11-208 and 5/11-604 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall operate a motor vehicle at such a slow 

speed as to impede or block the normal and reasonable 

movement of traffic. §625 ILCS 5/11-606(a) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. 625 ILCS 5/11-701(b) 

 Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State may 

establish a minimum speed limit on any part of a highway or 

street. §625 ILCS 5/1-606(b). Note: Via signs, “specified 

traffic” (e.g. slower moving traffic) may be directed to use 

designated lanes. §625 ILCS 5/11-709(c) 

Other: I. The maximum speed limit is 55 mph for Second Division 

vehicles1

 weighing ≥8,000 lbs. on any highway outside an 

urban district. §625 ILCS 5/11-601(b) and (e) 

II. The maximum speed limit for a bus is (1) 65 mph on a 4-

lane divided highway under the State Toll Highway Authority 

(2) 60 mph on other highways under the State Toll Highway 

Authority and (3) 55 mph on all other highways, streets or 

roads. §625 ILCS 5/11-601(b) and (f) 

III. The maximum speed limit is 55 mph outside of an urban 

area for house cars, campers, private living coaches, 

recreational vehicles and any vehicle that is towing another 

vehicle. §625 ILCS 5/11-601(b) and (g) 

IV. The maximum speed limit is 20 mph "while passing a 

school zone or while traveling upon any public thoroughfare 

where children pass going to and from school." §625 ILCS 

5/11-605(a) 

V. Special posted speed limits may be established for 

construction or maintenance zones. §625 ILCS 5/11-605(b) 

VI. Based on safety investigations, the State may establish 

maximum speed limits for bridges or other elevated structures. 

§625 ILCS 5/11-608 

VII. No person shall operate a vehicle at speed greater than 

the "maximum attainable operating speed" of such vehicle as 

determined by its manufacturer. §625 ILCS 5/11-611 

VIII. No person shall drive ≥40 mph over the applicable 

maximum speed limit. §625 ILCS 5/11-601.5 

 
73 SPEED 2005 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: First or second speed law offenses are petty offenses. A Third 

or subsequent speed law offense (within 1 year) is a Class C 

misdemeanor. §625 ILCS 5/16-104 

Other: Driving ≥40 mph over the speed limit, Class A misdemeanor. 

§625 ILCS 5/11-601.5 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: See Miscellaneous Sanctions for penalties related to exceeding 

the speed limit in school and construction zones. 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, Etc.): First or second offenses — none. Third or subsequent 

offense (within 1 year) — not more than 30 days. §730 ILCS 

5/5-8-3(a)(3) Driving ≥40 mph over the speed limit-Any term 

less than 1 year. §730 ILCS 5/5-8-3(a)(1) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): First or second offense — not more than $1,000. Third or 

subsequent offense (within 1 year) — not more than $1,500. 

§730 ILCS 5/5-9-1(a)(3) and (4) Driving ≥40 mph over the 

speed limit — not more than $2,500. §730 ILCS 5/5-9-1(a)(2) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None.

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: An offender who is under 18 years old may be required to 

attend a Driver Remedial Education Course before his/her 

license is reinstated. §625 ILCS 5/6-206(c-5) 

 Other: There is a special fine of $4 for each $40 of fine that is 

imposed. §625 ILCS 5/16-104a 

 Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension or Revocation based on (1) 3 traffic offenses 

within a 12 month period or (2) repeated traffic law 

convictions which indicate a disrespect of the traffic laws. 

§625 ILCS 5/6-206(a)(2) and (3) 

Persons Under 21 Years Old: Suspension or revocation if 

the person has committed not less than 2 offenses against 

traffic regulations within a 24-month period. §625 ILCS 5/6-

206(a)(34) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Suspension — not more than 1 year. Revocation — 1 year. 

§625 ILCS 5/6-208(a) and (b)(1) A point system is used by 

the licensing agency to determine the length of any suspension 

or whether to impose a revocation.146

 

146Point System: A point system has been established to determine suspension length or whether to impose revocation. 

I. The following points are assigned for speeding or speed-related offenses: reckless driving-55 points; squealing or 

screeching of tires — 10 points; speeding too fast for conditions — 10 points; 1 to 10 mph above the speed limit — 5 

points; 11 to 14 mph above the speed limit-15 points; 15 to 25 mph above the speed limit-20 points; over 25 mph above the 

speed limit-50 points; exceeding the maximum speed limit in a school zone-20 points; driving below the minimum speed 
SPEED 2005 74

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None. Licensing action by the State is discretionary. §625 

ILCS 5/6-206 

 Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Exceeding the Posted Speed Limit in School or 

Construction Zones is a petty offense with a fine of $150 to 

$1,000. The minimum fine of $150 appears to be mandatory. 

There is an additional fine of $50 which is used for school 

safety purposes. §§625 ILCS 5/11-605(e) and (f) and 730 

ILCS 5/5-9-1(a)(4) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Drag Racing on the Highway: Class C misdemeanor. §625 ILCS 5/11-504 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 30 days. §730 ILCS 5/5-8-3(a)(3) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,500. §730 ILCS 5/5-9-1(a)(3) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Revocation. §625 ILCS 5/6-205(a)(8) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: 1 year. §625 ILCS 5/6-208(b)(1) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 

limit — 5 points; driving below the minimum speed limit on an Illinois Tollway-20 points; not driving in the right-hand 

lane when proceeding at less than the normal speed of traffic-20 points; and, exceeding the maximum speed limit on a 

bridge or elevated structure — 10 points. 92 Illinois Administrative Code §1040.20(c) 

II. If a person's license is suspended or revoked via §625 ILCS 5/6-206(a)(2) as a result of 3 convictions within 12 months, 

the following point schedule is used to determine licensing action: (1) if there has been no prior suspension or revocation 

within 7 years, the following licensing action is taken: 0 through 14 points — no action; 15 through 44 points-2 month 

suspension; 45 through 74 points — 3 month suspension; 75 through 89 points — 6 month suspension; 90 through 99 

points — 9 month suspension; 100 through 109 points-12 month suspension; and, 110 or more points-revocation (1 year); 

(2) if there has been 1 or more prior suspensions or revocations within 7 years, the following licensing action is taken: 0 

through 14 points-no action; 15 through 44 points — 4 month suspension; 45 through 74 points — 6 month suspension; 75 

through 109 points-12 month suspension; and, 110 or more points-revocation (1 year). 92 Illinois Administrative Code 

§1040.30(b) 

III. If a person's license is suspended or revoked via §625 ILCS 5/6-206(a)(3) as a result of repeated traffic violations 

which indicate a disrespect for the traffic laws, the following point schedule is used to determine licensing action: (1) A 

person's license is revoked (1 year) if the licensing agency receives notice after the state of the 12 month suspension in II 

above that the person has accumulated 90 additional points above that needed to determine the suspension and these 

additional points were accumulated during the same period of time as those used to determine the suspension. (2) If there 

has been 1 or more prior suspensions or revocations within 7 years under §625 ILCS 5/6-206(a)(3), the following licensing 

action is taken: 0 through 14 points-no action; 15 or more points-revocation (1 year). (3) If there has been 2 or more prior 

suspensions or revocations within 7 years not related to §625 ILCS 5/6-206(a)(3), the following licensing action is taken: 0 

through 14 points-no action; 15 through 109 points-12 month suspension; 110 or more points-revocation (1 year) 92 

Illinois Administrative Code §1040.40(c) 
75 SPEED 2005 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: None. A hardship license may be issued for employment 

purposes. §625 ILCS 5/6-205(c) 

Other: There is a special fine of $4 for each $40 of fine that is 

imposed. §625 ILCS 5/16-104a 

Reckless Driving: Class A misdemeanor. §625 ILCS 5/11-503(a) and (b) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Any term less than 1 year. §730 ILCS 5/5-8-3(a)(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $2,500. §730 ILCS 5/5-9-1(a)(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: 

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension or Revocation via a point system. Revocation

upon 3 convictions within 12 months. §625 ILCS 5/6-

205(a)(6) 

 Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 1 year. §625 ILCS 5/6-208(b)(1) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. A hardship license may be issued for employment 

purposes. §625 ILCS 5/6-205(c) 

Other: There is a special fine of $4 for each $40 of fine that is 

imposed. §625 ILCS 5/16-104a 

 Aggravated Reckless Driving:160 Class 4 Felony §625 ILCS 5/11-503(a) and (c) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): 1 to 3 years. §730 ILCS 5/5-8-1(a)(7) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $25,000. §730 ILCS 5/5-9-1(a)(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Revocation upon 3 convictions within 12 months. §625 ILCS 

5/6-205(a)(6) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Not more than 1 year. §730 ILCS 5/5-8-3(a)(1) 

 

147Aggravated reckless driving is reckless driving that results in either "great bodily harm or permanent disability or 

disfigurement to another." §625 ILCS 5/11-503(c) 
SPEED 2005 76

Aggravated Reckless Driving:

(continued) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. A hardship license may be issued for employment 

purposes. §625 ILCS 5/6-205(c) 

Other: There is a special fine of $4 for each $40 of fine that is 

imposed. §625 ILCS 5/16-104a 

Squealing or Screeching of Tires: First or second offenses are petty offenses. §625 ILCS 5/11-

505. A third offense (within 1 year) is a Class C misdemeanor. 

§625 ILCS 5/16-104 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First or second offenses — none. Third offense (within 1 

year) — not more than 30 days. §730 ILCS 5/5-8-3(a)(3) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): First or second offenses — not more than $1,000. Third

offense (within 1 year) — not more than $1,500. §730 ILCS 

5/5-9-1(a)(3) and (4) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

 Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension or Revocation based either (1) on 3 traffic 

offenses within a 12 month period or (2) on repeated traffic 

law convictions which indicate a disrespect of the traffic laws. 

§625 ILCS 5/6-206(a)(2) and (3) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension — not more than 1 year. Revocation — 1 year. 

§625 ILCS 5/6-208(a) and (b)(1) A point system is used by 

the licensing agency to determine the length of any suspension 

or whether to impose a revocation.3

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. Licensing action by the State is discretionary. §625 

ILCS 5/6-206 

 Other: There is a special fine of $4 for each $40 of fine that is 

imposed. §625 ILCS 5/16-104a 

 
77 SPEED 2005 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators:161

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she (1) commits 2 “serious traffic 

violations”162 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 such 

violations within a 3-year period. §625 ILCS 5/6-514(e) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 2 

months three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less 

than 4 months §625 ILCS 5/6-514(e) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 2 months three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 4 months §625 ILCS 

5/6-514(e) 

 

161A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §625 ILCS 5/6-

500(6) 

162 A “serious traffic violation” includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §625 ILCS 5/6-

500(26 
SPEED 2005 78

JURISDICTION: INDIANA

This chapter summarizes Indiana State statutes related to 

speed. 

General References: Burn's Indiana Statutes Annotated and Indiana Administrative 

Code (IAC) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: A person may not drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is 

reasonable and prudent under the conditions, having regard to 

the actual and potential hazards then existing. This includes 

special hazards such as going around a curve, approaching a 

hill, traveling upon a narrow or winding roadway. §§9-21 — 

5 — 1 and 9-21-5-4 

Statutory Speed Limit: 70 mph {except for vehicles having a declared gross weight 

greater than twenty-six thousand pounds} on an interstate or 

defense highway located outside an urban area with a 

population ≥50,000. §9-21-5-2(3) 

65 mph for vehicles having a declared gross weight greater 

than twenty-six thousand pounds - — on an interstate or 

defense highway located outside an urban area with a 

population ≥50,000. §9-21-5-2(4) 

 65 mph on: (A) U.S. 20 from the intersection of U.S. 20 and 

County Road 17 in Elkhart County to the intersection of U.S. 

20 and U.S. 31 in St. Joseph County; 

 (B) U.S. 31 from the intersection of U.S. 31 and U.S. 20 in 

St. Joseph County to the boundary line between Indiana and 

Michigan; and 

 (C) a highway classified by the Indiana department of 

transportation as an INDOT Freeway. §9-21-5-2(5) 

 60 mph on a highway: (A) not designated part of the national 

system of interstate and defense highways; (B) has four (4) or 

more lanes; 

 (C) is divided into two (2) or more roadways by: 

 (i) an intervening space that is unimproved and not 

intended for vehicular travel; 

 (ii) a physical barrier; or 

 (iii) a dividing section constructed to impede vehicular 

traffic; and 

 (D) is located outside an urbanized area. §9-21-5-2(7) 

55 mph on other highways §9-21-5-2(2) 

30 mph in an urban district §9-21-5-2(1) 

15 mph in an alley §9-21-5-2(8) 

 Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: 

 I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Department of Transportation may increase or lower the 

above speed limits on any part of a highway.150 §§9-21 — 5 

— 3 and 9-21-5-12(a) 

 

150The department may also establish different maximum speed limits (1) for different times of the day, (2) for various 

types of vehicles, (3) for various weather conditions or (4) for other factors related to speed. §9-21-5-12(b) 
79 SPEED 2005 

 II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, a local 

government may increase or decrease the 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) maximum speed on any part of a highway or establish the 

maximum safe speed on the streets within its jurisdiction.151 

§§9-21-1-3(a)(5) and (11), 9-21 — 5 — 3 and 9-21-5-6(a) and 

(b) 

Minimum Speed Limit: 

I. A person shall not drive a motor vehicle at a slow speed that 

impedes or blocks the normal and reasonable movement of 

traffic. §9-21-5-7 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available 

 for traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or 

edge of the roadway. §§9-21-5 — 9 and 9-21-8-2(b) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Department of Transportation or a local government, for 

highways with its jurisdiction, may establish a minimum 

speed on any part of a highway. §9-21-5-8 

Other: I. A vehicle with a gross weight ≥ 26,001 lbs. shall not be 

driven at speed greater than 60 mph. §9-21-5-2(4) 

 II. An "oversized vehicle"152 shall not be driven at a speed 

greater than 45 mph. §9-21-5-5 

III. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Department of Transportation may establish a safe maximum 

speed on any bridge or elevated structure. §9-21-5-10 

 IV. The State Department of Transportation or a local 

government may establish a temporary safe maximum speed 

limit at a worksite not to exceed 45 mph in any location. §9-

21-5-11 

V. A vehicle that is not ordinarily operated at speed >25 mph 

cannot be operated above this speed. Such vehicles include 

pulled, towed, self-propelled or animal-drawn vehicles. §9-

21-9-1 

VI. A motorized bicycle may not be operated at a speed 

greater than 25 mph. §9-21-11-12(4) 

VII. A school bus cannot be driven >55 mph on a Federal or 

State highway or >40 mph on any country or township 

highway. §20-9.1-5-10 

 

151However, such government cannot (1) decrease a maximum speed limit within an urban district to less than 20 mph, (2) 

increase the maximum speed limit within an urban district to more than 55 mph during the day or 50 mph at night, (3) 

decrease the maximum speed limit outside an urban district to less than 30 mph, (4) decrease the maximum speed limit in 

an alley to less than 5 mph and (5) increase the maximum the speed limit in an alley to more than 30 mph. §9-21-5-6(a). 

However, local government may establish a speed limit on a street located within a park or playground at not less than 15 

mph. §9-21-5-6(e). In addition, a local government may also establish a speed limit of not less than 20 mph on a State 

highway which is located in the immediate vicinity of a school. Such a limit is only in effect when children are present. 

§9-21-5-6(d) 

152An "oversized vehicle" is one which is either has (1) a width >10 feet, 6 inches, (2) a height >13 feet, 6 inches, or (3) a 

length >85 feet. §9-21 — 5 — 5 
SPEED 2005 80

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: I. All speed law violations are Class C infractions, except for 

II below and for violations of a speed limit near a school when 

children are present or near a worksite when workers are 

present, which are Class B infractions. §§9-21-5-13, 9-21-8-

49, 9-21 — 9 — 7 and 9-21-11-12 

II. A person who operates a school bus in violation of VI 

above or who otherwise exceeds the posted speed limit while 

operating such a motor vehicle commits a Class C 

Misdemeanor. §20-9.1-5-22(a) 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, Etc.): Class C infraction — none 

Class C misdemeanor — not more than 60 days §35-50-3-4 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Class C infraction — not more than $500 §34-28-5-4(c) 

 Class B infraction — not more than $1,000 §34-28-5-4(b) 

Class C misdemeanor — not more than $500 §35-50-3-4 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: Note: If a person attends a "defensive driving course," his/her 

point accumulation total is reduced by 4 points. §140 IAC §1-

4.5-7 

 Other: Exceeding Construction Zone Speed Limit: The court may 

order a person to pay a fee of $25 for exceeding a worksite 

speed limit. §33-19-6-14(b) 

Exceeding Speed Limit in School Zone (with Children 

Present): Class B infraction — not more than $1,000. §§9-

21-5-13 and 34-28-5-4(b) 

 Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action (Susp/Rev): Suspension.153 §9-30-4-9(a)(4) 

 

153Point System: The point system is used by the licensing agency as a means aiding it in identifying persons who have 

committed traffic law violations and determining whether such person's license should be suspended for such offenses. The 

system does not establish a threshold point accumulation level that would automatically result in either license suspension 

or revocation. I. A person is placed on probation if they accumulate 12 points within 24 months (10 points within 24 

months if under 18 years old) or 8 points within 1 year. II. Persons are required to appear for administrative hearings if 

they have (1) accumulated 8 or more points prior to the start of the probationary period but where such points where not 

used to determine probationary status or (2) accumulated 17 points. III. The following points have been assigned to 

speeding or speed-related violations: 1 to 15 mph over the speed limit-2 points; 16 to 25 mph over the speed limit — 4 

points; over 25 mph over the speed limit — 6 points; speeding in a school bus, where the speed is not indicated or where 

the speed is 1 to 15 mph in excess of limit — 6 points; speeding in a school bus, where the speed is >15 mph in excess of 

the limit — 8 points; minimum speed law violation (including not driving in the right-hand lane when proceeding at less 

than the normal speed of traffic) — 2 points; unsafe speed on bridge or elevated structure — 4 points; speed contest — 8 

points; reckless driving — 6 points; reckless driving resulting in either personal injury or property damage — 8 points; and, 

criminal reckless driving — 8 points. §9-14-2-2 and 140 IAC §§1-4.5-2, 1-4.5-4, 1-4.5-6, 1-4.5 — 7 and 1-4.5-10 
81 SPEED 2005 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Not more than 1 year. §9-30-4-9(g) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None. A restricted license for employment purposes may be 

issued. §9-24-15-2 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: N/A 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Speed Contests on Highways or Streets: Class B misdemeanor. §§9-21 — 6 — 1 and 9-21-6-3 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 180 days. §35-50-3-3 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. §35-50-3-3 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension. §9-30-4-9(a)(4) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Not more than 1 year. §9-30-4-9(g) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: None. A restricted license for employment is available. §9-

24-15-2 

Other: N/A 

 Reckless Driving154: Class B misdemeanor. §§9-21-8-50 and 9-21-8-52 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 180 days. §35-50-3-3 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. §35-50-3-3 

 

154Reckless driving is defined as follows: I. operating a vehicle at such a high or low rate of speed such as to endanger the 

safety or property of others or block the proper flow of traffic §9-21-8-52(a)(1); II. passing a vehicle on a curve where 

vision is obstructed for a distance of <500 feet §9-21-8-52(a)(2); III. driving a vehicle in and out of a line of traffic except 

as otherwise permitted §9-21-8-52(a)(3); IV. speeding up or refusing to give half of the roadway to a driver desiring to 

either pass or overtake §9-21-8-52(a)(4); V. passing a school bus when the arm signal device is in operation §9-21-8-

52(a)(5); and VI. operating a tractor-trailer so as to endanger the safety or property of others or block the flow of traffic. 

§9-21-8-50 
SPEED 2005 82

Reckless Driving

(continued) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension4

 §9-30-4-9(a)(4) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Not more than 1 year. If the offense resulted in property 

damage, an offender's license is subject to suspension from 30 

days to 1 year. §§9-21-8-52(b) and 9-30-4-9(g) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Limited. A restricted license for employment purposes may 

be issued. §9-24-15-2. However, there appears to 

 be a 30-day mandatory suspension if the offense 

 resulted in property damage. §9-21-8-52(b) and 140 IAC §1-

4.5-10(d) 

Other: N/A 

Criminal Recklessness155: Class A misdemeanor. §35-42-2-2(b) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 1 year. §35-50-3-2 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $5,000. §35-50-3-2 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension §9-30-13-1 

 Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 60 days to 2 years. §9-30-13 — 1 

 Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: A 60-day suspension appears to be mandatory. §9-30-13 — 1 

and 140 IAC §1-4.5-10(d) 

Other: N/A 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators156: 

 

155A person commits "criminal recklessness" if he/she operates a motor vehicle in such a manner as to create a substantial 

risk of bodily injury. §35-42-2-2(b) 

156A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §9-13-2-31 
83 SPEED 2005 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is subject to CDL disqualification if, while operating 

a CMV, he/she (1) commits 2 "serious traffic violations"157

within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 or more violations 

within a 3-year period. §9-24-6-7 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days. 3 or more 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §9-24-6-7 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days. 3 or more 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §9-24-6-7 

 

157A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §9-24-6-6(a)(1) and 

(2) 
SPEED 2005 84

JURISDICTION: IOWA

General References: Iowa Code Annotated and Iowa Administrative Code (IAC) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: A person shall drive a motor vehicle at a 

careful and prudent speed not greater than nor less than is 

reasonable and proper, having due regard to the traffic, surface 

and width of the highway and of any other conditions than 

existing, and no person shall drive any vehicle upon a 

highway at a speed greater than will permit the person to bring 

it to a stop within the assured clear distance ahead. §§321.285 

and 321.288 

Statutory Speed Limit: 70 mph - — interstate highways158; 65 on other controlledaccess, multi-laned highways §321.285(6)(a) 

See Other below. 55 mph on other highways or on surfaced secondary roads.159

§321.285(4) 

45 mph in suburban districts. §321.285(3) 

45 mph on roads under the control of the State Board of 

Regents.160 §262.68 

35 mph on State parks and preserve roads. §461A.36 

25 mph in a residence or school district. §321.285(2) 

20 mph in a business district. §321.285(1) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. The State may also establish a speed limit of 65 mph on 

certain non-limited access divided multi-laned highways. 

§321.285 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

on the primary road system or a city government on streets 

within its jurisdiction (except primary road extensions) may 

increase or decrease the above speed limits.161 §321.290 

III. The State or a city may lower the 65 mph speed limit upon 

highways located within the corporate limits of a city. 

§321.285(6) 

IV. Local authorities have the authority to regulate the speed 

in public parks and alleys. §321.236(5) and (11) 

V. With State approval, a local government may increase the 

statutory speed limits listed in §321.285. 

 

158 The department, on its own motion or in response to a recommendation of a metropolitan or regional planning 

commission or council of governments, may establish a lower speed limit on portions of interstate highway system for 

safety reasons. §321.285 6 (b) 

159If the secondary road is not surfaced with either concrete or asphalt, the maximum speed limit is 55 mph between sunrise 

and sunset and 50 mph between sunset and sunrise. §321.285 

160Note: The Board of Regents has authority over various education institutions (e.g., State University of Iowa). 161Note: Iowa law does not specifically state whether different highway speed limits may be established either for different 

types of vehicles, for various weather conditions or for different times of the day. 
85 SPEED 2005 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

However, any new speed limit cannot >55 mph. §321.293162

VI. The Natural Resource Commission may reduce the speed 

limit on State parks and preserve roads when such is needed to 

improve safety. §461A.36 

VII. The Board of Regents may establish lower speed limits 

on roads under their jurisdiction in the interest of safety. 

§262.68 

 Minimum Speed Limit: I. A person shall not drive a motor vehicle at such a slow 

speed to impede or block the normal and reasonable 

movement of traffic. §321.294 

II. A vehicle, which cannot attain and maintain a speed of 40 

mph, cannot be driven on the interstate system. §321.285 

III. A person, driving at less than the normal speed of traffic, 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §321.297(2) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State may 

establish a minimum speed limit on controlled-access, multilaned highways including interstate highways. §321.285 

Other: I. Based on a safety investigation, the State may establish a 

safe maximum speed limit for any bridge or elevated 

structure. §321.295 

II. A vehicle cannot be operated on a highway unless it can 

proceed up a 3 percent grade with speed of at least 20 mph. 

§321.382 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: Speed law violations are simple misdemeanors. §§262.68, 

321.482 and 461A.57 

Other: 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): Not more than 30 days. §903.1(1)(a) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 

 

162Note: Under this provision, the State can recommend that a local government increase speed limits on certain highways. 

If the local government fails to increase the speed limit per the recommendation, the State can establish higher speed limits 

after conducting an engineering and traffic investigation. 
SPEED 2005 86

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): $50 to $500163 §903.1(1)(a) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

 Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: Driver Improvement Program164 IAC 761-615.43(1)(a) 

 Other: Road Work Zone. For exceeding the speed limit in a road 

work zone, the fine is double the amount in the fine schedule. 

§§321.1(66) and 805.8A(14)(i) 

 Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension165 §321.210(1) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): 30 days to 1 year166 §321.212(1)(a) and IAC 761-615.11(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None A restricted license is available for employment, 

educational or medical purposes. §321.215(1) 

 

163Scheduled Violations. Most speed law violations are considered "scheduled violations" for which the following fines 

are provided.§§805.8 .7 805.8A. However, “[e]xcessive speed in whatever amount by a school bus is not a scheduled 

violation.....” §805.8A(5)(c) The fine schedule for speeding offenses in speed zones greater than fifty-five miles per hour is 

as follows: (1) ≤5 mph over the speed limit — $20; (2) >5 mph but ≤10 mph over the speed limit — $40; (3) >10 mph but 

≤15 mph over the speed limit — $60; (4) >15 mph but ≤20 mph over the speed limit — $80; (5) >20 mph over the speed 

limit — $90 plus $5 for every mph over the 20 mph excessive speed. §805.8A(5)(a) In speed zones with a speed limit >55 

mph, the fine schedule for speeding violations is as follows: (1) ≤5 mph over the speed limit — $10; (2) >5 mph but ≤10 

mph over the speed limit — $20; (3) >10 mph but ≤15 mph over the speed limit — $40; (4) >15 mph but ≤20 mph over the 

speed limit — $60; (5) >20 mph over the speed limit — $60 plus $2 for every mph over the 20 mph excessive speed. 

§805.8A(5)(b) For violating the posted safe speed limit for a bridge or elevated structure, the scheduled fine is $30. 

§805.8A(5)(e) For violating the minimum speed rule (i.e., driving too slow), the scheduled fine is $35. §805.8A(8) For not 

driving in the right-hand lane of traffic when proceeding at a speed less than the normal speed of traffic, the scheduled fine 

is $35. §805.8A(6)(c) For a failure to control vehicle and reduce speed to reasonable and proper rate there is a scheduled 

fine of $35. §805.8A(6)(c) 

164The licensing agency may require a person who is convicted of a speeding violation of ≥25 mph but ≤29 mph over the 

speed limit or for habitual traffic law violation to attend a driver improvement program. This program is in lieu of license 

suspension. However, a person cannot be assigned to this program more than once in 2 years. IAC 761-615.43(1)(a)(2) 

and (b) 

165A person's license may be suspended if he/she is a habitual offender of the traffic laws or if he/she commits a serious 

offense. §321.210(1)(b) and (f) 

166I. For licensing action based on habitual violations of the traffic laws, the following suspensions apply: (1) 3 

convictions within 12 months-90 days; (2) 4 convictions within 12 months — 120 days; 5 convictions within 12 months150 days; 6 convictions within 12 months 180 days; and, (5) 7 or more convictions within 12 months — 1 year. IAC 761-

615.13(2) Note: The licensing agency is not to consider the first two speeding violations within a 12 month period 

involving excess speed which was ≤10 mph below the speed limit in speed zones having limits between 34 and 56 mph. 

§321.210(2)(d) II. For licensing actions based on a serious violation (i.e. exceeding the speed limit by ≥25 mph), State 

regulations provide for graduated license suspension periods depending upon the speed of the vehicle; e.g., a person 

convicted of speeding ≥25 mph but <26 mph over the speed limit is subject to a 60 day suspension. A person convicted of 

speeding ≥49 mph over the speed limit is subject to a 1 year license suspension. IAC 761-615.17(2)(c) 
87 SPEED 2005 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere167: I. An offender is assessed an additional penalty of 30 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

Not Included Elsewhere: (continued) percent of the fine imposed. §911.2 

II. Civil Penalty. If an offender's license is suspended, he/she 

is subject to a civil penalty of $200 (if ≤19 years old, the civil 

penalty is $50). §321.218A 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Drag Racing on Highway: Simple misdemeanor. §321.278 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 30 days. §903.1(1)(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): $50 to $500. §903.1(1)(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Revocation. §321.209(6) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: First offense — 6 months. If there was no personal injury or 

property damage §321.212(1)(c) First offense where there is 

personal injury or property damage or for any subsequent 

offense — 1 year. §321.212(1)(a) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: None. A restricted license is available for employment, 

educational or medical purposes. §321.215(1) 

Other: I. An offender is assessed an additional penalty of 30 percent 

of the fine imposed. §911.2 

II. Civil Penalty. If an offender's license is revoked, he/she is 

subject to a civil penalty of $200. (if ≤19 years old, the civil 

penalty is $50). §321.218A 

Reckless Driving: Simple misdemeanor §321.277 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 30 days. §903.1(1)(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 

144I. A person commits an aggravated misdemeanor if he/she exceeds the speed limit by 25 mph while eluding a law 

enforcement officer. The sanctions for this misdemeanor are jail for not more than 2 years and/or a fine of $500 to $5,000 

and a surcharge that is equal to 30 percent of any fine imposed. §§321.279(2), 903.1(2) and 911.2 

II. A person commits a Class D felony if he/she exceeds the speed limit by 25 mph while eluding a law enforcement officer 

and commits one of the following: (1) participates in a public offense which is a felony (§702.13); (2) violates the drunk 

driving law (§321J.2); (3) violates the controlled substance law (§124.401; or (4) causes bodily injury to another person 

during the offense. The sanctions for this felony are imprisonment for not more than 5 years and/or a fine of $750 to 

$7,500 and a surcharge that is equal to 30 percent of any fine imposed. §§321.279(3), 902.9(5) and 911.2 
SPEED 2005 88

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): $50 to $500. §903.1(1)(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 

(Susp/Rev): Suspension. §321.210(1)(f) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Not more than 1 year. 321.212(1)(a) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. A restricted license is available for employment, 

educational or medical purposes. §321.215(1) 

Other: I. An offender is assessed an additional penalty of 30 percent 

of the fine imposed. §911.2 

II. Civil Penalty. If an offender's license is suspended, he/she 

is subject to a civil penalty of $200. (if ≤19 years old, the civil 

penalty is $50). §321.218 

 Careless Driving168: Simple misdemeanor. §§321.277A and 321.482 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

Fine ($ Range): $25. §805.8(2)(af) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension. §321.210(1) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Not more than 1 year. §321.212(1)(a) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. A restricted license is available for employment, 

education or medical purposes. §321.215(1) 

Other: I. An offender is assessed an additional penalty of 30 percent 

of the fine imposed. §911.2 

II. Civil Penalty. If an offender's license is suspended, he/she 

is subject to a civil penalty of $200 (if ≤19 years old, the civil 

penalty is $50). §321.218A 

III. Road Work Zone. For a violation of the careless driving 

law in a road work zone, the fine is doubled. §§321.1(66) 

and 805.8A(14)(i) 

 

168"Careless driving" consists of intentionally operating a motor vehicle by (1) creating or causing unnecessary tire 

squealing, skidding or sliding upon acceleration or stopping, (2) simulating a temporary race, (3) causing any wheel or 

wheels to unnecessarily lose contact with the ground and (4) causing the vehicle to unnecessarily turn abruptly or sway. 

§321.277A 
89 SPEED 2005 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators169: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she commits 2 or more serious 

traffic offenses170 within a 3-year period. §321.208(4) 

Period of Disqualification: Two violations (within 3 years) — 60 days. 3 violations

(within 3 years) — 120 days. §321.208(4) 

 Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days. Three

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §§321.208 

and 321.215(4) 

 

169A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle to be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §321.1 170These violations include exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph and reckless driving. §321.208(4) 
SPEED 2005 90

JURISDICTION: KANSAS

General Reference: Kansas Statutes Annotated and Kansas Administrative 

Regulations 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: A person shall not operate a vehicle at a 

speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the 

conditions and having regard to the actual hazards than 

existing. §8-1557 

Statutory Speed Limit: 70 mph on multi-lane highways as designated by the State 

Secretary 

See Other below. of Transportation §8-1558(a)(2) 

65 mph on all other highways except a county or township 

highway §8-1558(a)(4) 

55 mph on a county or township highway §8-1558(a)(3) 

30 mph in an urban district §8-1558(a)(1) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. The State Secretary of Transportation may decrease the 

above speed limits.171 §8-1559(a)(1) 

II. The State Secretary of Transportation or local government 

authorities may establish a speed limit in a construction zone. 

§8-1559(a)(c) 

III. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, a local 

government may increase or decrease the above speed limits 

within its jurisdiction. However, the following limitations 

apply: (1) a speed limit cannot be established greater than 65 

mph; (2) outside an urban or residence district, the speed limit 

cannot be less than 20 mph; (3) within an urban district 

school zone, when students are going either to or from school, 

the speed limit cannot be less than 20 mph. §§8-1560(a) 

and(b) and 8-2002 

IV. Local authorities that have authority over a county or 

township may establish proper highway speed limits within 

these jurisdictions. Such speed limits may be established with 

or without an engineering or traffic investigation. However, 

no speed limit shall be established >65 mph. §8-1560(h) 

V. Local authorities, within their respective jurisdictions, may 

establish speed limits within construction zones. §8-1560(f) 

 

171The secretary may decrease such limits based either on engineering and traffic investigations or on other information that 

is available. Under no circumstances is the secretary authorized to increase a speed limit in excess of the statutory 

maximum limits. §8-1559(a) and (d). In addition, the State may establish different highway speed limits (1) for different 

types of vehicles (e.g., persons who operate certain types of trucks may be required to drive these vehicles at a slower speed 

than those who operate other types of motor vehicles), (2) at different times of the day, (3) for various weather conditions or

(4) for other factors bearing on safe speeds. §8-1559(b) 
91 SPEED 2005 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall operate a motor vehicle at such a slow 

speed as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of 

traffic. §8-1561(a) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §8-1514(b) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, either the 

State Secretary of Transportation or local government 

authorities may establish a minimum speed limit on any 

highway or part thereof. §8-1561(b) 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, either the 

State Sec. of Transportation or local government authorities 

may establish a maximum speed limit on any bridge or 

elevated structure.§8 — 1 563(c) and (d) 

 

Other: I. A motor-driven cycle shall not be operated at a speed 

greater than 35 mph. §8-1562 

II. A vehicle that is towing a house trailer shall not be 

operated at a speed greater than 55 mph. §8-1563(a) 

III. A vehicle equipped with solid rubber tires shall not be 

operated at a speed greater than 10 mph. §8-1563(b) 

IV. While traveling to or from a school, interschool or intraschool function or activity, a school bus cannot be driven (1) 

>45 mph on roadways having a dirt, sand or gravel surface or 

(2) >55 mph on other highways. §8-1558(b) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are traffic infractions. §§8-2116, 8-

2118 and 21-3105(2) 

Other: 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): None

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Not more than $500172 §21-4503a(d) 

 

172If a person either waives his/her right to a trial, pleads guilty or no contest to a traffic infraction, the fine imposed is 

determined via the uniform fine schedule. Under this schedule, the following fines are imposed for speeding offenses: I. 

For violating the basic speed rule, the fine is $60. For exceeding the speed limit by 1 to 10 mph, the fine is $30. For 

exceeding the speed limit by 11 to 20 mph, the fine is $30 plus $6 for every mph above 10 mph over the limit. For 

exceeding the speed limit by 21 to 30 mph, the fine is $90 plus $9 for every mph above 20 mph over the limit. For 

exceeding the speed limit by 31 mph, the fine is $180 plus $15 for every mph above 30 mph over the limit. II. For 
SPEED 2005 92

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: If an offender is subject to a license suspension because of 3 

moving violations within 12 months, he/she may be allowed 

to maintain driving privileges by attending a driver 

improvement clinic. §8-255(f) 

 

Other: Construction Zone: For speeding violations committed 

within a construction zone, the fine is double the usual 

amount for a speeding offense. §8-2118(e) 

 Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Revocation, Suspension or Restriction.173 §8-255(a)(1) and 

(2) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Not more than 1 year. §8-256 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Assessment. An offender is assessed $9 in addition to 

 any fine.174 §12-4117(a) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Class A, B or C misdemeanor.175 §§8-1565(a) and (d) and 8-

2116(b) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — not more than 1 month; second offense

(within 1 year) — not more than 6 months; third or 

subsequent offense (within 1 year) — not more than 1 year. 

§21-4502(1)(a), (b) and (c) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — not more than $500; second offense (within 1 

year) — not more than $1,000; third or subsequent offense

 

impeding the normal flow of traffic, the fine is $30. III. For speeding on a motor cycle, the fine is $60. IV. For exceeding 

the posted maximum safe speed on a bridge or elevated structure, the fine is $30. V. For not driving in the right-lane when 

proceeding at a speed less than the normal speed of traffic, the fine is $60. §8-2118(c) 173Basis for Revocation, Suspension or Restriction: The licensing agency is authorized to suspend an offender's license 

if the following conditions are satisfied: (1) the offender has committed numerous serious traffic law violations which 

indicate disrespect for the traffic laws; and (2) the offender has been convicted of 3 or more moving traffic law violations 

within a 12 month period (maintenance of driving privileges may be allowed if the offender attends a driver improvement 

clinic) . §8-255(a)(1) and (2) and (f). Exceeding an authorized limit of 55 mph but not exceeding 70 mph is not considered 

a moving violation for purposes of this section. §8-1560c 

174A first offense is a Class C misdemeanor. A second offense within 1 year is a Class B misdemeanor. A third or 

subsequent offense within 1 year is a Class A misdemeanor. §8-2116(b) 

175A first offense is a Class C misdemeanor. A second offense within 1 year is a Class B misdemeanor. A third or 

subsequent offense within 1 year is a Class A misdemeanor. §8-2116(b) 
93 SPEED 2005 

(within 1 year) — not more than $2,500. §21-4503a(b)(1), (2) 

and (3) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Revocation, Suspension or Restriction. §8-255(a)(1) and 

(2) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Not more than 1 year. §8-256 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License Withdrawal: None

Other: Assessment. An offender is assessed $9 in addition to any 

fine. §12-4117(a) 

Reckless Driving: Misdemeanor §8-1566(a) and (b) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — 5 to 90 days; second or subsequent offense 

— 10 days to 6 months. §8-1566(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $25 to $500; second or subsequent offense —

$50 to $500. §8-1566(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Revocation. §8-254(a)(5) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Not more than 1 year. §8-265 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. An offender may be issued restricted driving 

privileges. §8-254(b) 

 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators176

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she (1) commits 2 "serious traffic 

 

176A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §8-2,128(f) 177A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §8-2,128(v) 
SPEED 2005 94

violations" 177within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 such 

violations within a 3-year period. §8-2,142(f) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days. §8-2,142(f) 

 
95 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: KENTUCKY

General Reference: Kentucky Revised Statutes and Kentucky Administrative 

Regulations (KAR) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: A person shall not operate a vehicle at a 

greater speed than is reasonable and prudent, having regard 

for the traffic and for the condition and use of the highway. 

§189.390(2) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 65 mph on interstate highways and divided highways with 

four or more lanes178 §189.390(3)(a) and (5)(d) 

See Other below. 55 mph outside business or residential districts 

§189.390(3)(a) 

35 mph in business or residential districts §189.390(3)(a) 

15 mph on off-street parking facilities §189.390(c) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based upon engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Secretary of Transportation may increase or decrease the 

speed limits on any highway.179 However, the speed limit on 

highways, including interstate and 4-lane divided highways 

which are located in urbanized areas, cannot exceed 55 mph. 

§189.390(4)(a) 

II. With the approval of the State Secretary of Transportation, 

a local government may establish speed limits for the 

highways or streets within its jurisdiction. However, such 

limits cannot exceed 55 mph as noted in I above. 

§189.390(5)(a) and (b) 

III. State and local authorities may reduce the speed limits on 

highways under their respective jurisdictions for reasons of 

highway design or to reduce highway damage or deterioration 

due to rain or other natural causes. §189.230(1) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. A person shall not operate a motor vehicle at a speed that 

will impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of 

traffic. §189.390(6) 

II. A person driving a vehicle in a slow manner shall keep the 

vehicle as closely as practicable to the right-hand boundary of 

the highway. §189.300(2) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: 

Other: I. For vehicles with ≤5 horsepower, the maximum speed is 35 

mph in any location. §189.390(3)(b) 

 

178The interstate and divided highways must be fully controlled access highways. §189.390(5)(d) 179Note: Kentucky law does not specifically state whether different highway speed limits may be established either for 

different types of vehicles, for various weather conditions or for different times of the day. 
SPEED 2005 96

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

II. The Transportation Cabinet may establish temporary 

reduced speed limits in work zones. §189.390(4)(b) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law offenses are violations. §532.020(4) 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): None

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Speed Limit Violations — not more than $100.180 §189.394 

Other Violations — $20 to $100. §§189.990(1) and 

189.993(12) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: A person may be required to attend a State Traffic School.181 

§186.574 

 Other: N/A 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension.182 §§186.400, 186.570 and 186.572 and 601 

KAR 13:025 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): I. 90 days to 2 years for speeding violations except as noted. 

II. For speeding ≥26 mph over the speed limit — first offense 

 

180Fines for speed limit violations are determined via a matrix. This matrix establishes fines based upon the extent (i.e., 

number of miles per hour over the speed limit) the offender exceeded a specific speed limit (the prima facie speed limit). 

The fines range from $1 to $55. §189.394(1). For speeding violations in excess of those shown in the matrix, the fine 

range is $60 to $100. §189.394(2) Important. These fines are double the usual amount if the offense occurred in a work 

zone. §189.394(5) 

181The court may place an offender in this program in lieu of other sanctions. §186.574(1. Except for driver education 

requirements, a person is only eligible to attend traffic school once in any one year period. §186.574(5)(d) 

182Point System: I. Under the point system, an offender's license is suspended for 6 months if he/she accumulates 12 

points within a 2 year period. The suspension is 1 year for a second accumulation of 12 points and 2 years for a third or 

subsequent accumulation of 12 points within a two year period. II. The following points are assigned for speeding and 

speed-related offenses: (1) Speeding ≤15 mph over the speed limit — 3 points; speeding ≥16 mph but <26 mph over the 

speed limit — 6 points; reckless driving — 4 points; driving too fast or too slow for conditions — 3 points; careless driving 

— 3 points. 601 KAR 13:025. III. Statutory law prohibits the assessment of points for speeding 10 mph or less over the 

limit on limited access highways or limited access highways of four or more lanes on which the speed limit is 65 mph or 

more. §186.572. In an opinion, the State Attorney General has noted that is no statutory difference between reckless and 

careless driving but that the point assessment system, nevertheless, distinguishes between these offenses and assigns 

different point values to them. To clarify which point value that should be used, the State Attorney General has determined 

that the lower point value should be used in the interest of being lenient to the offender. OAG 78-771 
97 SPEED 2005 

— 90 days; second offense — not less than 1 year; 

subsequent offense — not less than 2 years. 601 KAR 

13:025 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: First offense — An offender may be placed on probation for 2 

years183 in lieu of license suspension. Subsequent offense —

If a person receives an additional conviction during the 

probation period, his/her license must be suspended. 601 

KAR 13:025 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Offenders <18 Years Old: These offenders may be allowed to 

participate in a court diversion program. Under this program, 

the court must (1) prohibit the offender from driving for not 

more than 45 days and/or (2) require him/her to complete a 

driver improvement clinic. §189.990(27) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

 Racing on Highway: Class B misdemeanor184 §§189.505, 189.993(5) and 532.020(3) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 30 days. §189.993(5) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): $60 to $200. §189.993(5) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension via the point system 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: 90 days to 2 years

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: First offense — An offender may be placed on probation for 2 

years5

 in lieu of license suspension; subsequent offense — If a 

person receives an additional conviction during the probation 

period, his/her license must be suspended. 601 KAR 13:025 

Other: A person may be required to attend a State Traffic School. 

§186.574 

Careless (Reckless) Driving185: Violation §§189.290(1), 189.990(1) and 532.020(4) 

Criminal: 

 

183A person who has been placed on probation cannot be plated in such status again until 2 years have passed since the end 

of the last probation period. 601 KAR 13:025 

184It is a violation to conduct a horse race on a highway. The only sanction for this offense is a fine of between $20 and 

$50. §§189.510, 189.990(7) and 532.020(4) 

185Under Kentucky law, the terms "careless driving" and "reckless driving" are used interchangeably. See OAG 78-771 and 

Hash v.Com, 883 S.W.2d 892 (Ky. App. 1992). 
SPEED 2005 98

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Fine ($ Range): $20 to $100. §189.990(1) 

 Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

 

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension or Revocation. §§186.560 and 186.570 and 601 

KAR 13:025 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 90 days to 2 years via the point system. 3 convictions within 

12 months — not less than a 2 year revocation.

§186.560(1)(e) and (5) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 3 convictions within 12 months — 2 year revocation.

(appears mandatory) §186.560(1)(e) and (5) 

Other: A person may be required to attend a State Traffic School. 

§186.574 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators186: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she (1) commits 2 "serious traffic 

violations"187 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 such 

violations within a 3-year period. §281A.190(6) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. 

§281A.190(6) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. 

§281A.190(6) 

 

186A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §281A.010(8) 187A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §281A.010(28) 
99 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: LOUISIANA

General Reference: West's Louisiana Statutes Annotated: Revised Statutes. Note: 

Citations are to the Revised Statutes unless otherwise stated. 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is 

reasonable and prudent under the conditions and potential 

hazards then existing, having due regard for the traffic on, and 

the surface and width of, the highway, and the condition of the 

weather. §32:64(A) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 70 mph on interstate and controlled access highways.188

§§32:61(A)(1) and 32:62(A) 

See Other below. 

65 mph on other multi-lane divided highways which have 

partial or no control of access. §§32:61(A)(2) and 32:62(A) 

55 mph on other highways. §§32:61(A) and 32:62(A) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

may increase or decrease the above speed limits.189 

§§32:61(B) and32:63(A) 

Legislative Requests: I. The Louisiana Legislature has 

requested that the State Department of Transportation and 

Development "increase the speed limit on Louisiana Highway 

23 in Plaquemines Parish on those sections of highway which 

are outside of the towns and only in those sections in which 

there are four-lane areas of roadway." House Concurrent 

Resolution 136 adopted in 1997. Note: The legislature did 

not recommend a speed limit. 

II. The Louisiana Legislature has requested that the State 

Department of Transportation and Development increase the 

speed limit on Interstate Highway 55 between Pontchatoula 

and LaPlace from 60 mph to 70 mph. House Concurrent 

Resolution 130 adopted in 1999 

Legislative Directive: The Louisiana Legislature has directed 

that the State Department of Transportation and Development 

lower the speed limit to 45 mph on Louisiana Highway 964 

from its intersection with 

 

 

188St. Tammany Parish and Adjacent Areas: The following speed limits apply in St. Tammany Parish and adjacent areas 

when, due to fog, visibility is ≤1,000 feet: Fifty-five (55) mph from the intersection of Interstates 10, 12 and 59 west to 

Louisiana Highway 433 (Old Spanish Trail); 45 mph west form the intersection of Interstate 10 and Louisiana Highway 

433 to the north shore foot of the Interstate 10 bridge that crosses Lake Pontchartrain; 35 mph west from the north shore 

foot of the Interstate 10 bridge that crosses Lake Pontchartrain to one (1) mile south of the foot bridge on the south shore. 

§32:63.1(A) 

189Note: Louisiana law does not specifically state whether different highway speed limits may be established for different 

types of vehicles, for various weather conditions or for different times of the day. 
SPEED 2005 100

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

Louisiana Highway 61 to the East Baton Rouge Parish line. 

Senate Concurrent Resolution 52 adopted in 1999 

II. The State can promulgate regulations regulating speed on 

Louisiana expressways. §48:1272 

III. Local governments are authorized to establish speed limits 

or speed zones. However, no speed limit shall be established 

in excess of the above maximum limits. §§32:41(A)(9) and 

32:42 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall operate a motor vehicle at such a slow 

speed as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of 

traffic. §32:64(B) 

 II. A person who is operating a motor vehicle on a multilane 

highway at less than the normal speed of traffic shall drive in 

the right-hand lane then available for traffic. §32:71(B)(1) 

III. A person who is operating a motor vehicle on a multilane 

highway at a speed slower than 10 mph than the posted speed 

limit shall drive in the right-hand lane than available for traffic 

or as close as practicable to the right hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §32:71(B)(2) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State may 

establish a minimum speed limit on any highway. §32:63(B). 

Note: Via signs, slower moving traffic may be directed to use 

designated lanes. §32:79(2) 

Other: I. No person shall operate a freight carrying vehicle upon a 

highway >55 mph. Exceptions: Such vehicles may not be 

driven (1) >70 mph on interstate or controlled access 

highways or (2) >65 mph on multi-lane divided highways. 

§32:62(A) 

II. No person shall tow a mobile home at a speed >45 mph.190

The State is authorized to increase this limit. §32:62(B) 

III. Except for tow trucks, no person shall tow a vehicle at a 

speed >45 mph. §32:62(C) 

IV. No person shall operate a school bus carrying children at a 

speed >55 mph.191 §32:62(D) 

V. A vehicle carrying a pre-cast fiberglass swimming pool 

shall not be operated at a speed >45 mph. §32:387.3(A) 

VI. A person shall not operate a log loader at a speed >40 

mph. §47:502.1(B) 

 

190If the mobile home is either (1) ≥15 feet but ≤30 feet and is equipped with brakes or (2) <15 feet and is not equipped with 

brakes, it may be towed at a speed ≤55 mph between sunrise and sunset and ≤50 mph between sunset and sunrise. 

§32:62(B) 

191However, if the school bus is making frequent stops discharging children, it cannot be operated at a speed >35 mph. 

§32:62(D) 
101 SPEED 2005 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are misdemeanors. §32:57(A) and 

Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 933 

Other: 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): First offense — not more than 30 days; subsequent offense 

— not more than 90 days.. §§32:57(A) and 47:502.1(B) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): First offense — not more than $175;192 Subsequent offense —

not more than $500. §§32:57(A) and 47:502.1(B) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: An offender may be required to attend a driver education, 

training or improvement program.193 Code of Criminal 

Procedure, Article 892.1 

 Other: A fee of $5 is assessed for the purpose of funding the 

Traumatic Head and Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund. 

§46:2633(B) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension, Revocation or Cancellation.194 §32:414(E)(3) 

and (4) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Not more than 1 year. §32:414(F)(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None195

 

192For persons who operate a log loader in excess of 40 mph, the fine for a first offense is not more than $100. 

§47:502.1(B) In all other respects, the sanctions for this offense are the same as for other speeding violations. 

193I. The court may suspend the sentence of first offenders (misdemeanor offenders under Title 32) and order them to 

attend this program. Upon completion of the program, the offender's conviction may be set aside. Code of Criminal 

Procedure, Article 892.1(B) and (C). II. For either first or subsequent offenders, the court may defer proceedings and 

allow an offender to participate in this program provided the following conditions are satisfied: (1) The offender pleads 

either nolo contendere or guilty to the charge; (2) the offender has not participated in such a program within 2 years; and, 

(3) the offense did not involve exceeding the posted speed limit by 25 mph or more. Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 

892.1(E). Upon completion of the course, the court sets aside the conviction. However, the court can only set aside one 

charge for each course completed. Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 892.1(H) 

194The licensing agency is authorized to suspend, revoke or cancel a person's license upon a showing either (1) that he/she 

has been convicted (or forfeited bail) on traffic offenses with such a frequency that indicates a disrespect for the traffic law 

or (2) he/she is a habitually reckless or negligent driver. §32:414(E)(3) and (4) 
SPEED 2005 102

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: A person who violates the speed limits on Louisiana 

expressways established via regulations promulgated under 

separate statutory authority is subject to imprisonment for not 

more than 90 days and/or a fine of not more than $200. 

§48:1272(A) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Drag Racing or Racing on the Highway: Misdemeanor §32:65 and Code of Criminal Procedure, 

Article 933 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — not more than 30 days; subsequent offense 

— not more than 90 days. §32:57(A) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — not more than $175; subsequent offense —

not more than $500. §32:57(A) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

 

 Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension, Revocation or Cancellation. §32:414(E)(3) and 

(4) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Not more than 1 year. §32:414(F)(2) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: None

Other: An offender may be required to attend a driver education, 

training or improvement program. Code of Criminal 

Procedure, Article 892.1 

Reckless Vehicle Operation196: Misdemeanor. §§14:2(4) and (6), 14:99 and Code of Criminal 

Procedure, Article 933 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — not more than 90 days; subsequent offense 

— 10 days to 6 months. §14:99 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

 195A person who has had his/her license suspended, revoked or cancelled for the first time may apply for driving privileges 

based on economic hardship; i.e., the loss of driving privileges would deprive the offender from earning a living. 

§32:415.1(A) 

196“Reckless operation” of a vehicle is defined as driving in a criminally negligent or reckless manner, §14:99, whereas, 

“careless operation” of a vehicle means driving so as to endanger the life, limb, or property of any person. §32:58 
103 SPEED 2005 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Fine ($ Range): First offense — not more than $200; subsequent offense —

$25 to $500. §14:99 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension, Revocation or Cancellation. §32:414(E)(3) and 

(4) suspension (mandatory) for 3 offenses within 12 months 

§32:414(B)(5) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Not more than 1 year. §32:414(F)(2) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None

Other: I. An offender may be required to attend a driver education, 

training or improvement program.6

 Code of Criminal 

Procedure, Article 892.1 

II. A fee of $5 is assessed for the purpose of funding the 

Traumatic Head and Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund. §46:2633 

Careless Vehicle Operation: Misdemeanor. §§14:2(4) and (6), 32:58 and Code of Criminal 

Procedure, Article 933 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — not more than 30 days; subsequent offense 

— not more than 90 days. §32:57(A) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — not more than $175; subsequent offense —

not more than $500. §32:57(A) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension, Revocation or Cancellation. §32:414(E)(3) and 

(4) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Not more than 1 year. §32:414(F)(2) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None8

Other: An offender may be required to attend a driver education, 

training or improvement program.6

 Code of Criminal 

Procedure, Article 892.1 
SPEED 2005 104

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators197: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she (1) commits 2 "serious traffic 

violations"198 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 such 

violations within a 3-year period. §32:414.2(5) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days. §32:414.2(5) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §32:414.2(5) 

 

197A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §32:401(5) 198A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. 

§32:414.2(A)(d)(i) and (ii). 
105 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: MAINE

General Reference: Maine Revised Statutes Annotated (MRSA) and Code of 

Maine Rules (CMR) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

 Basic Speed Rule: A person shall operate a vehicle at a careful and prudent speed 

not greater than is reasonable and proper having due regard to 

the traffic, surface and width of the way and of other 

conditions then existing. Title 29-A, §2074 

Statutory Speed Limit: 45 mph on all other public ways. Title 29-A, §2074(1)(D) 

Important: For maximum speed limits on the Maine 

Turnpike and interstate and divided controlled-access 

highways, see I under Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit below. 

25 mph in business or residential districts. Title 29-A, 

§2074(1)(C) 

15 mph when passing a school during recess or when the 

students are going to or leaving the school. Title 29-A, 

§2074(1)(A) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. The State is authorized to increase or decrease the above 

speed limits.199 However, no posted speed limit can exceed 65 

mph for the Maine Turnpike and interstate or divided 

controlled-access highways or 60 mph for all other roads. 

Title 23, §1973(2) and Title 29-A, §2073(1) 

II. A municipal authority may establish speed limits in public 

parks and the entrances to such parks and, within certain 

limitations, may alter speed limits on other highways200. Title 

29-A, §2075(3)(C) and (D) 

Minimum Speed Limit: A person may not operate a motor vehicle at such a slow 

speed as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of 

traffic. Title 29-A, §2075(1) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State may 

establish a minimum speed limit on a public way. Title 29-A, 

§2075(1) 

Other: I.A school bus may not be operated >45 mph when 

transporting students. At other times, such vehicles cannot 

 be operated at a speed >55 mph. Title 29-A, §2074(1)(E) 

 

199Note: Maine law does not specifically state whether different highway speed limits may be established either for 

different types of vehicles, for various weather conditions or for different times of the day. 

200A local government, other than a “qualifying municipality,” must obtain approval for any speed limit changes from the 

State Department of Transportation and the Chief of the State Police prior to changing the speed limits on non — public 

park highways. Title 29-A, §2075(3)(D). A “qualifying municipality” (a municipality with a population ≥2,500) may 

establish speed limit on its highways after notifying the State Department of Transportation that it intends to do so and after

conducting traffic investigations. Title 29-A, §2075(3)(E). 
SPEED 2005 106

II. A person may not operate a motorized bicycle or a 

motorized scooter >20 mph. Title 29-A, §2063(6) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: Speed Law violations are Non-Criminal traffic infractions. 

Title 29-A, §§101(85), 103(1) and 104 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, Etc.): None

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): $25 to $500.201 Title 29-A, §§103(3) and 2604 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): $25. Title 29-A, §104. For exceeding the 65 mph speed limit 

by <30 mph on the Maine Turnpike or an interstate highway 

— $50. Title 29-A, §2074(3-A) 

$10 forfeiture for a person ≥17 years old operating a 

motorized bicycle or motorized scooter >20 mph.

202 Title 29-

A, §2063(7) 

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: A person who completes a defensive driving course will have 

his/her demerit point total reduced by 3 points. This can only 

occur once in a 12-month period. CMR29-250-001 

 Other: School Zone: The scheduled fine is double the usual amount 

for exceeding the speed limit in a school zone. Title 29-A, 

§2074(3-B) 

Construction Zone: The scheduled fine is doubled for 

exceeding posted speed limits in a construction or 

maintenance zone. Title 29-A, §2075(2) 

Surcharges: Twelve percent and 2 percent surcharges must 

be imposed on any fine for the respective purposes of funding 

jail/criminal operations and the Community Policing Institute. 

4 MRSA §§1057 and 1057-A (scheduled for repeal September 

30, 2003.) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension203 Title 29-A, §§103(3) and 2458(2)(B) and (C) 

 

201Within these limits, the Chief Judge of the District Court establishes a fine schedule for traffic infractions. Title 4, 

§164(12)(B) 

202Discretionary Impoundment of Motorized Bicycle or Motorized Scooter: A person ≥17 years old who operates a 

motorized bicycle or motorized scooter >20 mph is subject to have the vehicle impounded as follows: for first offense 5 

days; for a second offense, 10 days; and for a third or subsequent offense, 30 days. Title 29-A, §2063(8) 203Point System: I. An offender's license may be suspended for up to 15 days if he/she accumulates 12 points within 1 

year. If the offender has had 3 previous suspensions within 3 years, he/she is subject to a suspension for up to 120 days. II. 

The following points are assigned for speeding or speed-related offenses: exceeding the speed limit by ≥15 but <30 mph — 

6 points; exceeding the speed limit by <15 mph — 4 points; excessive acceleration — 4 points; imprudent driving or 

speeding — 4 points; failure to reduce speed on curve-2 points; obstructing the flow of traffic-2 points; speed under the 

posted minimum-2 points; and, squealing tires-2 points. Title 29-A, §2458(2)(C) and (3) and CMR 29-250-001 
107 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation:

(continued) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): 15 days. 3 previous suspensions within 3 years — 120 days.

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None. Suspension action is discretionary with the licensing 

agency. 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: In addition to or in lieu of any other sanction for a traffic law 

violation, a court may suspend an offender's license for not 

more than 60 days. Title 29-A, §2418 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding204: 

Exceeding Speed Limit by 30 mph: Class E Crime. Title 29-A, §2074(3) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 6 months in the county jail. Title 17-A, 

§1252(2)(E) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. Title 17-A, §1301(1-A)(E) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension. Title 29-A, §2458(C) and CMR29-250-001(3) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: 30 days. Title 29-A, §2458(C) and CMR29-250-001(3) 

 (Chapter 1, 29A-250) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: None

Other: I. An offender may be sentenced to perform community 

service for the benefit of the State, a local government, a 

school district or other public entity. Title 17-A, §1345 

 II. In addition to or in lieu of any other sanction for a 

traffic law violation, a court may suspend an offender's license 

for not more than 60 days. Title 29-A, §2418 

III. Surcharges. Twelve percent and 2 percent surcharges 

must be imposed on any fine for the respective purposes of 

funding jail/criminal operations and the 

Community Policing Institute. 4 MRSA §§1057 and 1057-A 

 

 204Assault Related Revocations: If a person operates a motor vehicle in a manner which (1) causes bodily or serious 

bodily injury to another individual, (2) creates a substantial risk of serious bodily injury to another individual, or (3) places 

another individual in fear of imminent bodily injury and the person is convicted of any criminal offense related to assault, 

reckless conduct or threatening, his/her license is immediately and indefinitely revoked without a further hearing. The 

person may be issued a license after the following periods: (1) 3 years after discharge from incarceration for a Class A, B or 

C Crime; (2) 2 years after discharge from incarceration for a Class D Crime; or (3) 1 year after discharge from incarceration 

for a Class E Crime. Title 29-A, §2463 
SPEED 2005 108

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Driving to Endanger205: Class E Crime. Title 29-A, §2413(1). 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 6 months in the county jail. Title 17-A, 

§1252(1)(A) and (2)(E) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. Title 17-A, §1301(1-A)(E) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension. Title 29-A, §§2413(3) and 2458(2)(H) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 30 to 180 days Title 29-A, §2413(3) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 30 days. Title 29-A, §2413(3) 

 

 Other: I. An offender may be sentenced to perform community 

service for the benefit of the State, a local government, a 

school district or other public entity. Title 17-A, §1345 

II. In addition to or in lieu of any other sanction for a traffic 

law violation, a court may suspend an offender's license for 

not more than 60 days. Title 29-A, §2418 

III. Surcharges. Twelve percent and 2 percent surcharges 

must be imposed on any fine for the respective purposes of 

funding jail/criminal operations and the Community Policing 

Institute. 4 MRSA §§1057 and 1057-A 

 

205A person commits this offense if he/she operates a motor vehicle in a manner that endangers the property of another. 

This includes the property of either the operator or a passenger in the vehicle. Title 29-A, §2413(1) 
109 SPEED 2005 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators:

226

 Grounds for Suspension: A person's CDL is suspended if, while driving a CMV, 

 he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious traffic violations":227

 

 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 such violations 

 within a 3-year period. Title 29-A, §§1253(2)(C) and 

2458(2)(M) and CMR 29-250-006 (§5) 

 

206A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is a bus or is transporting hazardous materials which requires that the vehicle to be 

placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. Title 29-A, §101(17) 207A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. CMR 29-250-006 

§2(H)(1) and (2) 
SPEED 2005 110

Period of Suspension: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

 days. Three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less 

than 120 days. Title 29-A, §2458(2)(M) and CMR 29-250-

006 (§5) 

Period of Mandatory Suspension: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days. Three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. Title 29-A, 

§2458(2)(M) an and CMR 29-250-006 (§5) 
111 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: MARYLAND

General Reference: Annotated Code of Maryland. Most references are to the 

Transportation Article (Tran.) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: A person may not operate a vehicle at a speed that, with 

regard to the actual and potential dangers existing, is more 

than that which is reasonable and prudent under the 

conditions. Tran. §21-801(a) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 65 mph is the maximum speed limit 

that can be established on any highway. Tran. §21-801.1(e)(2) 

See Other below. 

55 mph on highways that are not interstate highways or 

expressways Tran. §21-801.1(b)(4) and (e)(1) 

50 mph on undivided highways except as noted below Tran. 

§21-801.1(b)(3) 

35 mph on divided highways in residential districts Tran. §21-

801.1(b)(2) 

30 mph on highways in business districts or on undivided 

highways in residential districts Tran. §21-801.1(b)(1) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Highway Administration may alter the above speed limits. 

Such alterations may provide for different speed limits (1) at 

specified times of the day, for certain weather conditions, for 

various types of vehicles, and for other reasons concerned 

with highway safety. However, no speed limit shall be (1) 

>65 mph on any highway or (2) >55 mph on highways which 

are not interstate highways or expressways. Tran. §§21-

801.1(d) and (e)(1) and (2), 21-802 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, local 

governments208 may establish posted speed limits.209 

However, a speed limit of >50 mph cannot be established in 

an urban district. In addition, a speed limit <25 mph cannot 

be established outside an urban district. Tran. §21-803 

III. A local government may establish a safe maximum speed 

limit for an alley. Tran. §21-803(e) 

IV. The State Highway Administration or a local government 

may establish a speed limit in a designated school zone that is 

within half-mile of a school on 

 

208County boards of education and university and college officials have the authority to establish speed limits on property 

within their jurisdictions. Tran. §21-803.2 

209With the exception of the City of Baltimore, the State Highway Administration must approve the alteration of a speed 

limit on a State highway by a local authority. Tran. §21-803(d) 
SPEED 2005 112

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

highways under their respective jurisdictions.210 However, 

such speed limit cannot be >35 mph in a school zone where a 

school crossing guard is present. Tran. §21-803.1(a), (e) and 

(f) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. A person shall not willfully operate a motor vehicle at such 

a slow speed as to impede the normal and reasonable 

movement of traffic. Tran. §21-804(a) 

II. A person who is driving a vehicle (1) at 10 mph or more 

below the posted speed limit or (2) at less than the normal 

speed of traffic shall drive in the right-hand lane then 

available for traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand 

curb or edge of the roadway. Tran. §21-301(b) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Highway Administration or a local government may establish 

a minimum speed limit on a highway or part thereof. Tran. 

§§21-804(b) and 21-1409 

Other: I. The State Highway Administration, a county, a municipal 

corporation, or Baltimore City may reduce speed limits in 

highway work zones. Tran. §§1-101(e) and 21-802.1 

II. A school bus cannot be operated at a speed >50 mph while 

carrying any passengers. Tran. §21-806(a) 

III. Following an investigation, the State Highway 

Administration may establish a maximum safe speed for any 

bridge or elevated structure. Tran. §21-806(b) 

IV. Certain "dump trucks" cannot be operated at a speed >45 

mph when loaded. This restriction does not apply on divided 

highways with two or more lanes in each direction. Tran. 

§13-919(g) 

V. A person cannot ride a motor scooter on a highway with a 

posted speed limit >50 mph or a speed >30 mph. Tran. §21-

1205.1(a)(1) and (c) 

VI. Low speed vehicles211 may not be driven on: 

 (1) highway for which the posted maximum speed limit 

exceeds 30 miles per hour; 

 (2) on an expressway or another controlled access highway; 

 (3) on a highway on which driving a low speed vehicle is 

prohibited by a county or municipal ordinance; or 

 (4) across a highway for which the posted maximum

speed limit exceeds 45 miles per hour, except at an 

intersection that is controlled by: 

 

 

210Under other statutory authority, a county or a municipality within a county may establish a speed limit of 15 mph in a 

school zone during school hours. Tran. §21-803(b)(2) 

211 "Low speed vehicle" means a four-wheeled electric vehicle that has a maximum speed capability that exceeds 20 miles 

per hour but is less than 25 miles per hour. §11-130.1.
113 SPEED 2005 

 (i) a traffic control signal; or 

 (ii) a stop sign at each approach to the intersection. 

§21-1123. 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are misdemeanors. Tran. §27-101(a) 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): None

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Not more than $500. Tran. §27-101(b) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: 

 Other: School Zone: A fine double what would otherwise apply but 

not more than $1,000 may be imposed for exceeding a school 

zone speed limit. Tran. §27-101(r) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension or Revocation via a point system212

 

 

212Point System: If a person accumulates 8 points (16 points if the offender is required to drive in the course of 

employment) or 12 points (19 points if the offender is required to drive in the course of employment) within 2 years, he/she 

is subject respectively to either a license suspension or revocation. Tran. §§16-404(a)(3) and 16-405(b). An initial 

suspension is from 2 to 30 days; a subsequent suspension is from 15 to 90 days. A person who has had his/her license 

revoked is subject to the following revocation periods: 6 months if it is the offender's first revocation; 1 year if it is the

offender's second revocation; 18 months if it is the offender's third revocation; and, 2 years of it is the offender's fourth or 

subsequent revocation. Tran. §§16-208(b) and 16-404(c)(1). Note: For persons <18 years old, suspension is for 6 months 

if they accumulate 6 points and is for 1 year if they accumulate 2 additional points. Tran. §16-206(b). These suspensions 

may be modified (i.e., they are not mandatory). Tran. §16-206(c)(5). The following points are assessed for speeding 

offenses and speed-related law violations: Speeding ≥10 mph over the posted speed limit-2 points; aggressive driving — 5 

points; reckless driving — 6 points; speeding ≥30 mph over the posted speed limit — 5 points; participating in a race or 

speed contest on a highway — 5 points; and exceeding the 65 mph posted speed limit by ≥20 mph — 5 points. Tran. §16-

402(a) Provisional Licensee: A person who holds a provisional license is subject to the following sanctions, which are in 

addition to any other sanctions for a conviction of a moving violation that requires the assessment of points. First offense 

— the offender is required to attend a “driver improvement program;” second violation-An offender’s license may be 

suspended for not more than 30 days; and, third or subsequent violation-An offender’s license may be suspended for not 

more than 180 days. Tran. §16-213(c). Note: A provisional license is generally issued to persons who are less than 18 

years old. Except for activities related to employment, education or athletic events, a provisional licensee can only operate 

a motor vehicle while “unsupervised” between the hours of 5 A.M. to midnight. Tran. §§16-103(c) and 16-113(d) 
SPEED 2005 114

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Not more than 2 years

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

Withdrawal: None. If a suspension or revocation would adversely affect an 

offender's employment or opportunity for employment, such 

licensing action may be declined, canceled or modified. Tran. 

§16-405(a) 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Notification: If a minor (a person <18 years old) is charged 

with a speeding offense where the speed was ≥20 mph over 

the speed limit, the State notifies the cosigner of the minor's 

license of the charge. Art. 1, §24(b)(2) and Tran. §21-808 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Race or Speed Contest on a Highway: Misdemeanor. Tran. §§21-1116(a) and 27-101(a) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): None.

Mandatory Minimum Term: 

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $500. Tran. §27-101(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None.

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension or Revocation via a point system.

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Not more than 2 years.

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: None. If a suspension or revocation would adversely affect an 

offender's employment or opportunity for employment, such 

licensing action may be declined, canceled or modified. Tran. 

§16-405(a) 

Other: 

Reckless Driving213: Misdemeanor. Tran. §§21-901.1(a) and 27-101(a) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): None.

 

213"Reckless driving" is defined as operating a motor vehicle either (1) in wanton or willful disregard for the safety of 

persons or property, or (2) in a manner that indicates a wanton or willful disregard for the safety of persons or property. 

Tran. §21-901.1(a) 
115 SPEED 2005 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. Tran. §27-101(g) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None.

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension or Revocation via a point system. 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Not more than 2 years.

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. If a suspension or revocation would adversely affect an 

offender's employment or opportunity for employment, such 

licensing action may be declined, canceled or modified. Tran. 

§16-405(a) 

Other: N/A 

Negligent Driving214: Misdemeanor. Tran. §§21-901.1(b) and 27-101(a) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): None.

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $500. Tran. §27-101(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None.

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension or Revocation via a point system. 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Not more than 2 years.

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. If a suspension or revocation would adversely affect an 

offender's employment or opportunity for employment, such 

licensing action may be declined, canceled or modified. Tran. 

§16-405(a) 

Other: 

 Aggressive Driving:215 Misdemeanor. Tran. §§21-901.2 and 27-101(b) 

 Sanction: 

 Criminal: 

 Imprisonment (Term): None. 

 

 

214"Negligent driving" is defined as operating a motor vehicle in a careless or imprudent manner that endangers any 

property or the life or person of any individual. Tran. §21-901.1(b) 

215 Aggressive Driving is defined as violating three or more of the following provisions “during a single and continuous 

period of driving”: (1) Tran. §21-202 (Traffic Lights with Steady Indication); (2) Tran. §21-303 (Overtaking and Passing 

Vehicles); (3) Tran. §21-304 (Passing on Right); (4) Tran. §21-309 (Driving on Laned Roadways): (5). Tran. §21-310 

(Following Too Closely); (6) Tran. §21-403 (Failure to Yield Right-of-Way): and (7) Tran. §21-801.1 (Exceeding a 

Maximum Speed Limit). §21-901.2 
SPEED 2005 116

Aggressive Driving

(continued)

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

 Fine ($ Range): Not more than $500. Tran §27-101(b) 

 Mandatory Minimum Fine: None. 

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

 Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension or Revocation via a point system. 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Not more than 2 years.

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. If a suspension or revocation would adversely affect an 

offender's employment or opportunity for employment, such 

licensing action may be declined, canceled or modified. Tran. 

§16-405(a) 

Other: N/A 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators216;

Grounds for Disqualification: 

A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

traffic violations" 217 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 

such violations within a 3-year period. Tran. §16-812(f) and 

(g) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days. Three

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. Tran. §16-

812(f) and (g) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days. Three

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. Tran. §16-

812(f) and (g) 

 

216 A person who has obtained a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs, is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. Tran. §11-

109.1(a) 

217 A “serious traffic violation” includes excessive speeding as defined by the U.S. Department of Transportation 

(exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph) or reckless driving. Tran. §16-803(h)(1)(i) and (ii) 
117 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: MASSACHUSETTS

This chapter summarizes Massachusetts State statutes related 

to speed. 

General Reference: Massachusetts General Laws Annotated and Code of 

Massachusetts Regulations (CMR) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall "run" a motor vehicle at a rate of speed 

greater than is reasonable and proper, having regard to traffic 

and the use of the way and the safety of the public.218 Ch. 90, 

§17 

Statutory Speed Limit: 65 mph on certain parts of interstate highways.219 Ch. 90, 

§17A 

See Other below. 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: The State or a local government may regulate the speed limit 

on a highway. Ch. 90, §18 Note: Massachusetts law does not 

specifically state whether different highway speed limits may 

be established for different types of vehicles, for various 

weather conditions, or for different times of the day. 

Minimum Speed Limit: No person shall drive in such a manner as to obstruct 

unnecessarily the normal movement of traffic upon a highway. 

720 CMR 9.06(6)(a) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: 

Other: I. No vehicle with a load of weighing >4 tons when equipped 

with metallic tire shall be operated at a speed >4 mph. Ch. 85, 

§31 

II. Certain State agencies have the authority to regulate speed 

on certain roads or highways under their jurisdiction. The 

regulations governing these speed limits are not reported in 

detail.220

III. Except on limited access highways, a school bus 

 shall not be driven >40 mph while actually engaged in 

 carrying school children. Ch. 90, §17 

IV. A motorized bicycle shall not be driven at speed >25 mph. 

Ch. 90, §1B 

 

218It is prima facie evidence of a violation of this rule if a person operates a motor vehicle in excess of the following speed 

limits: (1) >50 mph on a divided highway outside a thickly populated business district; (2) >40 mph on any other highway 

outside a thickly populated business district; (3) >30 mph inside a thickly populated business district; (4) >20 mph in an 

established school zone; and, (5) >15 mph in the vicinity of a vehicle which is selling merchandise and is displaying 

flashing amber lights. Ch. 90, §17 

200This speed limit applies “on interstate highway route 90, the Massachusetts Turnpike, between the New York state 

border and the Westfield interchange, and from the Ludlow interchange to the Auburn interchange, interstate highway route 

91 from the Vermont border to Northampton, Exit 21, and interstate 95 from the Newbury interchange 56 to the Danvers 

interchange 50...” Ch. 90, §17A 

220E.g., 321 CMR 3.01(1)(g) which regulates speed on roads in wildlife management areas; 350 CMR 4.01(2) which 

regulates speed on roads controlled by the Metropolitan District Commission; 740 CMR 11.05(2) which regulates speed on 

the Maurice J. Tobin Bridge; 304 CMR 12.23(1) and (2) which regulates speed in certain forests and parks; and, 740 CMR 

21.51(6) which regulates speed on roads around certain airports. 
SPEED 2005 118

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: Speed violations are Civil Motor Vehicle infractions. Ch. 

90C, §1 

Other: 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): None.

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Basic Speed Rule, Speed Limit Violations — not less than 

$50.221 If the offender was exceeding the speed limit by >10 

mph, an additional fine of $10 per mph over the speed limit. 

Ch. 90, §20. The fine is doubled for exceeding the posted 

speed limit in a construction zone. Ch. 90, §17 

Exceeding 4 mph While Operating Vehicles with Metallic 

Tires with a Load >4 Tons — not more than $100. Ch. 85, 

§32 

Driving a Motorized Bicycle >25 mph — first offense — A 

fine of not less than $25. Second offense — A fine of not less 

than $25 nor more than $50. Subsequent offense — a fine of 

not less than $50 nor more than $100. Ch. 90, §1B 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None.

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: 

 Other: A surcharge of $25 is assessed for the Head Injury Treatment 

Services Trust Fund. Ch. 90, §20 

Licensing Action: IMPORTANT. Action is limited to certain speed law 

violations.222

 

221I. Heavy Vehicles. A person who violates the speed laws when operating any motor vehicle, trailer, semi-trailer, semitrailer unit or tandem unit, operating under a permit issued under Ch. 85, §§30 and 31A, and which is over weight, is 

subject to the following fine sanctions: first offense — not more than $100; second offense within 12 months — $100 to 

$150; and, subsequent offense — $150 to $300. Ch. 90, §20. 

II. Exceeding the 65 mph Speed Limit on Interstate Highways. Although the law is not clear, it appears that the 

following sanctions (the general sanctions for a violation of the traffic laws) apply to this violation: first offense — $35; 

second offense within 12 months — $35 to $75; and a subsequent offense within 12 months — $75 to $150. Ch. 90, §20. 

203I. For a violation of either the Basic Speed Rule (Ch. 90, §17) or a Posted Speed Limit (Ch. 90, §18) — third or 

subsequent offense (within 12 months) — Revocation for at least 30 days. Ch. 90, §20. A 30-day revocation period 

appears to be mandatory. II. For persons <18 years old who hold a “junior operator’s license” and who violate either the 

Basic Speed Rule (Ch. 90, §17), the 65 mph speed limit (Ch. 90, §17A) or a Posted Speed Limit (Ch. 90, §18) — second 

offense — Suspension for 180 days (mandatory) and third or subsequent offense — Suspension for 1 year 

(mandatory). Ch. 90, §20 . III. The State licensing agency has the authority to either suspend or revoke a person's driving 

privilege based on a violation of the traffic laws if it believes that the violation was of such a nature that continuing to allow 

the offender to drive would "constitute an immediate threat to the public safety." Ch. 90, §22(a) 
119 SPEED 2005 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Drag Racing: Civil Motor Vehicle infraction. Ch. 90, §17B and Ch. 90C, §1 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): None.

Mandatory Minimum Term: 

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $100 to $500. Subsequent offense — $200 to 

$1,000. Ch. 90 §17B 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None.

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension. Ch. 90, §§17B and 20 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: First offense (all offenders) — not less than 30 days. 

Subsequent offense — not less than 60 days. Ch. 90 §17B 

 For persons <18 years old who hold a “junior operator’s 

license” — second offense — 180 days. Third or subsequent 

offense — 1 year. Ch. 90, §20 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: First offense (all offenders) — 30 days. Subsequent offense 

— 60 days. Ch. 90 §17B The minimum suspension period 

appears to be mandatory. 

 For persons <18 years old who hold a “junior operator’s 

license” — second offense — 180 days. Third or subsequent 

offense — 1 year. Ch. 90, §20 

Other: N/A 

Racing on the Highway223: Misdemeanor. Ch. 90, §24(2)(a) and Ch. 274, §1 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Two weeks to 2 years. Ch. 90, §24(2)(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None.

Fine ($ Range): $20 to $200. Ch. 90, §24(2)(a) 

 

223Although the State does not have a specific crime entitled "racing on the highway", it does make it an offense to operate 

a motor a vehicle on a highway upon a bet or wager in a race or for the purpose of making a record. Ch. 90, §24(2)(a) 
SPEED 2005 120

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None.

 Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Revocation. Ch. 90, §24(2)(b) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — At least 60 days. Subsequent offense within 

3 years-at least 1 year. Ch. 90, §24(2)(c) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — 60 days. Subsequent offense within 3 years 

— 1 year. Ch. 90, §24(2)(c) 

Other: The registrations of any vehicles owned by the offender may 

be revoked. Ch. 90, §24(2)(b) 

Reckless Driving224: Misdemeanor. Ch. 90, §24(2)(a) and Ch. 274, §1 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Two weeks to 2 years. Ch. 90, §24(2)(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None.

Fine ($ Range): $20 to $200. Ch. 90, §24(2)(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None.

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Revocation. Ch. 90, §24(2)(b) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — At least 60 days. Subsequent offense within 

3 years-at least 1 year. Ch. 90, §24(2)(c) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. The licensing agency may rescind the revocation at 

any time. Ch. 90, §24(2)(c) 

Other: The registrations of any vehicles owned by the offender may 

be revoked. Ch. 90, §24(2)(b) 

Surcharge.225 A defendant must pay a surcharge of $250 for 

the purpose of funding head injury treatment services. Ch. 90 

§24(2)(a) 

 

224The law makes it an offense to operate a motor vehicle either (1) recklessly or (2) “negligently so that the lives or safety 

of the public might be endangered....” Ch. 90, §24(2)(a) 

206This surcharge only applies to violations of the law related to negligent driving that endangers either lives or the public’s 

safety. 
121 SPEED 2005 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators226: 

 Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle the/she (1) commits 2 "serious traffic 

violations"227 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 such 

violations within a 3-year period. Ch. 90F, §9(E) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days: three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days. Ch. 90F, §9(E) 

 Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. Ch. 90F, §9(E) 

 

226A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. Ch. 90F, §1 227A "serious traffic violation" includes excessive speed as determined by the U.S. Department of Transportation 

(exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph), operating a motor vehicle as to endanger or reckless driving. Ch. 90F, §1 
SPEED 2005 122

 JURISDICTION: MICHIGAN

This chapter summarizes Michigan State statutes related to 

speed. 

General Reference: Michigan Compiled Laws Annotated 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: A person shall operate a vehicle at a careful 

and prudent speed not greater than nor less than is reasonable 

and proper, having due regard to the traffic, surface, and width 

of the highway and of any other condition then existing. 

§257.627(1) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 70 mph on parts of freeways under a special speed study. 

§257.628(7) 

See Other below. 65 mph, except as noted above, on freeways. §257.628(7) 

55 mph on other highways. §257.628(1) 

25 mph (prima facie unlawful speed) in business or residence 

districts, in public parks or in school zones.228 §§257.627(2) 

and 257.627a(2) 

25 mph on county highways or interconnected group of 

county highways not more than 1 mile in total length that 

connect with a county road system. §257.628(3) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Notwithstanding the above speed limits and based on 

engineering and traffic investigations, State and local 

governments may establish maximum speed limits on 

highways under their jurisdictions. However, not more than 

170 miles of the State’s freeways shall have a speed limit <65 

mph. §258.628(1) and (7) Note: Michigan law does not 

specifically state whether different highway speed limits may 

be established for different types of vehicles, for various 

weather conditions, or for different times of the day. 

II. Local authorities may increase or decrease the 25 mph 

speed limit in a school zone.1

 §§257.627a(4) and 

257.606(1)(k) 

III. Local authorities may increase the prima facie speed limits 

within their jurisdictions. However, a 

 prima facie speed limit outside either a business or residential 

district shall not be <25 mph. A prima facie speed limit of not 

<15 mph may be established 

 

228The prima facie speed limit in a school zone is in force (1) from not less than 30 minutes but not more than 1 hour before 

school is in session to not less than 30 minutes but nor more than 1 hour after school is in session and (2) during school 

lunch periods when students are allowed to leave the school. §257.627a(2) 

 If, in order to attend classes, school children must cross a state highway with a speed limit ≥35 mph, the State 

Transportation Commission, at the request of school authorities and based upon traffic engineering studies, may reduce the 

speed limit at designated school crossing zones. §257.627a(5) 

If the street in the school zone has a sidewalk on at least one side, the speed limit in the zone may be established at not less 

than 15 mph below the regularly posted speed limit. In no situation shall the limit be established at <25 mph. 

§257.627(a)(6) 
123 SPEED 2005 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) for publicly owned parks or playgrounds. §257.629(1) and (4) 

IV. A municipal government may establish speed limits on the 

properties of any board of education, school district or 

community college district located within its jurisdiction. 

§257.961 

V. When a state of emergency exists, the governor may reduce 

the speed limit on any street, highway or freeway via 

executive order. §257.629b(1) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. See the Basic Speed Rule above. 

II. The minimum speed limit on freeways is 45 mph. 

§257.628(7) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, State and 

local governments may establish minimum speed limits on 

highways under their jurisdictions. §258.628(1) 

Other: I. A person operating a passenger vehicle which is towing 

another vehicle shall not drive >55 mph.229 §257.627(5) 

II. A person operating a truck weighing ≥10,000 lbs. shall not 

drive >55 mph.230 §257.627(6) 

III. A person shall not operate a school bus >50 mph (>55 

mph on a limited access highway or freeway). §§257.627(7), 

257.627b and 257.1861 

IV. Unless a special speed limit has been established, a person 

shall not operate a motor vehicle in a designated work area 

>45 mph. §257.627(9) 

V. A person shall not exceed the maximum safe posted speed 

limit that has been established for a bridge, causeway or 

viaduct. §257.631(1) 

VI. In the Lower Peninsula, towed mobile homes >14-1/3 feet 

wide are prohibited from traveling either >45 mph or <10 mph 

below the speed limit whichever is lower. §257.719b(d) 

VII. It is prima facie unlawful to operate a vehicle >15 mph in 

a mobile park home. §257.627(4) 

VIII. Certain combinations of vehicles shall not be operated a 

speed >15 mph.231 §257.719(4)(a) 

 

229This limit does not apply if (1) "vehicle or trailer has 2 wheels or less and does not exceed the combined weight of 750 

pounds for the vehicle or trailer and load, or a trailer coach of not more than 26 feet in length with brakes on each wheel 

and attached to the passenger vehicle with an equalizing or stabilizing coupling unit." §257.627(5) 

230If reduced loading is being enforced on any highway, the maximum speed is 35 mph. §257.627(6) 231The combinations include the following: (1) A truck hauling more than 1 trailer or semi-trailer; and (2) a truck tractor 

hauling more than 2 semi-trailers or 1 semi-trailer and a trailer. However, this reduced speed does not apply (1) to farm 

tractors hauling 2 wagons, (2) to garbage or refuse trucks hauling up to 4 trailers (with a combined length of not >55 feet). 

§257.719(4)(a) 
SPEED 2005 124

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: Except as noted, speed law violations are Civil infractions. 

§§257.627(10), 257.628(6), 257.629(6) and 257.629b(2) 

Other: Misdemeanor offenses: (1) Exceeding the speed limit in a 

school zone or (2) driving a school bus in excess of 55 mph 

limit on a limited access highway or freeway. §§257.627a, 

257.627b and 257.901 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): Civil infraction-N/A

Misdemeanor — not more than 90 days. §257.901 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Civil infraction: Only a fine is imposed for a Civil infraction. 

The actual fine that is to be imposed on an offender is 

determined by a fine schedule that is established by each 

district or municipal court. However, a person who is 

operating a commercial motor vehicle at the time of the 

offense is subject to a civil infraction fine of not more than 

$250. §§257.907(3) and (7) and 600.8827(5) 

Misdemeanor: Not more than $100. §257.901 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): Civil infraction: A mandatory fine is imposed for speedingrelated to exceeding the maximum speed limit on a highway 

or freeway.232 Note: Mandatory minimum fines could be 

established by the courts via the fine schedule. 

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: A person may be required to attend a traffic education 

program. §257.907(5) 

 Other: Costs between $5 and $100 are assessed for speeding while 

operating a commercial motor vehicle. §257.907(4) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system.233 §§257.320(1)(d) and 

 

232The following mandatory fines apply to persons who exceed the speed limit on highways or freeways with a maximum 

speed limit ≥55 mph: 1 to 5 mph over the limit — $10; 6 to 10 mph over the limit — $20; 11 to 15 mph over the limit — 

$30; 16 to 25 mph over the limit — $40; and, ≥26 mph over the limit — $50. §257.629c 233Point System: I. A person's license is subject to suspension for not more than 1 year if he/she accumulates 12 points 

within a 2 year period. §257.320. II. The following points are assigned for speeding and speed-related violations: felony 

resulting from the operation of a motor vehicle — 6 points; reckless driving — 6 points; death or injury to a person in a 

construction zone or who is operating an implement of husbandry — 6 points; exceeding the limit in a work zone by >15 

mph — 5 points; drag racing — 4 points; exceeding the speed by >15 mph — 4 points; careless driving — 3 points; 

exceeding the speed by >10 mph but ≤15 mph — 3 points; and exceeding the speed limit by ≤10 mph-2 points. 

§257.320a(1)(a), (e), (g), (i), (k) and (l) III. However, the following points are assessed for exceeding the speed limit on 

highways where the speed limit is ≥55 mph if the offender has responded "with an explanation" to a civil infraction: 1 to 5 

mph over the limit-no points; 6 to 10 mph over the limit — 1 point; 11 to 15 mph over the limit-2 points; 16 to 25 mph over 

the limit — 3 points; and, ≥26 mph over the limit — 4 points. §257.629c 
125 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation:

(continued) 

 (2) and 257.320a 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Not more than 1 year. §257.320(4) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None.

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Important: I. A person who commits a moving violation (e.g. 

speeding violation) in a construction or school zone is subject 

to a fine that is double that otherwise prescribed by law. 

§257.601b. II. A driver who commits a moving violation 

(including a speed violation) that results in an injury to a 

person while such person is in a construction zone or 

operating an implement of husbandry commits a misdemeanor 

and is subject to imprisonment for not more than 1 year and/or 

a fine of not more than $1,000. For a Second offense, a 

person is subject to license revocation for not less than 1 year 

(mandatory). 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

Not Included Elsewhere: III. A driver who commits a moving violation (including a 

speed violation) that results in the death of a person when such 

person is in a construction zone or is operating am implement 

of husbandry commits a felony and is subject to imprisonment 

for not more than 15 years and/or a fine of not more than 

$7,500. For a first offense, a person is subject to license 

revocation for not less than 1 year (mandatory). For a second 

or subsequent offense (within 7 years), he/she is subject to 

license revocation for not less than 5 years (mandatory). 

§§257.303(2) and (4), 257.601b, 257.601c and 777.12 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Drag Racing on Highway234: Misdemeanor. §§257.626a and 257.901(1) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 90 days. §257.901(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None.

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $100. §257.901(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None.

 

234The offense of "drag racing" on a highway is defined as operating a motor vehicle either (1) in a speed or acceleration 

contest, (2) for the purpose of making a record, or (3) where 2 or more vehicles accelerate in an attempt to out-distance 

each other. §257.626a 
SPEED 2005 126

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension via the point system. §§257.320(1)(d) and (2) and 

257.320a(1) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Not more than 1 year. §257.320(4) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: None.

Other: 

Careless or Negligent Driving235: Civil infraction. §§257.626b and 257.907 

 Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): None.

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

 Fine ($ Range): Only a fine is imposed for a civil infraction. The actual fine 

that is to be imposed on an offender is determined by a fine 

schedule that is established by each district or municipal court. 

However, a person who is operating a commercial motor 

vehicle at the time of the offense is subject to a civil infraction 

fine of not more than $250. §§257.907(3) and (7) and 

600.8827(5) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: Note: A mandatory minimum fine could be established by the 

courts. 

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via the point system. §§257.320(1)(d) and (2) 

and 257.320a(1) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Not more than 1 year. §257.320(4) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None.

Other: N/A 

 

235This offense is defined as the operation of a vehicle in a careless or negligent manner which is likely to endanger any 

person or property but where such action was without wantonness or recklessness. §257.626b 
127 SPEED 2005 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Reckless Driving236: Misdemeanor. §§257.626(a) and 257.901(1) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 90 days. §257.626(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None.

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $100. §257.626(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None.

Administrative Licensing Actions: Suspension via the point system. §§257.320(1)(d) and (2) and 

257.320a(1) 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension/Revocation. §§257.303(2)(a) and 257.319(3)(b) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — Suspension for 90 days. Second offense 

(within 7 years) — Revocation for 1 year. However, the 

revocation is for 5 years if the offender had a previous 

revocation within 7 years. §§257.303(4)(a)(i) and (ii) and 

257.319(3)(b) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: The above licensing actions appear to be mandatory. 

Other: 

Felonious Driving237: Felony. §257.626c 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 2 years. §257.626c 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: Possible. Depending upon the circumstances and the number 

of prior offenses, there may be a minimum jail sentence via 

the State’s Sentencing Guidelines under Chapter 777. 

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $2,000. §257.626c 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None.

 

236A person commits a misdemeanor if he/she operates a motor vehicle in a careless or reckless manner but not willfully or 

wantonly and causes an accident involving a pregnant woman that results in either a miscarriage or stillbirth. The sanctions 

for this offense are incarceration for not more than 2 years and/or a fine of not more than $2,000. §750.90e. Depending 

upon the circumstances and the number of prior offenses, there may be a minimum jail sentence via the State’s Sentencing 

Guidelines under Chapter 777. 

237Felonious driving is defined as operating a motor vehicle "carelessly and heedlessly in willful and wanton disregard of 

the rights or safety of others, or without due caution and circumspection and at a speed or in a manner so as to endanger or 

be likely to endanger any person or property resulting in a serious impairment of a body function of a person, but does not 

cause death...." §257.626c “Serious impairment of a body function” includes, but is not limited to: (a) loss of a limb, foot, 

hand, finger, thumb, eye, ear, or the loss of use thereof; (b) substantial impairment of a body function; (c) serious 

disfigurement; or (d) a comatose state lasting more than 3 days; (3) measurable brain or mental impairment; (f) a skull 

fracture or serious bone fracture; (g) subdural hemorrhage or subdural hematoma; or (h) loss of an organ. §257.58c 
SPEED 2005 128

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension. §257.319(2)(c). Also, suspension via the point 

system. §§257.320(1)(d) and 257.320a(1) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: I. 1 year. §257.319(2)(c) 

II. Suspension via the point system — not more than 1 year 

§257.320(4) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: I. 1 year. §257.319(2)(c) 

II. Suspension via the point system — none 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators238: 

Grounds for Suspension: A person's CDL is suspended if, while driving a CMV, he/she 

(1) commits two serious traffic violations239 within a 36-

month period or (2) commits 3 such violations within a 36-

month period. §257.319b(1)(a) and (b) 

Period of Suspension: Two serious violations (within 36 months) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 36 months) — 120 days. 

§257.319b(1)(a) and (b) 

Period of Mandatory Suspension: Two serious violations (within 36 months) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 36 months) — 120 days. 

§257.319b(1)(a) and (b) 

 

238A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥10,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §480.11a(2)(c) 239A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or careless driving. §257.319b(4)(b) 
129 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: MINNESOTA

General Reference: Minnesota Statutes Annotated 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: I. No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed 

greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions. 

§169.14, subds. 1 and 3 

II. Driving with Due Care: “Every driver is responsible for 

becoming and remaining aware of the actual and potential 

hazards then existing on the highway and must use due care in 

operating a motor vehicle.” §169.14, subd. 1 

Statutory Speed Limit: A speed in excess of the following limits is prima facie

evidence that such a speed is not reasonable and prudent. 

§169.14, subd. 2 

See Other below. 1) 70 mph on interstate highways outside urban area limits. . 

§169.14, subd. 2(a)(4) 

2) 65 mph on non-interstate freeways and highways and 

Interstates w/in urban area limits. §169.14, subd. 2(a)(2) and 

(5) 

3) 55 mph on highways in all other locations. §169.14, subd. 

2(a)(3) 

4) 30 mph in an urban district or town road in a rural 

residential district.240 §169.14, subd. 2(a)(1) 

5) 25 mph on residential roadways.241 §169.14, subd. 2(a)(7) 

6) 10 mph in alleys. §169.14, subd. 2(a)(6) 

7) 10 to 30 mph in manufactured home parks.242 §327.27, 

subds. 2 and 2a 

8) 10 mph in recreational camping areas. §327.27, subd. 2 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Commissioner of Transportation may increase or decrease the 

above speed limits. Any speed in excess of these posted limits 

is prima facie evidence that the speed was not reasonable or 

prudent. §169.14, subds. 4 

 

240A “rural residential district’ means “the territory contiguous to and including any town road within a subdivision or plat 

of land that is built up with dwelling houses at intervals of less than 300 feet for a distance of one-quarter mile or more.” 

§169.14, subd 2(c) 

241If such a speed limit is adopted by the authority having jurisdiction over such roadway. §169.14, subd. 2(a)(7) and (b) 242The speed limit in a manufactured home park is 10 mph. §327.27, subd. 2 However, via local ordinance, this limit may 

be increased to not >30 mph. §327.27, subd. 2a 
SPEED 2005 130

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

 5 Note: Minnesota law does not specifically state whether 

different highway speed limits may be established for 

different types of vehicles, for various weather conditions, or 

for different times of the day. 

 II. If the commissioner establishes a speed limit of >30 mph 

for a highway within an urban district, the local government 

may reduce such limit for quarter-mile segments to 30 mph. 

§169.14, subds. 5b 

III. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, local 

governments may establish speed limits in school zones.243 

The speed limit in such zone cannot be <15 mph nor >20 mph 

below the established speed limit where such speed limit is 

normally ≥40 mph. §169.14, subd. 5a 

IV. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, a local 

government may establish a speed limit different than above 

for any alley. §169.14, subd. 5c 

V. The State Commissioner of Transportation on trunk 

highways and local governments on streets and roads under 

their jurisdiction may establish temporary speed limits in work 

zones. §169.14, subd. 5d(a) 

 The minimum speed limit in these zones is 20 mph. However, 

the speed in such zone shall neither be <15 mph below the 

normal speed limit nor >40 mph. Exception: On divided 

highways, the speed limit in such zones cannot be >55 mph. 

§169.14, subd. 5d(b) and (c) 

VI. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, local 

governments may establish speed limits within school zones. 

These limits shall be in effect when children are present at, 

going to or leaving schools during opening or closing hours or 

during school recess periods. Such speed limits shall neither 

be <15 mph nor >20 mph below the established speed limits. 

§169.14, subd. 5a (a) 

VII. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the 

governmental authority over a park may establish speed limits 

therein.244 §169.14, subd. 5e. The speed limit cannot be <20 

mph. In addition, existing speed limits cannot be reduced by 

>15 mph. §169.14, subd. 5e 

VIII. Based on investigations, the State Commissioner of 

Transportation may establish a safe maximum speed 

for bridges or elevated structures. §169.16 

IX. The Regents of the University of Minnesota have the 

authority to adopt traffic rules and regulations for roads, 

streets and highways situated on property owned, 

leased or occupied by the university. This would include the 

establishment of speed limits. §169.965, subd. 1 

 

 243If the school speed zone is on a trunk highway, the local government must obtain the consent of State Commissioner of 

Transportation before such zone is established. §169.14, subd. 5a 

244If the park is on a trunk highway, the local government must obtain the consent of State Commissioner of Transportation 

before such zone is established. §169.14, subd. 5e 
131 SPEED 2005 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. A person shall not operate a motor vehicle at such a slow 

speed as to impede or block the normal and reasonable 

movement of traffic. §169.15 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §169.18, subd. 10 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Commissioner of Transportation may establish minimum 

speed limits on any part of a trunk highway. §169.14, subd. 8 

Other: I. A person is prohibited from operating a vehicle which is 

pulling another with chains and tow bars >35 mph. §168.055 

II. A person shall not tow a farm trailer having gross vehicle 

weight >6,000 lbs. >30 mph. §169.145(2) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: I. Except as noted, speed law violations are petty 

misdemeanors. §169.89, subd. 1(1) 

II. A third or subsequent speed law Violation (w/in 12 

months) is a misdemeanor. §169.89, subd. 1(2) 

Other: I. It is a misdemeanor for a person to operate a vehicle which 

is pulling another with chains and tow bars >35 mph. 

§168.056 

II. It is a misdemeanor to violate the established speed limits 

in manufactured home parks or recreational camping areas. 

§§144.99, subds. 1 and 11 and 327.27, subds. 2 and 2a 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, Etc.): Petty Misdemeanor Offense — none. §169.89, subd. 2 

Misdemeanor Offense — not more than 90 days. §609.03(3) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None.

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Petty Misdemeanor Offense — not more than $300. §169.89, 

subd. 2 

 Misdemeanor Offense — not more than $1,000. 

§609.03(3) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): Petty Misdemeanor Offense — none.

245

 

245For a misdemeanor offense, there is a mandatory fine based either on 30 percent of the maximum statutory fine or on 30 

percent the maximum fine for this offense in the uniform fine schedule where the maximum fine in this schedule is lower 

than the statutory maximum. This schedule is established by the conference of chief judges by January 1 of each year. 

This schedule is not reported in this publication. §609.101, subd. 4(2) Note: The law does not appear to provide for a 

mandatory minimum fine for petty misdemeanor offenses. 
SPEED 2005 132

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Misdemeanor Offense — not more than $300. The mandatory 

fine may be reduced to $50 based on undue hardship. 

§609.101, subds. 4 and 5(b) 

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: In addition to or in lieu of other sanctions, the court may 

require a person to attend a driver improvement clinic. 

§169.89, subd. 5 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension.246 §§171.16, subds. 1 and 2 and 171.18, subd. 

1(2) and (4) Third or subsequent offense (within 12 months) 

— Revocation247 §171.17, subd. 1(6) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Suspension. The law providing for court-recommended 

suspensions does not state either minimum or maximum 

suspension periods. §171.16, subds. 1 and 2. However, 

statutory provisions providing for such action via independent 

licensing agency action provide that a person's license is not to 

be suspended for more than 1 year. §171.18, subd. 3(d) 

Revocation. Note: The law does not provide for a maximum 

revocation period. 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None. Note: In circumstances where an offender's license 

has been suspended or revoked, he/she may obtain limited 

driving privileges for employment, educational or medical 

needs and for other purposes connected with his/her family's 

well being. §171.30 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: I. Construction Zone: A person who violates the "work zone 

speed limit" is assessed an additional surcharge which is equal 

to the fine but not <$25. 

 §169.14, subd. 5d(e) 

 II. School Zone: A person who violates the "school zone 

speed limit" is assessed an additional surcharge which is 

equal to the fine but not <$25. §169.14, subd. 5a (d) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

 

 Reckless or Careless Driving248: Misdemeanor. §169.13, subds. 1 and 2 

 

246I. The court, at its discretion, may recommend that the licensing agency suspend an offender's license. Upon such 

recommendation, the licensing agency suspends the person's license without a hearing. §171.16, subd. 2. II. The licensing 

agency on its own initiative can suspend an offender's license if (1) the violation contributed to an accident that resulted in

death, personal injury or property damage or (2) the offender is a habitual violator of the traffic laws. §171.18, subd. 1(2) 

and (4) 

 247The law provides for license revocation for the commission of 3 or more violations of Chapter 169 (e.g., speeding, 

reckless driving or careless driving violations) within a 12 month period. §171.17, subd. 1(6) 

 248Reckless Driving: "Reckless driving" is defined as operating a motor vehicle "as to indicate either a wilful or a 

wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property." §169.12, sub. 1. Careless Driving: "Careless driving" is defined as 
133 SPEED 2005 

See Driving with Due Care under the Basic Speed Rule. 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 90 days. §609.03(3) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None.

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. §609.03(3) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: $300. The mandatory fine may be reduced to $50 based on 

undue hardship. §609.101, subds. 4 and 5(b) 

 Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension. §§171.16, subds. 1 and 2 and 171.18, subd. 1(2) 

and (4); third or subsequent offense (within 12 months) — 

Revocation §171.17, subd. 1(6) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension. The law providing for court-recommended 

suspensions does not state either minimum or maximum 

suspension periods. §171.16, subds. 1 and 2. However, 

statutory provisions providing for such action via independent 

licensing agency action provide that a person's license is not to 

be suspended for more than 1 year. §171.18, subd. 3(d) 

Revocation. Note: The law does not provide for a maximum 

revocation period. 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. Note: In circumstances where an offender's license 

has been revoked, he/she may obtain limited driving privileges 

for employment, educational or medical needs and for other 

purposes connected with his/her family's well being. §171.30, 

subd. 1 

Other: In addition to or in lieu of other sanctions, the court may 

require a person to attend a driver improvement clinic. 

§169.89, subd. 5 

 

operating a motor vehicle "carelessly or heedlessly in disregard of the rights of others, or in a manner that endangers or is 

likely to endanger any property or any person, including the driver or passengers of the vehicle." §169.13, subd. 2. Both 

offenses are misdemeanors. §169.13, subds. 1 and 2. 
SPEED 2005 134

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators249: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if, while 

driving such a vehicle, he/she (1) commits 2 "serious traffic 

violations"250 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 such 

violations within a 3-year period. §171.165, subd. 4 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §171.165, 

subd. 4 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §171.165, 

subd. 4 

 

249A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,000 lbs., is a bus or is transporting hazardous materials which requires that the vehicle be placarded 

in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §171.01, subds. 22 and 35 250A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless or careless driving. 

§171.165, subd. 4 
135 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: MISSISSIPPI

General Reference: Mississippi Code Annotated 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall operate a vehicle on the 

highways of the state at a speed greater than 65 miles per 

hour. §63-3-501 

Statutory Speed Limit: 70 mph on interstate highways or on controlled-access 

highways with four or more lanes. §63-3-501 

65 mph on all other highways. §63-3-501 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Highway Commission may decrease the above speed limits. 

§63-3-503 Note: Except as noted under Other below, 

Mississippi law does not specifically state whether different 

highway speed limits may be established for different types of 

vehicles, for various weather conditions, or for different times 

of the day. 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, local 

governments may decrease the maximum speed limits on 

streets or highways under their jurisdictions to a safe and 

reasonable speed. However, no posted speed limit shall be 

<15 mph. §63-3-511 

III. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, local 

governments may adopt speed limits on limited portions of 

highways that are near schools or churches. The local 

government may provide that these special limits shall only be 

in effect during certain days or times. §63-3-515 

Minimum Speed Limit: A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic shall 

drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §63-3-603(d) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: 30 mph on Federal designated highway when no hazard exists. 

§63-3-509(1) 

40 mph on Interstate highways and on four-lane U.S. 

designated highways which have a posted maximum speed 

limit of 70 mph. §63-3-509(2) 

 Note: Via signs, slower moving traffic may be directed to use 

designated lanes. §63-3-603(c) 

Other: I. A school bus shall not be operated at a speed >45 

mph while transporting children to and from school on regular 

routes. However, such bus may be operated at not >50 mph 

on authorized school trips. §37-41-47 
SPEED 2005 136

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) II. During inclement weather or when visibility is bad, a truck 

or truck-trailer cannot be operated >45 mph. §63-3-505 

 III. The State Highway Commission may establish safe 

maximum speed limits for bridges or elevated structures. §63-

3-513 

IV. Speed limits may be established for a “highway work 

zone.” §63-3-516(1) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are misdemeanors. §§37-41-47 and 

63-9-11(1) Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, Etc.): First offense — not more than 10 days; second offense within 

1 year — not more than 20 days. Subsequent offense within 1 

year — not more than 6 months. §63-9-11(2) 

Special Note: If the offender only exceeded the posted speed 

limit (§63-3-503) but did not exceed the maximum speed limit 

(§63-3-501), the incarceration term is only half of that noted 

above. §63-3-503 

Operating a School Bus in Excess of either 45 or 50 mph — 

none. §37-41-47 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None.

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): First offense — not more than $100; second offense within 1 

year — not more than $200. Subsequent offense within 1 year 

— not more than $500. §63-9-11(2) 

Special Note: If the offender only exceeded the posted speed 

limit (§63-3-503) but did not exceed the maximum speed limit 

(§63-3-501), the fine is only half of the amount noted above. 

§63-3-503 

Operating a School Bus in Excess of either 45 or 50 mph — 

$25 to $100. §37-41-47 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None.

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: First offenders who meet eligibility requirements and 

participate in at least 4 hours of a traffic violators course will 

not have the violation recorded on his/her driving record. 

§63-9-11(3) 

 Other: Highway Work Zone: A person is subject to a fine of not 

more than $250 for exceeding the posted speed limit in a 

highway work zone. §63-3-516(2) 
137 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension251 §63-1-53(2)(d) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Note: The law does not specify either a minimum or 

maximum suspension period. 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: I. For speed law violations in Title 63, there is, in addition to 

any fine, a mandatory State assessment of $30. §99-19-73(1) 

 II. For other misdemeanor offenses, there is a mandatory

State assessment of $47. §99-19-73(5) and (7) 

III. Bus Drivers and Operators of Vehicles for Hire: A 

person may have his/her privilege to operate a bus or a vehicle 

for hire suspended or revoked if he/she recklessly disregards 

the speed regulations prescribed by law. §§21-27-137(c) and 

21-27-155(c) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Reckless Driving: Misdemeanor. §§63-3-1201 and 63-9-11(1) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — none; subsequent offense — not more than 

10 days. §63-3-1201 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $5 to $100; subsequent offense — not more 

than $500. §63-3-1201 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension252 §63-1-53(2)(c) 3 or more offenses within 12 

months-Revocation §63-1-51(1)(e) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension — note: The law does not specify either a 

minimum or maximum suspension period. Revocation — 1 

year. §63-1-51(1) 

 

251The licensing agency has the discretionary authority to suspend a person's license if he/she has "been convicted with such 

frequency of serious offenses against traffic regulations governing the movement of traffic as to indicate disrespect for 

traffic laws and a disregard for the safety of other persons on the highways." §63-1-53(2)(d) 

252The licensing agency has the discretionary authority to suspend a person's license if he/she is "an habitually or negligent" 

driver. §63-1-53(2)(c) 
SPEED 2005 138

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension — none. Revocation — 1 year. §63-1-51(1) The 

revocation action appears to be mandatory. 

Other: In addition to any fine, there is a mandatory State assessment 

of $30. §99-19-73(1) 

Careless Driving253: Misdemeanor. §§63-3-1213 and 63-9-11(1) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Careless Driving: (continued) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

Fine ($ Range): $5 to $50. §§63-3-1213 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: 

 

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension. §63-1-53(2)(c) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Note: The law does not specify either a minimum or 

maximum suspension period. 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None

Other: In addition to any fine, there is a mandatory State assessment 

of $30. §99-19-73(1) 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators266: 

Grounds for Suspension of CDL: A person's CDL is suspended if while driving a CMV he/she 

either (1) commits 2 "serious traffic violations"267 within a 3-

year period or (2) commits 3 such violations within a 3-year 

period. §63-1-83(4) 

Period of CDL Suspension: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §63-1-83(4) 

 

253"Careless driving" is defined as operating "any vehicle in a careless or imprudent manner, without due regard for the 

width, grade, curves, corner, traffic and use of the streets and highways and all other attendant circumstances." It is 

considered a lesser offense than reckless driving. §63-3-1213 

254A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §63-1-75(f) 255A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §63-1-75(t)(i) 

and (ii) 
139 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: MISSOURI

General Reference: Vernon's Annotated Missouri Statutes 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: A person shall operate a motor vehicle in a 

careful and prudent manner and at a rate of speed so as not to 

endanger the property of another or the life or limb of any 

person and shall exercise the highest degree of care. 

§304.012.1 

Statutory Speed Limit: 70 mph on rural interstates256 and freeways.257 §304.010.2(1) 

See Other below. 65 mph on rural expressways.258 §304.010.2(2) 

60 mph on urban interstate highways,259 expressways and 

freeways. §304.010.2(3) 

60 mph on other roads, except State two-lane "lettered" roads, 

not located in an urban area. §304.010.2(4) 

55 mph on State two-lane "lettered" roads. §304.010.2(5) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. The State may increase the maximum speed limit to 60 mph 

on State two-lane "lettered" roads. §304.010.2(5). See the 

Note below. 

II. Local governments with State approval may establish speed 

limits on the streets or roads within their jurisdiction. 

§304.010.4 and .5 

III. Under separate statutory authority, the State and local 

governments may fix a speed limit by posting appropriate 

signs on roads under their jurisdictions. A violation of this 

posted speed limit is prima facie evidence of careless and 

imprudent driving. §304.351.7 

IV. Under separate authority, cities, towns and villages have 

the authority to enact ordinances which regulate traffic. This 

includes establishing speed limits. §§77.520, 79.410 and 

300.205 

V. The State may increase or decrease the maximum speed 

limits on any State road (e.g., interstate highways, 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

 

256A "rural interstate" is defined as a Federal interstate highway not located in an urban area. §304.010.1(3). An "urban 

area" is defined as an area with a population density of ≥1,000 persons per square mile. §304.010.1(4) 257A "freeway" is defined as a limited access divided highway with at least 4 lanes and which is not part of the Federal 

interstate system; such highway must be at least 10 miles in length with no access from other streets or roads for 10 miles 

intervals. §304.010.1(2) 

258An "expressway" is defined as a divided highway with four or more lanes which is not part of the Federal interstate 

system. Such highway must be at least 10 miles long and is fully accessible from other streets or roads. §304.010.1(1). A 

"rural expressway" is one located in non-urban areas. An "urban area" is defined as an area with a population density of 

≥1,000 persons per square mile. §304.010.1(4) 

259An interstate highway located in an urban area. An "urban area" is defined as an area with a population density of 

≥1,000 persons per square mile. §304.010.1(4) 
SPEED 2005 140

freeways or expressways) not under a local jurisdiction. 

However, no speed limit shall be established >70 mph. 

§304.010.3 

Note: Except as noted under Other below, Missouri law does 

not specifically state whether different highway speed limits 

may be established for different types of vehicles, for various 

weather conditions, or for different times of the day. 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall operate a motor vehicle at such a slow 

speed as to impede or block the normal and reasonable 

movement of traffic. §304.011.1 

II. For highways that have been divided into three or more 

lanes, a person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane for traffic or as close as 

practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway. 

§304.015.5(3) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: 40 mph on Federal interstate highways.260 §304.011.2 

Other: Except as otherwise provide by law, a truck weighing >24,000 

lbs. shall not be driven >60 mph. §304.010.2 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: I. Driving ≤5 mph over the speed limit is an infraction. 

§304.009.1 

II. Driving at less than the normal speed of traffic and not 

driving in the right lane is an infraction.261 §304.015.7 

III. Driving ≥20 mph over the speed limit is a Class B 

Misdemeanor. §304.010.10 

IV. A violation of the basic speed rule is a Class B 

Misdemeanor. §304.012.2 

V. A violation of the basic speed rule that results in an 

accident is a Class A misdemeanor. §304.012.2 

VI. Driving so as to impede traffic is an unclassified traffic 

regulations misdemeanor. §§304.11.1 and 304.570 

VII. A violation of the posted speed limit established under 

§304.351.7 (prima facie evidence of careless and imprudent 

driving) is a Class C misdemeanor. §304.351.8 

VIII. All other speed law violations, including driving <40 

mph on a Federal interstate, are Class C misdemeanors. 

§§304.010.10 and 304.011.2 

Other: N/A 

 

260There is an exception for certain agricultural-type vehicles being operated on such highways via special permits for short 

distances. §304.011.2(2) 

261If the violation causes an immediate threat of an accident, it is a Class C misdemeanor. If such violation results in an 

accident, it is a Class A misdemeanor. §304.015.7 
141 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): I. Infraction — none 

II. Class A misdemeanor — not more than 1 year. 

§558.011.1(5) 

III. Class B misdemeanor — not more than 6 months. 

§558.011.1(6) 

IV. Class C misdemeanor — not more than 15 days. 

§558.011.1(7) 

V. Unclassified Traffic Regulation Misdemeanor — not more 

than 1 year. §304.570 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): I. Infraction — not more than $200. §560.016.1(4) 

II. Class A misdemeanor — not more than $1,000. 

§560.016.1(1) 

III. Class B misdemeanor — not more than $500. 

§560.016.1(2)

IV. Class C misdemeanor — not more than $300. 

§560.016.1(3) 

V. Unclassified Traffic Regulation Misdemeanor — $5 to 

$500. §304.570 

Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: N/A 

 Other: Additional Fine: If a person violates §302.010 of the speed 

laws while in a construction (or work) zone, he/she is assessed 

an additional fine of $35. §304.580.2 If the violation occurs 

when workers are present and a warning is posted, the 

additional fine is $250. §304.580.3 and.4 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension or Revocation under the point system.262 

§§302.302 and 302.304 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): 30 days to 1 year.263 §302.304 

 

262Point System: I. An offender's license is subject to suspension if he/she accumulates 8 points in 18 months. §302.304.3 

If this is the offender's first suspension, the suspension period is 30 days. If this is the offender's second suspension, the 

suspension period is 60 days. If this is the offender's third or subsequent suspension, the suspension period is 90 days. 

§302.304.4 II. An offender's license is subject to revocation if he/she accumulates 12 points within 12 months, 18 points 

within 24 months, or 24 points within 36 months. The period of revocation is 1 year. §§302.304.7 and 302.190 III. The 

following points are assigned to speeding and speed-related violations: speeding in violation of State law — 3 points; 

speeding in violation of local government law-2 points. §302.302.1(2) For careless and imprudent driving, 4 points are 

assessed. §302.302.1(4) An additional 2 points are assessed if a violation resulted in either a personal injury or property 

damage. §302.302.3 However, no points are assessed for driving ≤5 mph over the speed limit. §304.009.1 263Under most circumstances, a license cannot be suspended or revoked for more than 1 year. §302.190. However, either a 

suspension or a revocation can be “continued in effect for two years” if a person does not maintain proof of financial 

responsibility. §302.304.4 and .7 
SPEED 2005 142

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None. Note: An offender is eligible for hardship driving 

privileges.264 §302.309.3(1) 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: N/A 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Note: Local governments may prevent racing on the 

highways.265

Reckless Driving: See the Basic Speed Rule. A violation of this rule is a Class B 

misdemeanor. If the violation results in an accident, it is a 

Class A misdemeanor. §304.012.1 and .2 

Sanction: See Sanctions Following an Adjudication for a speed law 

Violation. 

Criminal: 

 Imprisonment (Term): 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

 Fine ($ Range): 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: 

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 

 Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 

 

264Hardship driving privileges may be granted for employment, occupational, business and educational purposes, for 

medical treatment including drug and alcohol treatment programs, and for any other circumstances found to create an undue 

hardship. §302.309.3(2) 

265I. A Third Class City (a city or town with population ≥3,000) may enact an ordinance prohibiting highway racing. 

§§72.030, 77.520 and 77.590 The maximum sanctions that can be established for violating this prohibition are an 

imprisonment term of 3 months and/or a fine of $500. §77.590 II. A Fourth Class City (generally a city or town with 

population ≥500 but <3,000) may enact an ordinance prohibiting highway racing. §§72.040.1 and 79.410 The maximum 

sanctions that can be established for violating this prohibition are an imprisonment term of 90 days and/or a fine of $500. 

§79.470 
143 SPEED 2005 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators266: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

traffic violations"267 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 

such violations within a 3-year period. §302.755.5 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days. §302.755.5 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §302.755.5 

 

266A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport more than 15 persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §302.700.2(6) 267A "serious traffic violation" includes careless, reckless, imprudent driving and excessive speeding. §302.700.2(24) 
SPEED 2005 144

JURISDICTION: MONTANA

General Reference: Montana Code Annotated and Administrative Rules of 

Montana 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: Subject to the (maximum) statutory speed limits below, a 

person shall operate a vehicle in a careful and prudent manner 

and at a reduced rate of speed no greater than is reasonable 

and prudent under the conditions existing at the point of 

operation, taking into account the amount and character of 

traffic, visibility, weather and roadway conditions.268 §61-8-

303(4) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 75 mph269 at all times on Federal-Aid interstate highways 

outside an urbanized area with population ≥50,000. §61-8-

303(1)(a) 

65 mph2

at all times on Federal-Aid interstate highways within

an urbanized area with a population ≥50,000. §61-8-303(1)(a) 

70 mph during the daytime270 and 65 mph during the 

nighttime on any other public highway. §61-8-303(1)(b) 

65 mph at all times on U.S. Highway 93 between the 

Canadian and Idaho boarders unless the highway is upgraded 

to a continuous four-lane highway. §61-8-303(2) 

25 mph in an urban district. §61-8-303(5) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. The State Department of Transportation, based on 

engineering and traffic investigations which indicate that a 

greater or less speed limit than noted above is reasonable or 

safe, may establish different speed limits on a segment of a 

highway less than 50 miles in length. §61-8-309(1) The law 

does not specifically state whether different highway speed 

limits may be established for different types of vehicles, for 

various weather conditions, or for different times of the day. 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

may establish safe maximum speed limits for bridges or other 

elevated structures. §61-8-313(2) and (3) 

III. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, a local 

government may increase or decrease the maximum speed 

limits on highways under its jurisdiction.271 §61-8-310(1) 

 

268IMPORTANT: The State Supreme Court has held that certain provisions of the State’s previous basic speed rule were 

void for vagueness under the due process clause of the State’s constitution. State v. Stanko, 974 P.2d 1132 (Mont. 1998) 269When traveling on a two lane road, a person may exceed this speed limit by 10 mph in order to overtake and pass another 

vehicle. §61-8-303(3) 

270"Daytime" means one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. "Nighttime" means any other hour except 

daytime. §61-8-303(6) 

271I. However, the following limitations apply. (1) The posted speed limit in an urban district cannot be >65 mph during 

the nighttime. §61-8-310(1)(b). (2) The posted speed limit outside an urban district cannot be <35 mph. §61-8-310(1)(c). 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, a local government may establish speed zones near schools or senior 

citizen centers and for the crosswalks that are close to them. The speed limit in such places cannot be <15 mph. §61-8-

310(1)(d). Note: The Montana Legislature has adopted a resolution encouraging city and county governments to lower the 

speed limit in school zones to 15 mph. House Joint Resolution 25 (adopted in 1999) 
145 SPEED 2005 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

IV. A local government may establish speed limits on 

county roads (as defined under §60-1-103(7)) without 

an engineering and traffic investigation. §61-8-

310(1)(c) and (2) 

 V. Under separate authority, a local government may 

determine the proper speed limits for all arterial streets under 

its jurisdiction. Such limits may be less or greater than the 

maximum speed limit provided for an urban district (§61-8-

303). §§7-14-2113 and 61-8-310(3) 

 VI. The State Department of Transportation or a local 

government must establish appropriate speed limits in 

“construction zones”272 and “work zones.”273 Note: This 

authority may also extend to utility companies and private 

contractors. §61-8-314(2), (3) and (4) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. A motor vehicle may not be driven at a speed slow enough 

to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of 

traffic. §61-8-311(1) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §61-8-321(2) 

 Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State or a 

local government may establish a minimum posted speed limit 

for all or part of a highway. §61-8-311(3). Note: Via signs, 

slower moving traffic may be directed to use designated lanes. 

§61-8-328(3) 

 Other: I. For trucks with >1 ton manufacturer’s rated capacity, except 

for the maximum statutory limits per §61-8-303 and speed 

limits established per §§61-8-309 and 61-8-310, the maximum 

speed limits are as follows: 

(a) 65 mph on completed sections of interstate highways; and, 

(b) 60 mph during the daytime and 55 mph during the 

nighttime on four-lane divided highways and completed 

sections of primary and secondary highways. §61-8-312(1)(a) 

and (b) 

II. Except for the maximum statutory limits per §61-8-303 and 

speed limits established per §§61-8-309 and 61-8-310, special 

permit vehicles cannot be driven >55 mph. §61-8-312(2) 

 III. A vehicle with sold rubber or cushion tires cannot be 

driven >10 mph. §61-8-313(1) 

 

272A “construction zone” is defined as “an area on a public highway or on the adjacent right-of-way where construction, 

repair, maintenance, or survey work is being performed by the department of transportation, a local authority, a utility 

company, or a private contractor under contract with the department of transportation or a local authority. A construction 

zone may include a work zone.” §61-8-314(1)(a) 

273A “work zone” is defined as “the area where the construction, repair, maintenance, or survey work is actually taking 

place.” §61-8-314(1)(c) 
SPEED 2005 146

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are misdemeanors. §§61-8-314(2) 

and (5) and 61-8-711(1) 

 

 Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, Etc.): None. §§61-8-711(2) and 61-8-725(1) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): I. Violation of Statutory Speed Limits Under §61-8-303: 1 

to 10 mph over the speed limit — $20; 11 to 20 mph over the 

speed limit — $40; 21 to 30 mph over the speed limit — $70; 

and 31 or more mph over the speed limit — $100. §61-8-

725(1) 

II. Other Speed Law Violations: first offense — $10 to 

$100; second offense (within 1 year) — $25 to $200; 

subsequent offense (within 1 year) — $50 to $500. §61-8-

711(2) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: Driver Improvement Program. §61-2-302 and Administrative 

Rules of Montana 23.3.203 

 Other: Double Fines: The fines are double the usual amount for 

exceeding the posted speed limit in a “work zone.” §61-8-

314(5)(a) 

 Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via point system274-Frequent violator of the traffic 

laws. 

 

 

274Driver Rehabilitation Point System: I. If an offender accumulates 6 points within 18 months, he/she may be required 

to attend a counseling session or be subject to license re-examination. II. If an offender accumulates 15 or more points 

within 36 months, he/she is subject to a 6 month license suspension and must be referred to a Driver Rehabilitation 

Program. III. The following points are assigned to speeding and speed-related violations: engaging in race or speed contest 

(i.e., unauthorized speed contest) — 5 points; driving recklessly — 5 points; speeding in a restricted speed zone — 3 

points; speeding 25 mph in an urban district — 3 points; speeding 35 mph in a construction zone — 3 points; speeding >65 

mph at night on an interstate* — 3 points; speeding >55 mph at night on other highways* — 3 points; driving certain 

trucks >55 mph at night*, >60 mph at other times* or >65 mph on interstate highways* — 3 points; violating posted 

(restricted) speed limits established by either the State or local governments including a violation of the posted speed limit 

on bridges or elevated structures — 3 points; towing a house trailer >50 mph* — 3 points; obstructing traffic by driving 

under the minimum reasonable speed (after being warned) — 2 points; not driving in the right lane when operating a slow 

moving vehicle-2 points; violating the basic speed rule-2 points; and, careless driving-2 points. §61-5-206(1)(b), 

Administrative Rules of Montana 23.3.202(1), (2) and (3) and 23.3.203(1) Important. A violation of the statutory speed 

limits under §61-8-303 is not recorded on a person’s driving record unless he/she exceeds the speed by more than 10 mph 

during the daytime or 5 mph during the nighttime. §61-8-725(2) 

*Due to amendments made to §§61-8-303 and 61-8-312 by respectively §§2 and 6 of Chapter 43 (Session Laws of 1999), 

this is no longer a specific violation of the law. 
147 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

 Revocation. Habitual Traffic Offender275 §61-11-201 et seq. 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Suspension — 6 months. Administrative Rules of Montana 

23.3.203(2) Note: The law limits a suspension to a maximum 

period of 1 year. §61-5-208(1). 

Revocation (Habitual Offender) — 3 years. §§61-11-211 and 

61-11-212 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Suspension — 6 months. Administrative Rules of Montana 

23.3.203(2) Note: The law limits a suspension to a maximum 

period of 1 year. §61-5-208(1). Revocation (Habitual 

Offender) — 3 years. §§61-11-211 and 61-11-212 

Mandatory Minimum Term of Withdrawal: Suspension — none. Licensing action is discretionary. 

Revocation (Habitual Offender) — 1 year 

 Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: N/A 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Unauthorized Speed Contest (Drag Racing): Misdemeanor. §§61-8-308, 61-8-711(1) and 61-8-717 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 6 months. §61-8-717 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): $50 to $500. §61-8-717 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension or Revocation — See Driver Rehabilitation and 

Habitual Offender point systems respectively.276 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: N/A 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: N/A 

 

275Habitual Offender Point System: If a person accumulates 30 points within a 3-ear period, he/she is subject to a 3-year 

license revocation. The following points are assigned to speeding and speed-related offenses: reckless driving — 5 points; 

illegal drag race or engaging in a speed contest (i.e., unauthorized speed contest) — 5 points; speeding — 3 points. §61-11-

203(2)(h), (i), (l). Important: A violation of the statutory speed limits under §61-8-303 is not recorded on a person’s 

driving record unless he/she exceeds the speed by more than 10 mph during the daytime or 5 mph during the nighttime. 

§61-8-725(2). II. If a person accumulates 18 or more points for the above-noted offenses within 2 years, he/she is declared 

a Driver in Need of Rehabilitation and Improvement. . §61-11-203(2). Such a person must complete a certified driver 

rehabilitation and improvement course. If he/she fails to complete this course, his/her license may be suspended for 6 

months or until the course is completed, whichever comes first. §§61-5-206(j) and 61-11-204(3) and (4). 276An offender may be issued restricted driving privileges after 1 year of the revocation period provided he/she participates 

in a driver rehabilitation program. §61-2-302(2)(a)(ii) 
SPEED 2005 148

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: (continued) 

 Other: Double Fines: The fine appears to be double the usual 

amount if the offense occurred in a “work zone.” §61-8-

314(2) and (5)(a) 

Reckless Driving:

 277 Misdemeanor. §§61-8-301 and 61-8-711(1) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — not more than 90 days; subsequent offense 

— 10 days to 6 months. §61-8-715(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

 Fine ($ Range): First offense — $25 to $300; subsequent offense — $50 to 

$500. §61-8-715(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

 Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension or Revocation — See Driver Rehabilitation and 

Habitual Offender point systems respectively under Footnotes 

7 and 8. Revocation — 3 reckless driving convictions within 

12 months. §61-5-205(1)(f) 

Length of Term of License 

Withdrawal Action: Suspension or Revocation — not more than 1 year. §61-5-

208 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None

Other: Double Fines: The fine appears to be double the usual 

amount if the offense occurred in a “work zone.” §61-8-

314(2) and (5)(a) 

Reckless Endangerment of Highway Workers:

 278 Misdemeanor §§61-8-315 and 61-8-711(1) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — not more than 90 days; subsequent offense 

— 10 days to 6 months. §61-8-715(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

 

277If the offender commits a reckless driving offense while fleeing law enforcement officers, the following sanctions apply: 

for a first offense, there is imprisonment from 10 days to 6 months and/or a fine from $300 to $500; and, for a subsequent 

offense, there is imprisonment from 30 days to 1 year and/or a fine of from $500 to $1,000. §61-8-715(2). If the offender 

commits a reckless driving offense that results in a death or a serious bodily injury, the following sanctions apply: 

imprisonment for not more than 1 year and/or a fine of not more than $10,000. §61-8-715(3). 278A person commits a "careless driving" offense if he/she does not operate a motor vehicle "in a careful and prudent 

manner so as not to unduly or unreasonably endanger the life, limb, property, or other rights of a person entitled to the use 

of the street or highway." §61-8-302 
149 SPEED 2005 

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $25 to $300; subsequent offense — $50 to 

$500. §61-8-715(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Note: The law is not certain but the licensing actions that 

apply for a reckless driving offense conviction may also apply 

to this offense. 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: N/A 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: N/A 

Other: Double Fine: The fine appears to be double the usual amount 

if the offense occurred in a “work zone.” §61-8-314(2) and 

(5)(a) 

Careless Driving:

 12 Misdemeanor. §§61-8-302, 61-8-711(1) and 61-8-716 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

 Imprisonment (Term): First or subsequent offense — none. §61-8-711(2). Note: A 

violation of the careless driving statute that results in death or 

serious bodily injury is subject to imprisonment not to exceed 

6 months. §61-8-716(2) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $10 to $100; second offense (within 1 year) 

— $25 to $200; subsequent offense (within 1 year) — $50 to 

$500. §61-8-711(2). Note: A violation of the careless 

driving statute that results in a death or serious bodily injury is 

subject to a fine of ≤$15,000. . §61-8-716(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension or Revocation — See Driver Rehabilitation and 

Habitual Offender point systems respectively. 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 

Other: Double Fines: The fine appears to be double the usual 

amount if the offense occurred in a “work zone.” §61-8-

314(2) and (5)(a) 

 
SPEED 2005 150

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators:

 279

Grounds for Suspension: A CDL license is suspended CMV if while driving a CMV a 

person (1) commits more than 1 "serious traffic violations": 280

within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 or more such 

violations within a 3-year period. §61-8-803(1) 

Period of Suspension: More than one (1) serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 

days; 3 or more serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 

days. §61-8-803(1) 

Period of Mandatory Suspension: More than one (1) serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 

days; 3 or more serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 

days. §61-8-803(1) 

 

 279A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to carry 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §61-1-134 280 A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §61-8-803 
151 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: NEBRASKA

This chapter summarizes Nebraska State statutes related to 

speed. 

General Reference: Revised Statutes of Nebraska 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: A person shall not operate a vehicle at a speed greater than is 

reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having 

regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing. §60-

6,185 

Statutory Speed Limit: 75 mph on State freeways282and Federal interstate 

highways.283 §60-6,186(1)(g) 

See Other below. 

65 mph on a State expressway284 §60-6,186(1)(f) 

60 mph on other State highways §60-6,186(1)(e)(ii) 

55 mph upon any dustless-surfaced highway not part of the 

State highway system §60-6,186(1)(d) 

50 mph upon a non-dustless-surfaced highway not part of the 

State highway system §60-6,186(1)(c) 

25 mph in a residential district §60-6,186(1)(a) 

20 mph in a business district §60-6,186(1)(b) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State or 

local governments may increase or decrease the above 

statutory speed limits.285 However, the State cannot increase 

the maximum statutory speed limits on rural highways and 

freeways. On county highways that are not part of the State 

highway system, a local government cannot establish a speed 

limit <35 mph outside a residential or business district. §§60-

6,186(2) and 60-6,190(1) and (3) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall operate a motor vehicle at such a slow 

speed as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of 

traffic. §60-6,193(1), (2) and (6) 

II. On a freeway, no motor vehicle can be operated <40 

mph.286 §60-6,193(2) 

III. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §60-6,131(2) 

 

282A "freeway" is defined as "an expressway with full control of access." §39-1302(17) 283Exceptions: The maximum speed limit is 60 mph on any State freeway or interstate highway in Douglas County, on 

Interstate 180 in Lancaster County and on Interstate 129 in Dakota County. §60-6,186(1)(g)(i) and (ii) 284An "expressway" is defined as "a divided arterial highway for through traffic with full or partial control of access which 

may have grade separations at intersections." §39-1302(13) 

285Historical Note: The State legislature repealed the provisions that allowed the State to provide for different speed limits 

at specified times of the day, for certain weather conditions, for various types of vehicles, and for other factors concerned 

with safe speeds. §10 of Legislative Bill 901 enacted in 1996 

286Either the State or a local government may alter this minimum speed limit on a freeway. §60-6,193(2) 
SPEED 2005 152

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: The State or a local government may establish minimum 

posted speed limits for a highway. §60-6,193(3). Note: Via 

signs, “specified traffic” (e.g. slower moving traffic) may be 

directed to use designated lanes. §60-6,193(3) 

Other: I. In maintenance, repair or construction zones, the speed limit 

is 35 mph in rural areas and 25 mph in urban ones. However, 

the speed in such zones may be increased to a limit not greater 

than the maximum limit provided by law. §60-6,188(1) and 

(3) 

II. Based upon an investigation, either the State or a local 

government may establish safe maximum speed limits for 

bridges, causeways, viaducts or other elevated structures. 

§60-6,189(2) 

III. A vehicle towing a mobile home shall not be driven >50 

mph. §60-6,187(1) 

IV. A school bus carrying children is subject to special speed 

limitations.287 §60-6,187(2) 

V. No person shall operate a “livestock forage vehicle” at a 

speed (1) >20 mph in a business district, (2) >25 mph in a 

residential district or (3) >50 mph on any other highway 

except a freeway outside a business or residential district. 

However, these speed limits may be altered via §60-6,190. 

§60-6,305(3) 

VI. A moped shall not be driven >30 mph. §60-6,313(7) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are traffic infractions (but are 

disposed of in the same manner as misdemeanors). §§60-672, 

60-682, 60-682.01 and 60-688 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, etc.) None

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Exceeding the Speed Limit: (1) 1 to 5 mph Over the Speed 

Limit — $10; (2) 6 to 10 mph Over the Speed Limit — $25; 

(3) 11 to 15 mph Over the Speed Limit 

$75; (4) 16 to 20 mph Over the Speed Limit — $125; (5) 

>21 mph Over the Speed Limit — $200; (6) These fines are 

 

287I. School buses shall not be driven >55 mph on State highways. However, this limit does not apply on freeways (except 

during the nighttime), dustless-surfaced highways or State highways designed by the State for speed limits of 75 mph. §60-

6,187(2)(a). II. School buses shall not be driven >45 mph during the daytime or >40 mph during the nighttime on nondustless surfaced highways that are not part of the State highway system. §60-6,187(2)(b) and (c) 
153 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law 

Violation: 

(continued) 

 Doubled if the offense occurred in a construction zone or a 

school crossing zone. §60-682.01 

 Other Violations: First offense — not more than $100; second offense (within1 

year) — not more than $200; subsequent offense (within 1 

year) — not more than $300. §60-689 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: The court may require a person who has been convicted of a 

moving violation to attend a driver improvement school. §60-

691 

 Other: N/A 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Revocation via a point system.288 §§60-499(4) and 60-4,183 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Revocation via a point system — 6 months. §§60-499, 60-

4,182 and 60-4,183 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: Revocation via a point system — none. A person is eligible 

for either employment or medical hardship driving privileges. 

§§60-4,129, 60-4,130 and 60-4,130.01 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Revocation via court order — 10 days to 1 year.289 Note: 

This action is discretionary. §60-496 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Class II misdemeanor. §60-6,195(1) and (3) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 6 months. §28-106(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. §28-106(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

 

288Point System: I. If an offender accumulates 12 points within 2 years, his/her license is revoked for 6 months and he/she 

must attend a driver education and training course for at least 8 hours. If the offense involved incarceration, the license 

revocation begins after the offender is released from such confinement. §60-4,183. An offender <21 years old who 

accumulates 6 points within 12 months must attend an 8 hour driver improvement course. If he/she fails to attend this 

course, his/her license is suspended until either he/she completes the course or reaches the age of 21. §60-4,130.03. II. 

Points have been assigned as follows: willful reckless driving — 6 points; reckless driving — 5 points; careless driving — 

4 points; speeding ≤5 mph over the speed limit — 1 point; speeding >5 mph but <10 mph over the speed limit-2 points; and 

speeding >10 mph over the speed limit — 3 points. However, on highways with maximum speed limits of either 60, 65 or 

75 mph, the following points have been assigned for speeding violations: for exceeding the speed limit by <10 mph — 1 

point; for exceeding the speed limit by >10 mph but <15 mph-2 points; and, for exceeding the speed limit by >15 mph — 3 

points. §60-4,182 

289The court is authorized to take such action only if the offense involved driving in such a manner as to endanger life, limb 

or property. State v. Mann, 246 N.W.2d 604 (Neb. 1976) and §60-496 
SPEED 2005 154

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Possible Revocation via a point system.7 §§60-499, 60-4,182 

and 60-4,183. Note: There is no specific point assignment for 

the offense of racing on the highways. However, the law does 

provide an assignment of 1 point for all other moving 

violations. This could include such offense. 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Revocation via a point system — 6 months. §§60-499 and 

60-4,183 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: Revocation via a point system — none. A person is eligible 

for either employment or medical hardship driving privileges. 

§§60-4,129, 60-4,130 and 60-4,130.01 

Other: I. The court may require a person who has been convicted of a 

moving violation to attend a driver improvement school. §60-

691 

II. Revocation via court order — 10 days to 1 year. Note: 

This action is discretionary. §60-496 

Willful Reckless Driving315: Class I, II or III misdemeanor. §§60-6,214, 60-6,216, 60-

6,217 and 60-6,218 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense (Class III misdemeanor) — not more than 3 

months; second offense (Class II misdemeanor) — not more 

than 6 months; subsequent offense (Class I misdemeanor) — 

not more than 1 year. §28-106(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense (Class III misdemeanor) — not more than $500; 

second offense (Class II misdemeanor) — not more than 

$1,000; subsequent offense (Class I misdemeanor) — not 

more than $1,000. §28-106(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): First or subsequent offense — revocation. §§60-6,216, 60-

6,217, 60-6,218 and60-498(7) 

 

290"Willful reckless driving" is defined as operating a motor vehicle "in such a manner as to indicate a willful disregard for 

the safety of persons or property." §60-6,214 
155 SPEED 2005 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — 30 days to 1 year §60-6,216; second offense 

— 60 days to 2 years §60-6,217; subsequent offense — 1 

year. §60-6,218 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — 30 days §60-6,216; second offense — 60 

days §60-6,217; subsequent offense — 1 year. §60-6,218. 

The minimum period of revocation is mandatory316. §60-

498(7) 

Other: I. For second offenses, the vehicle used in the offense, if 

owned by the offender, must be impounded from 2 months to 

1 year. §60-6,217 

II. The court may require a person who has been convicted of 

a moving violation to attend a driver improvement school. 

§60-691 

III. Revocation via court order where there has been danger to 

life, limb or property — 10 days to 1 year. Note: This action 

is discretionary. §60-496 

Reckless Driving: Class I, II or III misdemeanor. §§60-6,213, 60-6,215, 60-

6,217 and 60-6,218 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense (Class III misdemeanor) — not more than 3 

months; second offense (Class II misdemeanor) — not more 

than 6 months; subsequent offense (Class I misdemeanor) — 

not more than 1 year. §28-106(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense (Class III misdemeanor) — not more than $500; 

second offense (Class II misdemeanor) — not more than 

$1,000; subsequent offense (Class I misdemeanor) — not 

more than $1,000. §28-106(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): First offense — revocation via the point system §§60-499 and 

60-4,183; second or subsequent offense — revocation. §§60-

6,217 and 60-6,218 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — revocation via a point system — 6 months

§§60-499, 60-4,182 and 60-4,183; second offense — 60 days 

 to 2 years §60-6,217; subsequent offense — 1 year. §60-

6,218 

Mandatory Term of License 

 

291An employment driving permit is not available. §60-4,129 
SPEED 2005 156

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — revocation via a point system — none. A 

person is eligible for either employment or medical hardship 

driving privileges §§60-4,129, 60-4,130 and 60- 

 

 4,130.01; second offense — 60 days §60-6,217; subsequent 

offense — 1 year. §60-6,218. For second or subsequent 

offenses, the minimum period of revocation appears to be 

mandatory. 

Other: I. For second offenses, the vehicle used in the offense, if 

owned by the offender, must be impounded from 2 months to 

1 year. §60-6,217 

II. The court may require a person who has been convicted of 

a moving violation to attend a driver improvement school. 

§60-691 

 III. Revocation via court order where there has been danger to 

life, limb or property — 10 days to 1 year. Note: This action 

is discretionary. §60-496 

Careless Driving:317 Traffic infraction (civil offense) §60-672, 60-682 and 60-

6,212 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

Fine ($ Range): First offense — not more than $100; second offense (within 1 

year) — not more than $200; subsequent offense (within 1 

year) — not more than $300. §60-689 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Revocation via a point system. §§60-499 and 60-4,183 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Revocation via a point system — 6 months. §§60-499, 60-

4,182 and 60-4,183 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Revocation via a point system — none. A person is eligible 

for either employment or medical hardship driving privileges. 

§§60-4,129, 60-4,130 and 60-4,130.01 

Other: I. The court may require a person who has been convicted of a 

moving violation to attend a driver improvement school. §60-

691 

II. Revocation via court order where there has been danger to 

life, limb or property — 10 days to 1 year. Note: This action 

is discretionary. §60-496 

 

292"Careless driving" is defined as operating a motor vehicle "carelessly or without due caution so as to endanger a person 

or property." §60-6,212 
157 SPEED 2005 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators318: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she (1) commits 2 "serious traffic 

violations319" within a 

 3-year period or (2) commits 3 such violations within a 3-year 

period. §60-4,168(4) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days. §60-4,168(4) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §60-4,168(4) 

 

293A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either and is a heavy 

vehicle with varying weight capacities (e.g., Class A Combination Vehicles 26,000 lbs. with towed vehicles weighing 

>10,000 lbs., Class B Heavy Single Vehicles weighing >26,001 lbs. and Class C Small Single Vehicles weighing <26,001 

lbs.), is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which requires that the vehicle be 

placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §60-4,138(2) 294A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §60-4,168(7)(a) 

and (b) 
SPEED 2005 158

JURISDICTION: NEVADA

General Reference: Nevada Revised Statutes and Nevada Administrative Code 

(NAC) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

 Basic Speed Rule: A person shall not drive a vehicle at a rate 

of speed greater than is reasonable or proper, having due 

regard for the traffic, surface and width of the highway, the 

weather and other highway conditions, or at such a speed as to 

endanger life, limb or property of any person. §484.361(1) 

and (2) 

Statutory Speed Limit: I. A person shall not operate any vehicle at a speed >75 mph. 

§484.361(4) 

 II. A person shall not operate a motor vehicle >15 mph295 in a 

school zone or >25 mph in school crossing zone.296 

§484.366(1) and (2) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. The State Department of Transportation may adopt speed 

limits of not >75 mph on highways constructed and 

maintained by it. Such authority includes the establishment of 

lower speed limits (1) "where necessary to protect public 

health and safety" or (2) "for trucks, overweight and oversized 

vehicles, or trailers drawn by motor vehicles and buses." 

§§484.367(2) and 484.368 

II. After appropriate studies, the State may establish special 

speed zones on a highway where a hazard exists. §484.369(1) 

III. After an appropriate investigation, the State may establish 

the maximum safe speed limits for bridges and elevated 

structures. § 484.375(3) 

IV. Except for State constructed and maintained highways, 

local governments and unincorporated towns may establish 

speed limits within their jurisdictions. §§269.185(1)(b) and 

484.367(1) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. A person shall not operate a motor vehicle at such a slow 

speed as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of 

traffic. §484.371(1) 

II. If a person is driving at a speed so slow as to impede 

the forward movement of traffic, he/she shall, on one-lane 

highways, drive to the extreme right hand side of 

the highway, on highways with two or more lanes, 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: drive in the extreme right hand lane and, on controlled access 

highways, use an alternate route if possible. 

 

295This 15 mph speed limit is not to be imposed if it would result in unsafe conditions because of higher speed limits on 

adjoining streets. §484.366(3) 

296The speed limits in these zones do not apply (1) on a day when the school is in not in session, (2) one-half hour after 

school is no longer in operation to one-half hour before school operations, or (3) when a sign indicates that such limits are 

not in effect. §484.366(1) and (2). Note: Local governments are required to post the times these speed limits are in effect. 

§§268.425 and 269.185(2) 
159 SPEED 2005 

 §484.373 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State or a 

local government may establish a minimum speed for a 

highway or a part thereof. §484.371(2) 

Other: I. A person shall not drive a school bus at speed >55 mph 

while transporting students to and from school or while on a 

school activity. §484.365 

II. A person shall not drive a vehicle equipped with solid 

rubber tires or cushion tires >10 mph. §484.375(1) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are misdemeanors. §§193.170 and 

484.999(1) 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): Not more than 6 months.297 §193.150(1) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. §193.150(1) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

 Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: I. A person who has been convicted of a second offense may 

be ordered by the court to attend a driver training school. 

§484.999(2) 

II. The licensing agency can also require a person who has had 

his/her license suspended via the point system 

to attend a driver's training school. §483.477 

Construction Zone: A person who exceeds the posted speed 

limit in a construction zone is subject to an additional

sanction that is equal to the original 

 sanction imposed for exceeding such limit. Imprisonment 

sanctions for the original and additional sanctions must run 

consecutively. However, the combined sanctions cannot 

exceed 6 months of imprisonment, $1,000 or 120 hours of 

community service. §484.3667(1) and (2) 

 

297A person who exceeds the following posted speed limits during the hours of daylight is only subject to a fine of $25: (1) 

when the posted speed limit is 60 mph and the offender is driving ≤70 mph; (2) when the posted speed limit is 65 mph and 

the offender is driving ≤75 mph; or (3) when the posted speed limit is 70 mph and the offender is driving ≤75 mph. A 

violation is not considered a moving violation and is not recorded on a person's driving record. §484.3685(1) and (2). 

Exception: This fine does “not apply to a violation ... that occurs in a county whose population is 100,000 or more if the 

portion of highway being traversed is in (a) an urban district, or (b) an area which is adjacent to an urban area and which 

has been designated by the public authority that established the posted speed limit for the portion of highway being 

traversed as an area that requires strict observance of the posted speed limit to protect public health and safety.” 

§484.3685(3) 
SPEED 2005 160

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): I. Suspension via a point system.298 §§483.473 and 483.475 

and NAC 483.500 and 483.510 

 

II. Suspension — 6 offenses within 5 years with a point value 

of ≥4. §483.475(4) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): 

 I. Suspension via point system — 6 months to 1 year. 

§483.475(3) 

II. Suspension — 1 year for 6 offenses within 5 years with a 

point value of ≥4. §483.475(4) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: I. Suspension via point system. Under certain conditions, an 

offender is eligible for restricted driving privileges for 

employment and other necessities.299 §483.490 

II. Suspension — 1 year mandatory for 6 offenses within 5 

years with a point value of ≥4. A restricted license is not 

available. §483.475(4) 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Alternative to Imprisonment or Fine: The court may 

 order an offender to participate in community service in lieu 

of all or part of an imprisonment or fine. §193.150(2) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Reckless Driving (Speed Contest on Highway)300: Misdemeanor. §§484.251(1) and 484.377 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 6 months. §193.150 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 

298Point System: I. If a person accumulates 12 points within 12 months, his/her license is suspended for 6 months. If 

within 3 years, a person has a second accumulation of 12 points within 12 months, his/her license is suspended for 1 year. 

Likewise, if within 5 years, a person has a third accumulation of 12 points within 12 months, his/her license is suspended 

for 1 year. §483.475(3). II. The following points have been assigned to speeding or speed-related violations: reckless 

driving — 8 points; careless driving — 6 points; speeding in school zone ≥16 mph over the limit — 6 points; speeding in 

school zone ≥1 but <15 mph over the limit — 4 points; speeding ≥21 mph over the posted speed limit — 4 points; speeding 

≥15 mph over the speed limit in a vehicle used for commercial purposes — 4 points; speeding ≥16 mph but ≤20 mph over 

the speed limit — 3 points; speeding ≥11 mph but <15 mph over the speed limit-2 points; excessive speeding for the 

conditions-2 points; and, speeding ≥1 mph but ≤10 mph over the speed limit — 1 point. NAC 483.510 299For a suspension based on a first of second accumulation of 12 points within 12 months, an offender is eligible for 

restricted driving privileges. §483.475(3)(a) and (b). However, such privileges are not available for a third such 

accumulation. §483.475(3)(c) 

300A person commits the offense of "reckless driving" if he/she (1) "drives in willful or wanton disregard of the safety of 

persons or property" or (2) "drives a vehicle in an unauthorized speed contest on a public highway." §484.377(1)(a) and (b) 
161 SPEED 2005 

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. §193.150 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

 Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: I. Suspension via a point system. §§483.473 and 483.475 and 

NAC 483.500 and 483.510 

II. Suspension — 6 offenses within 5 years with a point value 

of ≥4. §483.475(4) 

III. Revocation — 3 Reckless Driving Convictions within 1 

year. §483.460(1)(b)(4) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: I. Suspension via point system — 6 months to 1 year. 

§483.475(3) 

II. Suspension — 1 year for 6 offenses within 5 years with a 

point value of ≥4. §483.475(4) 

III. Revocation — 3 Reckless Driving Convictions within 1 

year — 1 year. §483.460(1)(b)(4) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: I. Suspension via point system. Under certain conditions, an 

offender is eligible for restricted driving privileges for 

employment and other necessities. §483.490 

II. Suspension — 1 year mandatory for 6 offenses within 5 

years with a point value of ≥4. A restricted license is not 

available. §483.475(4) 

III. Revocation — 3 Reckless Driving Convictions within 1 

year — none. §483.460(1)(b)(4) This revocation does not 

appear to be mandatory. A restricted license for employment 

and other necessities is available. 483.490 

 Other: The licensing agency can require a person who has had his/her 

license suspended via the point system to attend 

 a driver's training school. §483.477 

Death or Injury-related Offense: Reckless driving is a 

Category B felony if it involved willful or wanton disregard of 

the safety of persons or property that resulted in either death 

or substantial bodily injury. The criminal sanctions for this 

offense are either 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: imprisonment for 1 to 6 years and/or a fine of not more than 

$5,000. §484.377(2). In addition, a person’s 

 license is revoked for 3 years. §483.460(1)(a)(1). After onehalf of the revocation period has "expired," an offender may be 

issued a restricted license for employment and for other 

necessities. §483.490 
SPEED 2005 162

Aggressive Driving301: 

Sanction: Misdemeanor §484.3765(3) 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 6 months. §193.150(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. §193.150(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): First offense — Suspension. Subsequent offense (within 2 

years) — Revocation. §484.3765(3). Note: This licensing 

action is consecutive to any other license suspension or 

revocation. §484.3765(5) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — not more than 30 days. Subsequent offense

(within 2 years) — 1 year. §484.3765(3) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — none; subsequent offense (within 2 years) — 

1 year. §484.3765(3) 

Other: First offense — An offender is required to attend a course on 

traffic safety. 

§484.3765(3). Note: If the offender successfully completes 

this course, three (3) points may be canceled from his/her 

driving record. §484.3765(7) 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators302: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she (1) commits 2 "serious traffic 

violations"303 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 such 

violations within a 3-year period. §483.908, NAC 706.247(1) 

and 49 CFR §383.51(c) 

 

359A person commits "Aggressive Driving” if, during a course of one (1) mile, he/she does ALL of the following in any 

sequence: I. violates (a) the basic speed rules (driving greater than is reasonable or at a rate of speed so as to endanger life, 

limb or property), (b) the speed limit in a school zone, (c) the posted speed limit, or (d) the prohibition against driving >75

mph; II. commits TWO (2) or more of the following offenses: (a) failing to obey a traffic control device (§484.278); (b) 

overtaking and passing another vehicle on the right by driving off the paved portion of the highway (§484.297); (c) driving 

unsafely or improperly upon a highway that has marked lanes for traffic (§484.305); (d) following another vehicle too 

closely (§484.307); or (e) failing to yield the right of way (§§484.315 and 484.323); and III. creates an immediate hazard, 

regardless of its duration, to another vehicle or to another person. §484.3765(1) 

302A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥10,001 lbs., is designed to transport 15 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. NAC 706.247(f) 303A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §483.908, NAC 

706.247(1) and 49 CFR §383.5 
163 SPEED 2005 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §483.908, 

NAC 706.247(1) and 49 CFR §383.51(c) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §483.908, 

NAC 706.247(1) and 49 CFR §383.51(c) 
SPEED 2005 164

JURISDICTION: NEW HAMPSHIRE

General Reference: New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated and New 

Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules (NHCAR) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: A person shall not drive a vehicle at a 

speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the 

conditions, having regard to the actual and potential hazards 

then existing. §265:60 (I) 

Statutory Speed Limit: Operating a motor vehicle above the following speed limits is 

considered prima facie evidence that such speed is considered 

prima facie evidence that such speed is unreasonable. 

§265:60 (III) 

See Other below. 

1) 65 mph on the interstate system and other highways 

designated via statute304 §265:60 (II)(e) 

2) 55 mph on other highways §265:60 (II)(d) 

3) 35 mph in rural residential districts and class V highways 

outside the compact part of a city or town §265:60 (II)(c) 

4) 30 mph in a business or urban residential district §265:60 

(II)(b) 

5) 10 mph below the usual posted speed limit in a school 

zone305 §265:60 (II)(a) 

6) 10 mph below the usual posted speed limit but in no case 

>45 mph on a portion of a highway where persons are at work 

§265:60 (II)(f) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations or in the 

event of vehicle or weather emergencies, the State 

Commissioner of Transportation may increase or decrease the 

prima facie limit on the State highway system or on highways 

outside the compact area of a city or town.306 §265:62 (I) and 

236:7 

 II. Based on a petition by the governing body of a local 

government, the State Commissioner of Transportation may 

decrease the prima facie speed limit on the State highway 

system within the compact area of a city or 

 town. However, such reduced limit cannot be <25 mph. 

§265:62 (IV) 

 

304Such designations include those portions of the central and eastern New Hampshire turnpikes that are four-lane divided 

highways and on other divided highways that have four or more lanes. §265:60 (II)(e) 

305This limit is in effect from 45 minutes before until 45 minutes after school hours. §265:60 (II)(a) 306The State Commissioner of Transportation, upon a determination by the governor and council, may establish temporary 

prima facie speed limits for the purpose of conserving fuel or for other national goals. §265:62 (II). Note: New 

Hampshire law indirectly establishes different types of speed limits for different times of the day by providing that “signs 

may carry either a fixed speed limit legend or a changeable message so designed as to permit display or different speed 

limits at various times of the day or night.” §265:62 (I) and 236:7. However, the law does not specifically state whether 

different highway speed limits can be established for different types of vehicles. 
165 SPEED 2005 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) III. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, local 

governments may increase or decrease prima facie speed 

limits within their jurisdictions.307 §265:63 (I) and(II) 

 IV. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Commissioner of Transportation may establish safe maximum 

speed limits for bridges and other elevated structures. 

§265:66 (IV) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. A person shall not drive a vehicle at such a slow speed as to 

impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic. 

§265:64 (I) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §265:16 (II) 

 Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Commissioner of Transportation may declare a minimum 

prima facie speed limit on a highway. §265:64 (II). Note: Via 

signs, “specified traffic” (e.g. slower moving traffic) may be 

directed to use designated lanes. §265.24 (III) 

 

Other: I. A person shall not drive a vehicle that is towing a house 

trailer >45 mph. §265:66 (I) 

II. A person shall not drive a vehicle that is equipped with solid 

rubber or cushion tires >10 mph. §265.66 (II) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law offenses are violations.308 §§265:2 and 625:9 

(II)(b) 

Other: 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): None

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. §651:2 (IV)(a) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: An offender may be required to attend a Driver Attitude 

Training program. §263:56-e 

 Other: N/A 

 

307However, the following limitations apply: a speed limit in an urban district cannot be increased to more than 60 mph; and 

a speed cannot be decreased to less than 25 mph either outside an urban district or within a business or residential district. 

§265:63 (I) 

308A violation does not constitute a crime. §625:9 (II)(b) 
SPEED 2005 166

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action (Susp/Rev): I. Suspension via court order. §263:57 

 II. Suspension via a point system.309 §263:56 (I)(c) and (II) 

III. Revocation for 3 traffic offenses within 1 year. §§263:55 

and 263:56 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): I. Suspension via court order — not more than 30 days. 

§263:57 

II. Suspension via a point system — not more than 1 year. 

§263:56 (I)(c) and (III) 

III. Revocation for 3 traffic offenses within 1 year-30 days to 

1 year. §§263:55 and 263:56 (III) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: I. Suspension via court order — none. Action is discretionary 

with the court. §263:57 

II. Suspension via a point system — suspensions occurring 

under this system appear to be mandatory.6

 §263:56 (I)(c) and 

(II)I and NHCAR Saf-C 211.04(b) 

III. Revocation for 3 traffic offenses within 1 year-30 days. 

§§263:55 This licensing action appears to be mandatory. 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: N/A 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Violation. §265:75 

Sanctions: 

 

309Point System: I. A person ≥21 years old is subject to either a 3-month, 6-month or 1-year suspension if he/she 

respectively accumulates either 12 points within 1 year, 18 points within 2 years or 24 points within 3 years. Persons ≥18 

but <21 years old are subject to either a 3-month, 6-month or 1 year suspension if they respectively accumulate either 9 

points within 1 year, 15 points within 2 years or 21 points within 3 years. Persons <18 years old are subject to either a 3-

month, 6-month or 1 year suspension if they respectively accumulate either 6 points within 1 year, 12 points within 2 years 

or 18 points within 3 years. NHCAR Saf-C 212.02 II. The following points have been assigned for speeding or speedrelated violations: racing on the highway or reckless driving — 6 points; exceeding the speed limit by ≥25 mph — 4 points; 

not driving in the right lane when operating a slow moving vehicle — 4 points; and, exceeding the speed limit by <25 mph 

— 3 points. NHCAR Saf-C 212.03(c)(16), (d)(2) and (5), (e)(14) and (15). Persons 16 to 18 Years Old: For violations of 

the traffic laws, licensees who are 16 to 18 years are subject to license suspensions or revocations as follows: 1 offense 

during first year of being licensed-20 days; 2 offenses during the first 2 years of being licensed-45 days; and 3 or more 

offenses during the first 2 years of being licensed-90 days. §263:14 (III)(a) and (b) 

Persons Under 20 Years Old: These licensees are subject to license suspension or revocation if they operate a motor 

vehicle in such a manner that “poses an immediate hazard to the operator or to the safety or property of others on or near a 

roadway, or when considered with other driving offenses, demonstrates a repeated disregard for the public safety.” §263:14 

(III)(d) 
167 SPEED 2005 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term: 

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. §651:2 (IV)(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: The administrative licensing actions listed for speeding 

violations also apply to this offense. 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: N/A 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: N/A 

Other: An offender may be required to attend a Driver 

Attitude Training program. §263:56-e 

Reckless Driving: Violation. §265:79 

Sanctions: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

Fine ($ Range): $250 to $500. §265:79 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: $250. §265:79 

 Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

(Susp/Rev): Revocation310 §§263:65 and 265:79 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — 60 days; second offense — 60 days to 1 

year. §265:79 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First or second offense — 60 days. §263:70. This licensing 

action appears to be mandatory. 

Other: I. An offender may be required to attend a Driver Attitude 

Training program. §263:56-e 

II. A driver's license can be suspended or revoked for not 

more than 7 yrs if the driver operates a vehicle in a reckless or 

unlawful manner and causes an accident that results in either 

death or injury to another person. §263:56 (I)(g) and (III)(a) 

 

310Negligent Driving: A person commits a violation and is subject to a fine of not more than $1,000 if he/she drives a 

vehicle in a negligent manner that endangers or is likely to endanger any person or property. §265:79-b and 651:2 (IV)(a) 
SPEED 2005 168

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators311: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

traffic violations"312 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 

such violations within a 3-year period. §263:94 (I)(e) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days. §263:94 (I)(e) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §263:94 

(I)(e) 

 

311 The administrative licensing actions listed for speeding violations also appear to apply to this offense. A person who has 

obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. A commercial motor 

vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross vehicle weight of 

≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which requires that the 

vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §259:12-e (I) 

312A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §259:98-a (I) and 

(II) 
169 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: NEW JERSEY

General Reference: New Jersey Statutes Annotated and New Jersey 

Administrative Code (NJAC) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

 Basic Speed Rule: A person shall drive a vehicle at an 

appropriate reduced rate of speed when special hazards exist 

with respect to pedestrians or other traffic or by reason of 

weather or highway condition.313 Required reduced rates of 

speed also include (1) approaching and crossing an 

intersection or railway grade crossing, (2) approaching and 

going around a curve, (3) approaching a hill crest and (4) 

traveling upon any narrow or winding roadway. §39:4-98 

Statutory Speed Limit: I. 65 mph on selected portions of State eligible public 

highways314 as determined by the State Commissioner of 

Transportation in consultation with the State attorney general, 

the N.J. Highway Authority and the N.J. Transportation 

Authority §§39:4-98.4 and 39:4-98.5 

II. It is prima facie unlawful for a person to exceed the 

following speed limits. §39:4-98 

1) 50 mph in all other locations except as otherwise provided 

§39:4-98 

2) 35 mph in suburban business or residential district §39:4-98 

3) 25 mph in a (non-suburban) business or residential district 

§39:4-98 

4) 25 mph when passing through a school zone during recess, 

while children are visible from the highway or when children 

are either going to or leaving a school during opening and 

closing hours §39:4-98 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Commissioner of Transportation on State highways or local 

governments on highways under their jurisdictions may 

increase or decrease the above speed limits. These new limits 

will be the prima facie lawful 

 

313I. On highways under the jurisdiction of the South Jersey Transportation, New Jersey Turnpike or the New Jersey 

Highway Authorities, a person shall operate a vehicle at a careful and prudent speed, having due regard to the rights and 

safety of others and to the traffic, surface and width of the highway and any other conditions then existing; no person shall 

operate a vehicle at a speed as to endanger life, limb or property. §§27:12B-18(c), 27:23-27 and 27:25A-21(c) II. On 

highways under the jurisdiction of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, persons shall not operate a vehicle at a 

speed so as to endanger unreasonably or to be likely to endanger unreasonably persons or property. §§32:1-154.3 and 32:1-

154.18(2) 

330An “eligible public highway” is a “public highway” which includes “public roads, streets, expressways, freeways, 

parkways, motorways and boulevards, including bridges, tunnels, overpasses, underpasses, interchanges....” §27:1B-3(l) 

Public highways, under the jurisdiction of counties or municipalities, are not eligible for the 65 mph speed limit. §39:4-

98.4 
SPEED 2005 170

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

 speed limits.315 §§39:4-8(b) and 39:4-98 

 II. The State Highway Commissioner or a local government 

on highways under its jurisdiction may designate the righthand lanes of traffic for slow-moving vehicles and inside lanes 

for traffic moving at the designated speed. §39:4-88(d) 

 III. The South Jersey Transportation, New Jersey Turnpike 

and the New Jersey Highway Authorities may establish speed 

limits on the highways under their respective jurisdictions. 

§§27:12B-18(c) and (e), 27:23-27 and 27:25A-21(c) and (e) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed 

as to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of 

traffic. §§27:12B-18(d), 27:23-27 , 27:25A-21(d) and 39:4-

97.1 

II. When driving on the inside lane of a highway which has 

been designated for the use of traffic proceeding at the posted 

speed limit, a person shall drive at approximately the speed 

authorized and shall not decrease their speed so as to 

unnecessarily block, hinder or retard traffic. §39:4-88(d) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: N/A 

Other: I. The State Commissioner of Transportation may restrict the 

maximum speed for trucks weighing ≥10,000 lbs. on 

highways with maximum speed limits ≥50 mph. However, 

such reduced limit can only be 5 mph below the normal speed 

limit. §39:4-98.1 

II. A person shall not operate a motor vehicle >4 mph across a 

sidewalk. §39:4-100 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: Speed Law violations appear to be petty Offenses316and317. 

 

331Via an emergency order, the State Commissioner of Transportation may establish speed limits for up to 60 days on any 

public highway based on emergent conditions such as construction work, dangerous conditions, extreme congestion or 

traffic problems, imminent peril or imminent risk to motorists or to the public safety. §39:4-98.9(a) 

333On highways under the jurisdiction of the South Jersey Transportation or the New Jersey Highway Authorities, (1) 

speeding, (2) reckless driving or (3) careless driving offenses that result in death, serious injury or property damage 

>$5,000 are respectively crimes of the third degree or high misdemeanors. §§27:12B-18(k) and 27:25A-21(k) The 

sanctions for a Crime of the Third degree/High misdemeanor are imprisonment from 3 to 5 years and/or a fine of not more 

than $15,000. §§2C:43-1(b), 2C:43-3(b)(1) and 2C:43-6(a)(3) 5

Statutory law does not provide a clear classification for this type of offense. However, State Supreme Court decisions hold 

that traffic violations are either “quasi-criminal” or petty offenses. “Quasi-criminal offenses are a ‘class of offenses against 

the public which have not been declared crimes, but wrongful against the general or local public which should be repressed 

or punished by forfeitures and penalties.’” (citations omitted). State v. Widmaier, 724 A.2d 241 at 251 (N.J. 1999), State v. 

Schreiber, 585 A.2d 945 (N.J. 1991), State v. Muniz, 571 A.2d 948(N.A. 1990) and State V. Macuk, 268 A.2d 1 (N.J. 

1970).
171 SPEED 2005 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

 §§27:12B-18(j), 27:23-32, 27:25A-21(j) and 39:4-104 and 

39:4-203 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions318: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, Etc.): Not more than 15 days. §§39:4-104 and 39:4-203 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): $50 to $200.319and320 §§39:4-104 and 39:4-203 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: Driver Improvement Program with a $100 fee. §§39:5-30.2, 

39:5-30.4 and 39:5-30.9 and NJAC §13:19-10.2(b) 

 Other: 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system.321 §39:5-30.5 et seq. 

 

334The following sanctions appear to apply for speeding on highways under the jurisdiction of the Port Authority of New 

York and New Jersey such as to endanger unreasonably or to be likely to endanger unreasonably persons or property: 

Imprisonment for not more than 60 days and/or a fine of not more than $500. §§32:1-154.16 and 32:1-154.21. See 

Footnote No. 5. 

335One dollar ($1) is added to any fine for the Body Armor Replacement Fund and $1 is also added for the N.J. Spinal 

Cord Research Fund. §39:5-41(d) and (e) 

336Construction Zone: The fine amount is double for a violation committed in an area of highway construction or repair. 

§39:4-203.5(b) 

321Point System: I. For the indicated point accumulations in a period of 2 years or less, the following suspension periods 

apply: 12 to 15 points — 30 days suspension; 16 to 18 points — 60 days suspension; 19 to 21 points — 90 days suspension; 

22 to 24 points — 120 days suspension; 25 to 27 points — 150 days suspension; and ≥28 points — 180 days suspension. 

For the indicated point accumulations in a period greater than 2 years, the following suspension periods apply: 15 to 18 

points — 30 days suspension; 19 to 22 points — 60 days suspension; 23 to 26 points — 90 days suspension; 27 to 30 points 

— 120 days suspension; 31 to 35 points-150 days suspension; and ≥36 points — 180 days suspension. §39:5-30.8 and 

NJAC §13:19-10.2(a). II. The following points have been assigned to speeding and speed-related violations: racing on 

highway — 5 points; reckless driving — 5 points; careless driving-2 points; slow speed blocking traffic or not maintaining 

the proper speed in a designed traffic lane — 2 points; exceeding speed limit ≥1 but ≤14 mph — 2 points; exceeding speed 

limit ≥15 but ≤29 mph — 4 points; and exceeding speed limit ≥30 — 5 points. §39:4-97.2 and NJAC §13:19-10.1 

Alternative Licensing and Possible Registration Action: A person’s license or vehicle’s registration certificate may be 

suspended or revoked (for an indefinite period of time) under general provisions of the law which allows the State to take 

such action when a person has violated the traffic laws. §§39:5-30 and 39:5-31 

Preliminary Licensing Action: The State may issue a “preliminary” (immediate) license suspension without a hearing 

prior to any final action based on an allegation that a person has committed either (1) a speeding offense where he/she 

exceeded the authorized speed limit by 20 mph, (2) reckless driving or (3) careless driving where any of the “alleged” 

offenses resulted in a death or a serious bodily injury to another. An aggrieved party may request a timely hearing on such 

preliminary action. §39:5-30(e) 
SPEED 2005 172

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Suspension via a point system-30 to 180 days. §39:5-30.8 

However, if a person has had 3 suspensions within 3 years, 

discretionary suspension for up to 3 years. §39:5-30b 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None. Attendance at a Driver Improvement Program may be 

used in lieu of all or part of a suspension. §39:5-30.2 and 

NJAC §13:19-10.2(b) 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Double Fines: (1) On a public highway with a speed limit of 

65 mph, the fine is double the usual amount if a person 

operates a motor vehicle ≥10 mph over this limit. §39:4-98.6. 

(2) The fine amount is double for exceeding ANY prima facie

speed limit by ≥20 mph. 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Quasi-criminal/Petty Offense (§39:4-52) or Disorderly Person 

Offense. §39:5C — 1 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Petty Offense: None. §39:4-52. Disorderly Person Offense: 

first offense — none; subsequent offense — not more than 90 

days. §39:5C-1 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): For either a petty offense or a disorderly person offense: first 

offense — $25 to $100; subsequent offense — $100 to $200.

§§39:4-52 and 39:5C-1 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension via a point system. §39:5-30.5 et seq. 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Suspension via a point system-30 to 180 days. §39:5-30.8 

However, if a person has had 3 suspensions within 3 years, 

discretionary suspension for up to 3 years. §39:5-30b 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: None. Attendance at a Driver Improvement Program 

 with a $100 fee may be used in lieu of all or part of a 

suspension. §§35:5-30.2, 39:5-30.4, NJAC §13:19-10.2(b) 

and13:19-10.3 

Other: Double Fines: For racing on a public highway with a speed 

limit of 65 mph, the fine is double the usual amount. §39:4-

98.6 
173 SPEED 2005 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding:. 

(continued) 

Reckless Driving: Quasi-criminal/Petty Offense.§§27:12B-18(b) and (j), 27:23-

26, 27:23-32, 27:25A-21(b) and (j) and 39:4-96 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — not more than 60 days; subsequent offense 

— not more than 3 months. §39:4-96 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $50 to $200; subsequent offense — $100 to 

$500. §39:4-96 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system. §39:5-30.5 et seq. 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension via a point system-30 to 180 days. §39:5-30.8 

However, if a person has had 3 suspensions within 3 years, 

discretionary suspension for up to 3 years. §39:5-30b 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. Attendance at a Driver Improvement Program with a 

$100 fee may be used in lieu of all or part of a suspension. 

§§39:5-30.2 and 39:5-30.4 and NJAC §13:19-10.2(b) and 

13:19-10.3 

Other: Double Fines: For a person who commits reckless driving on 

a public highway with a speed limit of 65 mph, the fine is 

double the usual amount. §39:4-98.6 

Careless Driving322: Petty Offense. §§27:12B-18(b) and (j), 27:32-26, 27:32-32, 

27:25A-21(b) and (j), 32:1-154.3, 32:154.18(2) and 39:4-97 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 15 days. §39:4-104 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): $50 to $200. §39:4-104 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system. §39:5-30.5 et seq. 

Length of term of License 

 

 

322"Careless driving" is defined as operating "a vehicle carelessly, or without due caution and circumspection, in a manner 

so as to endanger, or be likely to endanger, a person or property." §39:4-97 
SPEED 2005 174

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Withdrawal Action: Suspension via a point system — 30 to 180 days. §39:5-30.8 

However, if a person has had 3 suspensions within 

 3 years, discretionary suspension for up to 3 years. §39:5-

30b 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. Attendance at a Driver Improvement Program with a 

$100 fee may be used in lieu of all or part of a suspension. 

§§39:5-30.2 and 39:5-30.4 and NJAC §13:19-10.2(b) and 

13:19-10.3 

Other: Double Fines: For a person who commits careless driving on 

a public highway with a speed limit of 65 mph, the fine is 

double the usual amount. §39:4-98. 

Unsafe Driving323: Quasi-criminal/Petty Offense. §39:4-97.2 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $50 to $150; second offense (within 5 years) 

— $100 to $250; third or subsequent offense (within 5 years) 

— $200 to $500. §39:4-97.2 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system. For a third or subsequent 

offense, points are added to a person’s driving record. 

§§39:4-97.2 and 39:5-30.5 et seq. 

Length of term of License 

Withdrawal Action: Suspension via a point system — 30 to 180 days. §39:5-30.8 

However, if a person has had 3 suspensions within 3 years, 

discretionary suspension for up to 3 years. §39:5-30b 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. Attendance at a Driver Improvement Program with a 

$100 fee may be used in lieu of all or part of a suspension. 

§§39:5-30.2 and 39:5-30.4 and NJAC 

 §13:19-10.2(b) and 13:19-10.3 

Other: N/A 

 

323"[I]t shall be unlawful for any person to drive or operate a motor vehicle in an unsafe manner likely to endanger a person 

or property.” §39:4-97.2 
175 SPEED 2005 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators324: 

Grounds for Suspension: A person's privilege for operate a CMV is suspended if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she (1) commits 2 "serious traffic 

violations"325 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 such 

violations within a 3-year period. §39:3-10.20(f) 

Period of Suspension: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. 

§39:3-10.20(f) 

Period of Mandatory Suspension: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §39:3-

10.20(f) 

 

324A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, is designed to transport >8 but <16 persons if 

used to transport persons for hire on a daily basis to and from places of employment, or is transporting hazardous materials 

which requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §39:3-

10.11 

325A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §39:3-10.11 
SPEED 2005 176

JURISDICTION: NEW MEXICO

General Reference: New Mexico Statutes Annotated and New Mexico 

Administrative Code (NMAC) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

 Basic Speed Rule: Speed shall be so controlled as to avoid 

colliding with any person or vehicle that is either on or 

entering the highway. All persons shall use due care.326 §66-

7-301(B) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 75 mph on highways §66-7-301(A)(3) 

See Other below. 30 mph in business and residential districts §66-7-301(A)(2) 

15 mph in a posted school zone327 §66-7-301(A)(1) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Transportation Commission may increase to not >75 mph or 

decrease the above speed limits on any highway within its 

jurisdiction.328 §66-7-303(A) 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations and subject 

to approval by the State Transportation Commission, a local 

government may increase or decrease the above speed limits 

on any highway within its jurisdiction. §66-7-303 (B) and 66-

7-304 

III. Based upon investigations, the State Transportation 

Commission may establish safe maximum speed limits for 

bridges and other elevated structures. §66-7-306(C) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed 

as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic. 

§66-7-305(A) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §66-7-308(B) 

 Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Transportation Commission or a local government may 

establish minimum speed limits on a highway. §66-7-305(B). 

Note: Via signs, slower moving traffic may be directed to use 

designated lanes. §66-7-317(C) 

Other: I. The State or a local government may establish speed 

limits in construction zones. §66-7-303.1 

II. A person shall not operate a motor vehicle that is equipped 

with solid rubber or cushion tires >10 mph. §66-7-306(A) 

 

326See Careless Driving. 327This speed limit is in effect when children are going to or leaving a school. §66-7-301(A)(1) 328Note: New Mexico law does not specifically state whether different highway speed limits may be established for 

different types of vehicles, for various weather conditions or for different times of the day. 
177 SPEED 2005 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are penalty assessment 

misdemeanors. §§66-8-7(A) and 66-8-116(A) 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): None

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): $15 to $200.329 §66-8-116(A) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: N/A 

 Other: In lieu of a court appearance, an offender may elect to pay a 

penalty assessment.

330 §66-8-116. For a penalty assessment, 

an offender is assessed additional fees to cover various 

costs.331 §66-8-116.3 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system332 based on frequent 

 violation of the traffic laws333. §66-5-30(A)(3) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 

 

329An offender who is cited for a penalty assessment misdemeanor may elect to appear in court. In such cases, the fine 

imposed cannot exceed that established for an offense under §66-8-116(A). 330Penalty Assessments: The following monetary assessments are assigned for speeding violations: (1) driving so as to 

impede traffic or not driving in the right lane when not proceeding at the normal speed or traffic — $10; (2) driving ≤10 

mph over the speed limit or exceeding other posted speed limits — $15; (3) driving ≥11 to ≤15 mph over the speed limit — 

$30; (4) driving ≥16 to ≤20 mph over the speed limit — $65; (5) driving ≥21 to ≤25 mph over the speed limit — $100; (6) 

driving ≥26 to ≤30 mph over the speed limit — $125; (7) driving ≥31 to ≤35 mph over the speed limit — $150; and, (8) 

driving >35 mph over the speed limit — $200. §66-8-116(A) Speeding in a construction zone results in an assessment 

twice the penalty for the equivalent mph over the limit. §66-8-116(D). 

331The following additional fees are assessed: a fee of $20 to cover local government corrections costs; a fee of $10 to cover 

the costs of court automation; a fee of $3 to fund traffic education and enforcement; a fee of $2 to fund judicial education; a

fee of $5 which is deposited into the brain injury services fund; and a court facilities fee of $10 — $24. §66-8-116.3 332Point System: I. An offender's license is suspended for not more than 3 months if he/she accumulates between 7 and 10 

points within 1 year. §66-5-30(A)(11) and Title 18 NMAC 19.5.54. However, the offender is subject to a 12 month 

suspension if he/she accumulates 12 or more points within 12 consecutive months. Title 18 NMAC 19.5.55. II. The 

following points have been assigned for speeding or speed-related violations: speeding ≥26 mph over the speed limit — 8 

points; reckless driving — 6 points; racing on highway — 6 points; speeding 16 to 25 mph over the speed limit — 5 points; 

speeding 6 to 15 mph over the speed limit — 3 points; careless driving — 3 points; and, not proceeding at the normal speed 

of traffic except when driving in the right lane — 3 points. Title 18 NMAC 19.5.52. Note: The point schedule does not 

assigned points driving at such a slow speed as to impede traffic. 

333Exception: The licensing agency cannot suspend an offender's license for a speeding violation unless the offender was 

driving >75 mph on highways or in posted limit construction zones.. §66-7-302.1 
SPEED 2005 178

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Not more than 1 year. §66-5-32 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None. Note: An offender is eligible for limited driving 

privileges for educational or employment purposes. §66-5-35 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: N/A 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Misdemeanor. §66-8-115(A) and (D) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 90 days. §66-8-7(B) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $300. §66-8-7(B) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension via a Points system based either on (1) frequent 

violations of the traffic laws or (2) habitually reckless or 

negligent driving. §66-5-30(A)(3) and (4) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Not more than 1 year. §66-5-32(A) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: None. Note: An offender is eligible for limited driving 

privileges for employment purposes. §66-5-35 

Other: N/A 

Reckless Driving: Misdemeanor. §§66-8-7(A) and 66-8-113(A) 

 Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — 5 to 90 days; subsequent offense — 10 days 

to 6 months. §66-8-113(B) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $25 to $100; subsequent offense — $50 to 

$1,000. §66-8-113(B) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension. §66-8-113(C). Revocation for 3 offenses within 

12 months §66-5-29(A)(7) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension — not more than 90 days. §66-8-113(C). 

Revocation for 3 offenses within 12 months — 1 year. §66-

5-29(B) 
179 SPEED 2005 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. Note: An offender is eligible for limited driving 

privileges for employment purposes. §66-5-35 

Other: Suspension is also possible via a Points system based either 

on (1) frequent violations of the traffic laws or (2) habitually 

reckless or negligent driving. §66-5-30(A)(3) and (4) 

Careless Driving350: Misdemeanor. §66-8-114(A) and (B) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 90 days. §66-8-7(B) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $300. §66-8-7(B) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system based either on (1) frequent 

violations of the traffic laws or (2) habitually reckless or 

negligent driving. §66-5-30(A)(3) and (4) 

Length of Term of License 

Withdrawal Action: Not more than 1 year. §66-5-32(A) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. Note: An offender is eligible for limited driving 

privileges for employment purposes. §66-5-35 

Other: 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators351: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

traffic violations352" within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 

such violations within a 3-year period. §66-5-68(E) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days. §66-5-68(E) 

 

334The offense of "careless driving" includes either (1) operating a vehicle without giving "full time and entire attention" to 

vehicle operation or (2) operating a vehicle "in a careless, inattentive or imprudent manner, without due regard for the 

width, grade, curves, corners, traffic, other and road conditions and other attendant circumstances." §66-8-114(A) and (B) 

335A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §66-1-4.3(J) and 

66-5-54(B) 

336A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §66-5-54(I)(1) 

and (2) 
SPEED 2005 180

JURISDICTION: NEW YORK

General Reference: McKinney's Consolidated Laws of New York Note: Most 

citations are to the Vehicle and Traffic Law (V & T Law). 

New York Code of Rules and Regulations (NYCRR) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: A person shall not drive a vehicle at a 

speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the 

conditions and having regard to the actual and potential 

hazards then existing. V & T Law §1180(a) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 65 mph on parts of certain designated highways.337 V & T 

Law §1180 — a(2) Repealed December 1, 2005.

See Other below 

55 mph. V & T Law §§1180(b) and 1180-a(1) (V & T Law 

§1180-a repealed on December 1, 2005) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. The State Department of Transportation may establish 

maximum speed limits > or <55 mph338 (1) on highways under 

its jurisdiction,339 (2) on county or town roads not in cities or 

villages via a request by a county or town, or (3) on highways 

on State educational, institutional or agency grounds via a 

request from the controlling organizations. V & T Law 

 

362A speed limit of 65 mph speed limit may be established on the following highways: (1) “The Governor Thomas E. 

Dewey Thruway as such term is defined in section356 of the public authorities law...” (Note: The law specifically prohibits 

such a speed limit on certain portions of this highway. See V & T law §1180-a(2) for details.); and, (2) (a) the southern tier

expressway from a point east of the town of Lowman, the County of Chemung, thence generally westerly to the 

Pennsylvania border and from the Chemung interchange to New York touring Route 26, (b) interstate Route 81 from the 

Pennsylvania border in Broome County to the interchange with New York touring Route 12 in Jefferson County, (c) the 

Adirondack northway portion of interstate Route 87 from the interchange with crescent road in Saratoga county to the 

province of Quebec, (d) interstate Route 88 from the interchange with New York state touring Route 369 in Broome 

County to the interchange with interstate Route 90 in Schenectady County, (e) interstate Route 390, known as the Genesee 

Expressway, from the interchange with the southern tier expressway in Steuben County to the interchange with interstate 

Route 490 in Monroe County, (f) interstate Route 490 from interstate Route 90 exit 45 in Ontario County to the City of 

Rochester in Monroe County and from interstate 90 exit 47 in Genesee County to the City of Rochester in Monroe County, 

(g) interstate Route590 from the interchange with interstate Route 390 in Monroe County to the interchange with interstate 

Route 490 in Monroe County, (h) Route 17 from the interchange with New York touring Route394 to the Pennsylvania 

boarder, (i) interstate Route 481 from the southerly interchange with interstate Route 81 in Onondaga county to the 

northerly interchange with interstate Route 81 in Onondaga county ... [and] New York state touring Route 481 from the 

northerly interchange with interstate Route 81 in Onondaga county to the city of Fulton in Oswego county.... V & T Law 

§1180-a(2) and (3) Repealed December 1, 2005. 338Usually, such speed limits cannot be <25 mph or <15 mph in a school zone. V & T Law §§1620(a) and 1622(1) 

However, on highways within certain designed areas, the speed limit within a county or town cannot be <30 mph. V & T 

Law §1622(2) 

339This applies to State maintained highways outside of cites with a population >1 million and on Indian reservations. V & 

T Law §1620(a) 
181 SPEED 2005 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

 §§1180(c) and (d)(1), 1620(a), 1622(1) and 1623(a). Note: 

New York law does not specifically state 

whether different highway speed limits may be established for 

different types of vehicles, for various weather conditions, or 

for different times of the day. 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: II. Certain State-created public authorities and commissions 

may establish maximum speed limits <55 mph on highways 

under their jurisdictions.340 V & T Law §§1180(c) and (d)(1), 

1180-a(1) and 1630(5) 

III. Towns341 may establish maximum speed limits <55 mph342

on roads within their exclusive jurisdictions. V & T Law 

§§1180(c) and (d)(1), 1180-a(1) and 1662-a 

IV. Cities and villages may establish maximum speed limits 

<55 mph343 on roads within their exclusive jurisdictions. V & 

T Law §§1180(c) and (d)(1), 1180-a(1) and 1643 

V. A city or village may establish maximum speeds of not 

<15 mph on certain private driveway or parking areas. V & T 

Law §1640-a(2-a) 

VI. Other local authorities or school districts may establish 

speed limits <55 mph on driveways or parking fields under 

their jurisdictions. V & T Law §§1180(d)(1) and 1670(3) 

 I. The State Department of Transportation may prohibit a 

local government from establishing maximum speed limits on 

certain designated State maintained highways. V & T Law 

§1624(a) 

II. Except as provided under V & T Law §1180-a(2) and (3) 

(Repealed December 1, 2005.) (See Footnote No. 1.) (1) 

Cities, (2) villages, (3) towns, (4) counties, (5) public 

authorities and (5) divisions and offices of the 

 

340Usually, such speed limits cannot be <25 mph or <15 mph in a school zone. However, there are exceptions. Lower safe 

speed limits may be established for bridges and elevated structures. A safe speed limit of not <10 mph may be established 

in parks, and a speed limit of not <5 mph may be established for passage through toll plazas. V & T Law §1630(5) 

341"Towns" means either suburban towns governed by Town Law Article 3-a or other towns with a population >50,000. V 

& T Law §1662-a 

342The established speed limit within designated areas of a town cannot be <30 mph, except that on certain designated 

highways, the speed limit cannot be <25 mph. Nevertheless, a speed limit of not <15 mph may be established in school 

zones. In the community of Point Lookout, Town of Hempstead, a speed limit of not <15 mph may be established. V & T 

Law §1662-a 

343I. The established speed limit within designated areas of a city or village cannot be <30 mph, except that on certain 

designated highways, the speed limit cannot be <25 mph. Nevertheless, a speed limit of not <15 mph may be established in 

school zones. In Buffalo and Rochester, a speed limit of not <15 mph may be established on a highway within a city park. 

V & T Law §1643 

 II. In cities with a population >1 million, speed limits <25 mph but in no case <15 mph may be established 

along designated highways for the “purpose of implementing traffic calming measures.” However, no such 

speed limit can be established were such measure consists only of traffic control signs. The term “traffic 

calming measures” means “any physical engineering measure or measures that reduce the negative effects of 

motor vehicle use, alter driver behavior and improve conditions for non-motorized street users such as 

pedestrians and bicyclists.” V & T Law §1642(26) 
SPEED 2005 182

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

State Department of Transportation are prohibited from 

establishing speed limits >55 mph. V & T Law §1180-a(1)(V 

& T Law §1180-a repealed on December 1, 2005) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed 

as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic. 

V & T Law §1181(a) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. V & T Law §1120(b) 

 Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: The State may establish minimum safe speed limits on 

highways under its jurisdiction or a city with a population >1 

million. V & T Law §§1181(b), 1620(b) and 1642(a)(5). 

Note: Via signs, slower moving traffic may be directed to use 

designated lanes. V & T Law §1128(c) 

Other: I. The State or local government may establish maximum safe 

speed limits on bridges and elevated structures on their 

respective highways. V & T Law §§1180(d)(1), 1620(c), 

1644, 1652 and 1663 

II. The State or a local government may establish maximum 

and minimum speed limits on restricted highways that are 

either under construction or reconstruction. Highway Law 

§104-a and V & T Law §§1180(d)(2) and 1625(a)(1) 

III. An agency having control over a street under construction 

or maintenance may establish a "work area speed limit" with a 

limit of not <25 mph. In addition, the usual speed limit cannot 

be exceed the work area speed limit by >20 mph. V & T Law 

§1180(f) 

IV. State university boards of trustees are authorized to adopt 

State traffic laws, which could include speed limits, on 

university streets. Education Law §360(1) 

V. School vehicles, when engaged in pupil transportation, 

cannot be driven >55 mph. However, local school districts 

may adopt a lower operating speed for such vehicles. 

Education Law §3624 

 VI. No person shall drive a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) 

with gross weight >10,000 lbs. (>18,000 lbs. if using 

radar/laser speed detector) >55 mph or above the posted speed 

limit. V & T Law §1180(g)(i) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are traffic infractions. V & T Law 

§§1180 and 1800(a) and Education Law §360(2) 

 Other: Education Law §3624 does not provide a sanction for driving 

a school vehicle >55 mph when transporting pupils. 
183 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, Etc.): Basic Speed Rule — not more than 15 days V & T Law 

§1180(h)(2) 

Violating the Minimum speed law (including not driving in 

the right lane when proceeding at less than the normal speed 

of traffic) or Posted Minimum Speed Limit — first offense —

not more than 15 days; second offense (within 18 months) — 

not more than 45 days; subsequent offense (within 18 

months) — not more than 90 days. V & T Law §1800(b) 

 Exceeding 55/65 mph or the Posted Speed Limits-(1) 

Exceeding speed limit ≤10 mph — none; (2) Exceeding speed 

limit >10 but <30 mph — not more than 15 days; (3) 

Exceeding the speed limit >30 mph — not more than 30 days. 

V & T Law §1180(h)(1) 

Established Construction Zones or CMV Speed Limit 

Violations-(1) exceeding speed limit ≤10 mph — none; (2) 

exceeding speed limit >10 but <30 mph — not more than 30 

days; (3) exceeding the speed limit >30 mph — not more than 

30 days. V & T Law §1180(h)(3) 

In addition to any other penalty, violation of a maximum 

speed limit in a work zone is subject to an additional 

surcharge of $50. §1809-D 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Basic Speed Rule — not more than $45 to $150344 V & T Law 

§1180(h)(2) 

Violating the Minimum speed law (including not driving in 

the right lane when proceeding at less than the normal speed 

of traffic) or Posted Minimum Speed Limit — first offense —

not more than $150; second offense(within 18 months) — not 

more than $300; 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Subsequent offense (within 18 months) — not more than 

$450. V & T Law §1800(b) 

Exceeding 55/65 mph or the Posted Speed Limits-(1) 

Exceeding speed limit ≤10 mph — $45 to $150; (2) 

Exceeding speed limit >10 but <30 mph — $90 to $300; (3) 

Exceeding the speed limit >30 mph — $180 to 

 $600. V & T Law §1180(h)(1) 

 

344Second offense (within 18 months) — the maximum fine that can be imposed is increased by $150 V & T Law 

§1180(h)(5); subsequent offense (within 18 months) — the maximum fine that can be imposed is increased by $375. V & 

T Law §1180(h)(5) 
SPEED 2005 184

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Established Construction Zones or CMV Speed Limit 

Violations-(1) Exceeding speed limit ≤10 mph — $90 to 

$150; (2) Exceeding speed limit >10 but <30 mph- 

$180 to $300; (3) Exceeding the speed limit >30 mph — $360 

to $600. V & T Law §1180(h)(3) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: The court may order an offender to attend a Driver 

Improvement Clinic. NYCRR §133.3 

 Other: School Speed Zone: The following sanctions apply if a 

person exceeds the applicable speed limit in a school zone 

during a school day between the hours of 7:00 A.M. and 6:00 

P.M.: (1) exceeding the speed limit by ≤10 mph, a fine of not 

less than $90 nor more than $300; (2) exceeding the speed 

limit by >10 mph but ≤30 mph, a fine of not less than $180 

nor more than $600 and/or imprisonment for not more than 

15 days; and (3) exceeding the speed limit by >30 mph, a fine 

of not less than $360 nor more than $1200 and/or 

imprisonment for not more than 30 days. V & T Law 

§1180(h)(4) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension or Revocation — Based Upon Habitual or 

Persistent Traffic Law Violations (point system).345 V & T 

Law §510(3)(d) 

Revocation — Based upon 3 or more offenses involving 

exceeding the speed limit, within 18 months. V & T Law 

§510(2)(a)(iv) 

 Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Suspension or Revocation — Based upon Habitual or 

Persistent Traffic Law Violations (point system) — note: The 

law does not provide specific suspension or revocation 

periods.346 V & T Law §510(3)(d) 

Revocation — Based upon 3 or more offenses involving 

exceeding the speed limit, within 18 months -At least 6 

months. V & T Law §510(6)(a) 

 

345Point System: I. An offender may be required to attend a Driver Improvement Clinic if he/she accumulates 7 to 10 

points within 18 months. 15 NYCRR §131.4(b) The licensing agency may take licensing action (suspension or revocation) 

if the offender has accumulated ≥11 points within 18 months or ≥9 points resulting from speeding violations within 18 

months. NYCRR §131.4(c) II. The following points have been assigned to speeding or speed-related violations: speeding 

>40 mph over the speed limit — 11 points; speeding >30 but ≤40 mph over the speed limit — 8 points; speeding >20 but 

≤30 mph over the speed limit — 6 points; reckless driving — 5 points; speeding >10 but ≤20 mph over the speed limit — 4 

points; and other violations related to exceeding the speed limit — 3 points. 15 NYCRR §131.3(a) and (b) 346In the case of "permissive" revocations, the law provides that a "new" license cannot be issued for at 30 days. V & T 

Law §510(6)(g) 
185 SPEED 2005 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: Suspension or Revocation — Based upon Habitual or 

Persistent Traffic Law Violations (point system) — none.

347 

Note: Suspension or revocation action is "permissive." V & 

T Law §510(3)(d) 

Revocation — none 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: The registrations of the vehicles owned by the offender may 

also be suspended or revoked. V & T Law §510(2)(a) and (3) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Misdemeanor. V & T Law §1182(1) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — not more than 30 days V & T Law §1182(1); 

second offense (within 12 months) — not more than 6 

months. V & T Law §1182(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $300 to $525 V & T Law §1182(1); second 

offense (within 12 months) — $525 to $750. V & T Law 

§1182(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Revocation. V & T Law §510(2)(a)(vi) and (vii) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: First offense — At least 6 months V & T Law §510(2)(a)(vi) 

and (6)(a); second offense (within 3 years) — 1 year. V & T 

Law §510(2)(a)(vii) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: None

Other: I. The registrations of the vehicles owned by the offender may 

also be revoked. V & T Law §510(2)(a) 

 II. The court may order an offender to attend a Driver 

Improvement Clinic. NYCRR §133.3 

Reckless Driving: Misdemeanor. V & T Law §§1212 and 1801(1) 

 Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — not more than 30 days; second offense

(within 18 months) — not more than 90 days; subsequent

offense (within 18 months) — not more than 180 days. V & 

T Law §1801(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

 

347A "restricted use license" is available if license suspension or revocation is ordered. Such license is issued upon a 

showing that driving is necessary for employment, business or education. V & T Law §530 
SPEED 2005 186

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Fine ($ Range): First offense — not more than $300; second offense (within 

18 months) — not more than $525; subsequent offense

(within 18 months) — not more than $1125. V & T Law 

§1801(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: First or subsequent offense — $100. V & T Law §1801(1) 

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension or Revocation — Based upon (1) Dangerous 

Driving or (2) Habitual or Persistent Traffic Law Violations 

(point system) V & T Law §510(3)(a) and (d) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Note: The law does not provide specific suspension or 

revocation periods. V & T Law §510(3)(a) and (d) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None.348 Note: Suspension or revocation action is 

"permissive." V & T Law §510(3)(a) and (d) 

Other: I. The registrations of the vehicles owned by the offender may 

also be suspended or revoked. V & T Law §510(3) 

II. The court may order an offender to attend a Driver 

Improvement Clinic. NYCRR §133.3 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators349: 

Grounds for Suspension: A person's CDL is suspended if while operating a CMV 

he/she (1) commits 2 "serious traffic violations"350 within a 3-

year period or (2) commits 3 such violations within a 3-year 

period. §510-a(3)(a) and (b) 

Period of Suspension: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; 

 3 serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. V & T Law 

§510-a(3)(a) and (b) 

Period of Mandatory Suspension: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; 

 3 serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. V & T Law 

§510-a(3)(a) and (b) 

 

 

348A "restricted use license" is available if license suspension or revocation is ordered. Such license is issued upon a 

showing that driving is necessary for employment, business or education. However, a person is not eligible for such 

privileges if he/she has been convicted of a prior reckless driving offense within 4 years of the present offense. V & T Law 

§530(2) 

349A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of more than 26,000 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials 

of any size other than a farm vehicle operated within 150 miles of the operator’s farm, which requires that the vehicle be 

placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. V & T Law §501-a(4) 350A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. V & T Law 

§510-a(4)(a) 
187 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: NORTH CAROLINA

General Reference: General Statutes of North Carolina 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is 

reasonable and prudent under the conditions then existing. 

§20-141(a) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 70 mph on the interstate highway system or other controlledaccess highways351 §20-141(d)(2) 

See Other below. 55 mph on highways outside municipal corporate limits §20-

141(b)(2) 

35 mph on highways inside municipal corporate limits §20-

141(b)(1) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and 

traffic investigations, the State Transportation Department 

may increase or decrease the above speed limits on State 

highways under its jurisdiction (e.g., outside the corporate 

limits of a municipality or unincorporated municipalities). 

§20-141(d), (f) and (g) 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, local 

governments may increase or decrease the above speed limits 

on streets under their jurisdictions. However, the maximum 

speed limit on any street cannot be >55 mph. §20-141(e) and 

(f) 

III. Except for overweight or oversized vehicles requiring 

special permits to use the highways or when weather or 

highway conditions require a slower speed, speed limits shall 

apply uniformly to all types of vehicles. §20-141(l) 

IV. Local authorities may post lower speed limits than 

provided for under §20-141(b) on public school property and 

on private school property subject to the approval of 

governing body of the private school. §20-141(e1) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall operate a motor vehicle at such a slow 

speed as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of 

traffic. §20-141(h) 

II. Except when making a left turn, no person shall operate a 

motor vehicle on the inside lane next to the median of any 

dual-lane highway at a speed below the posted speed limit if 

such slow speed would impede the steady flow of traffic. 

§20-146(e) 

 

351The maximum speed limit on these highways is 55 mph unless an engineering and traffic investigation justifies a higher 

speed limit. However, any increase in the speed limit cannot be >70 mph. §20-141(d)(2) 
SPEED 2005 188

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

III. A person driving at less than the legal maximum speed 

limit shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for thru 

traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge 

of the highway. §20-146(b) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: I. 40 mph on interstate and primary highways with a posted 

speed limit of 55 mph352 §20-141(c)(1) 

II. 45 mph on interstate and primary highways with a posted 

speed limit ≥60 mph §20-141(c)(2) 

 III. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Department of Transportation or a local government may 

establish a minimum speed limit on the streets and highways 

under their jurisdictions. §20-141(g) 

Other: I. The Board of Transportation or a local government may 

establish speed limits in designated school zones. These 

limits are in effect when school is in session. Such a limit 

cannot be <20 mph. §20-141.1 

II. The State Department of Transportation may establish safe 

maximum speed limits for bridges, causeways or viaducts. 

§20-144 

III. A school bus which is loaded with children shall not be 

driven >45 mph. §20-218(b) 

IV. A school activity bus which is loaded with children shall 

not be driven >55 mph. §20-218(b) 

V. When transporting persons, an activity bus which is owned 

by a nonprofit organization shall not be driven >55 mph. §20-

218.2 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: Except as Noted, speed law violations are infractions 

(noncriminal Offenses). §§14-3.1 and 20-176(a) 

Excessive Speeding is a Class 2 misdemeanor.353 §20-141(j1) 

A person who drives a school bus, a school activity bus, or a 

nonprofit activity bus in excess of the maximum statutory 

speed allowed for these vehicles commits a Class 3 

misdemeanor. §§20-218(c) and 20-218.2 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 

 

 

352This limit does not apply to vehicles that are towing other vehicles. §20-141(c) 353It is a Class 2 misdemeanor to operate a motor vehicle either (1) >15 mph over the posted speed limit or (2) >80 mph. 

§20-141(j1) 
189 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): Infraction — none.

Class 2 misdemeanor — 1 to 60 days.354 §15A-1340.23(c)(2) 

Class 3 misdemeanor — 1 to 20 days §15A-1340.23(c)(2) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None. See Highway Work Zone and School Property below 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Infraction — not more than $100. §20-176(b) 

Class 2 misdemeanor — not more than $1,000. §15A1340.23(b) 

Class 3 misdemeanor — not more than $200. §15A1340.23(b) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: Driver Improvement Clinic. §20-16(e) 

 Other: Highway Work Zone: There is a fine of $250 (mandatory) 

for exceeding the speed limit in a highway work zone. §20-

141(j2) 

School Zone or School Property: For exceeding the posted 

speed limit either (1) in a school zone or (2) on public or 

private school property where such limit was established 

pursuant to §20-141(e1), there is a mandatory fine of $25. 

§§20-141(e1) and 20-141.1 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action (Susp/Rev): I. Suspension via a point system.355 §20-16(a)(5) and (c) 

II. Suspension for 2 offenses within 12 months of Speeding 

>55 but <80 mph. §20-16(a)(9) 

III. Suspension for driving >75 mph on a highway with a 

posted speed limit of <70 mph. §20-16(a)(10) 

 

354The period of incarceration is determined by the number of prior misdemeanor offense convictions. I. For Class 1 

misdemeanors, if the offender has either had no prior or has had no more than 4 prior convictions, the incarceration period 

is from 1 to 45 days. However, if he/she has had 5 or more convictions, the incarceration period is from 1 to 120 days. II. 

For Class 2 misdemeanors, if the offender has had no prior convictions, the incarceration period is from 1 to 30 days. If 

he/she has had up to 4 prior convictions, the incarceration period is from 1 to 45 days, and, if there are 5 or more prior 

convictions, the incarceration period is from 1 to 60 days. III. For Class 3 misdemeanors, if the offender has had no prior 

convictions, the incarceration period is 1 to 10 days. If he/she has had up to 4 prior convictions, the incarceration period is 

from 1 to 15 days, and, if there are 5 or more prior convictions, the incarceration period is from 1 to 20 days. §15A1340.23(c)(2) 

355Point System: I. A person's license is subject to suspension if he/she accumulates 12 points within 3 years. II. The 

following points have been assigned to speeding or speed-related offenses: reckless driving — 4 points (5 points if 

operating a commercial motor vehicle); exceeding the posted speed limit of 55 mph — 3 points (4 points if operating a 

commercial motor vehicle); exceeding the posted speed limit in a school zone — 3 points (4 points if operating a 

commercial motor vehicle); and, all other speed violations-2 points (3 points if operating a commercial motor vehicle). 

§20-16(a)(5) and (c) 
SPEED 2005 190

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

IV. Suspension for driving >80 mph on a highway with a 

posted speed limit of 70 mph. §20-16(a)(10a) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): I. Suspension via a point system — not more than 1 year.

§20-19(c) 

II. Suspension for 2 offenses within 12 months of Speeding 

>55 but <80 mph — not more than 6 months. §20-19(a) 

III. Suspension for driving >75 mph on a highway with a 

posted speed limit of <70 mph — not more than 12 months. 

§20-19(b) 

IV. Suspension for driving >80 mph on a highway with a 

posted speed limit of 70 mph — not more than 1 year. §20-

19(c) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: I. Suspension via a point system — none. §20-16(a)(5) and 

(c) Note: Suspension action by the licensing agency appears 

to be discretionary. 

II. Suspension for 2 offenses within 12 months of Speeding 

>55 but <80 mph — none. §20-19(a). Note: Suspension 

action by the licensing agency is discretionary. 

 III. Suspension for driving >75 mph on a highway with a 

posted speed limit of <70 mph — none. Note: Suspension 

action by the licensing agency is discretionary. §20-19(b) 

IV. Suspension for driving >80 mph on a highway with a 

posted speed limit of 70 mph — none. §20-16(a)(10a) Note: 

Suspension action by the licensing agency appears to be 

discretionary. 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Required Suspension for operating a motor vehicle (1) >15 

mph over the speed limit and also driving >55 mph or (2) >80 

mph-30 days.287 20-16.1(a) Note: A longer license suspension 

is authorized if other provisions of law so provide. §20-

16.1(e) 

Eluding a Police Officer: A person attempting to elude a law 

enforcement officer commits a Class 1 misdemeanor if he/she 

drives either (1) >55 mph and >15 mph over the speed limit or 

(2) >80 mph. §20-141(j). The sanctions for this misdemeanor 

are an imprisonment term of 1 to 120 days and/or a fine (the 

amount is discretionary with the court). §15A-1340.23(b) and 

(c)(2) 

Commercial Motor Vehicle: A person who commits a 

violation in a commercial motor vehicle for which 

 

 points are assessed may be further assessed double the 

amount of any fine or penalty authorized by law. §20-16.01 

 

356A first offender may receive restricted driving privileges for health, education or family welfare purposes. However, for 

subsequent offenders, the suspension appears to be mandatory. §20-16.1(b)(1) 
191 SPEED 2005 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: I. Class 1 misdemeanor-Prearranged Speed Competition on a 

Highway. §20-141.3(a) 

II. Class 2 misdemeanor-Willful Speed Competition (not 

prearranged). §20-141.3(b) 

 Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): I. Prearranged Speed Competition on a Highway — 1 to 120 

days. §15A-1340.23(c)(2) 

II. Willful Speed Competition (not prearranged) — 1 to 60 

days. §15A-1340.23(c)(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): I. Prearranged Speed Competition on a Highway—The 

amount of the fine is discretionary with the court. §15A1340.23(b) 

II. Willful Speed Competition (not prearranged) — not more 

than $1,000. §15A-1340.23(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None 

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: I. Prearranged Speed Competition on a Highway—

Revocation. §20-141.3(d) 

II. Willful Speed Competition (not prearranged)—

Suspension. §20-141.3(e) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: I. Prearranged Speed Competition on a Highway — 3 years. 

§20-141.3(d) 

II. Willful Speed Competition (not prearranged) — not more 

than 1 year. §20-141.3(e) 

 Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License Withdrawal: I. Prearranged Speed Competition on a Highway-18 

months.288 §20-141.3(d) 

II. Willful Speed Competition (not prearranged) — none. 289

§20-141.3(e) 

Other: I. Driver Improvement Clinic §20-16(e) 

II. Seizure and forfeiture of the vehicle used in a pre-arranged 

speed contest. §20-141.3(g) 

 

357A new license may be issued after 18 months if the licensing agency is satisfied that the offender "has been of good 

behavior." The agency may place such conditions on the new license that it feels are appropriate for the remaining period 

of the revocation. §20-141.3(d) 
SPEED 2005 192

Reckless Driving 290: Class 2 misdemeanor. §20-140(a), (b) and (d) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): 1 to 60 days §15A-1340.23(c)(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. §15A-1340.23(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system. §20-16(a)(5) and (c) 

Suspension for 1 or more charges of reckless driving and 1 or 

more charges of speeding >55mph but <80 mph. §20-16(a)(9) 

Revocation for 2 reckless driving offenses within 12 months. 

§20-17(a)(6) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension via a point system — not more than 1 year. §§20-

16(a)(5) and (c) and 20-19(c) 

Revocation for 2 reckless driving offenses within 12 months 

— 1 year. §§20-17(a)(6) and 20-19(f) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension via a point system — none. §§20-16(a)(5) and (c) 

Note: Suspension action by the licensing agency appears to 

be discretionary. 

Revocation for 2 reckless driving offenses within 12 months 

— 1 year. §§20-17(a)(6) and 20-19(f) 

Other: I. Required Suspension for operating a motor vehicle (1) >15 

mph over the speed limit and also driving >55 mph or (2) >80 

mph and reckless driving — 60 days. §20-16.1(d) Note: This 

action appears to be mandatory. Note: A longer license 

suspension is authorized if other provisions of law so provide. 

§20-16.1(e) 

II. Driver Improvement Clinic. §20-16(e) 

 III. Commercial Motor Vehicle: A person who commits a 

violation in a commercial motor vehicle for which points are 

assessed may be further assessed double the amount of any 

fine or penalty authorized by law. §20-16.01 

 

358"Reckless driving" includes either (1) driving carelessly and heedlessly in willful or wanton disregard of the rights or 

safety of others or (2) driving without due caution and circumspection and at a speed or in a manner so as to endanger or be 

likely to endanger any person or property. §20-140(a) and (b) 
193 SPEED 2005 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators 291

: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

traffic violations"292 within a 3 year period or (2) commits 3 

such violations within a 3 year period. §20-17.4(d) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §20-17.4(d) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §20-17.4(d) 

 

359A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §20-4.01(3d) 360A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §20-4.01(41a)(a) 

and (b)
SPEED 2005 194

JURISDICTION: NORTH DAKOTA

General Reference: North Dakota Century Code Annotated 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person may drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is 

reasonable and prudent under the existing conditions having 

regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing.361 

§39-09-01 

Statutory Speed Limit: 70 mph (112.65 kph) on access-controlled interstate highways362 

§39-09-02(1)(h) 

See Other below. 

65 mph363 (104.61 kph) on 2-lane paved highways during the 

daytime, and on certain multi-lane interstate highways §39-

09-02(1)(g) 

55 mph364 (88.51 kph) on unpaved roads and on certain paved 

during the nighttime §39-09-02(1)(f) 

25 mph (40.23 kph) in a business or residential district or a 

public park §39-09-02(1)(e) 

20 mph (32.19 kph) in a school zone365 unless a lower speed 

limit has been posted §39-09-02(1)(b) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

may increase or decrease the above speed limits on the State 

highway system.366 §§39-09-04 and 39-09-07 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, a local 

government may increase (but not >55 mph 

or decrease the above speed limits on the highways under its 

jurisdiction. §39-09-03 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed 

as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic. 

§39-09-09(1) 

 II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available 

 

 

361A violation of this provision is considered "careless driving." §39-09-01 362The 70 mph speed limit applies on access-controlled, paved and divided multi-lane interstate highways. §39-09-02(1)(h) 363The 65 mph speed limit applies, if posted, (1) on paved two-lane highways within the time period of one-half hour before 

sunrise to one-half hour after sunset (if posted) and (2) on paved and divided multilane highways. §39-09-02(1)(g) 364Provided there is no posted speed limit or the time period is one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise, the 

speed limit is 55 mph speed limit (1) on gravel, dirt or loose surface highways and (2) on paved two-lane highways. §39-

09-02(1)(f) 

365This speed limit applies (1) when the school is in recess and (2) when children are going to and from school. §39-09-

02(1)(b) 

366This includes the establishment of different highway speed limits for different types of vehicles (certain types of trucks 

may be required to be driven at a slower speed than other types of motor vehicles), at different times of the day, for various 

weather conditions, or for other factors bearing on safe speeds. §39-09-04 
195 SPEED 2005 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) for traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or 

edge of the roadway. §39-10-08(2) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: I. The State may designate a lower speed limit for certain 

areas of a highway (e.g. construction zones). §39-09-02 

 II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State or 

a local government may establish minimum speed limits for 

the highways under their jurisdictions. §39-09-09(2) 

Other: I. The law establishes a speed limit of 20 mph (32.19 kph) in 

certain situations where a driver's view is obstructed. §39-09-

02(1)(a), (c) and (d) 

 II. Special speed limits may be established on a State 

highway. §39-09-02(2) 

 III. Based upon safety investigations, the State or a local 

government may establish safe maximum speed limits for 

bridges, causeways or viaducts. §39-09-04.1(2) and (3) 

IV. A person shall not operate a vehicle that is equipped with 

solid rubber tires >10 mph (>16.09 kph). §39-09-04.1(1) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: Speed Law violations are noncriminal Fee Dispositions. 

§§39-07-06, 39-06.1-02, 39-06.1-06(1), (3), (4) and (7), and 

39-06.1-09 

Other: A person who violates the Basic Speed Rule (Careless 

Driving) commits an infraction if he/she injures either a snow 

removal equipment operator or snow removal equipment 

while such are engaged in snow removal operations. §39-09-

01 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): None

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Violating Basic Speed Rule — $30. §§39-06.1-06(4) and 39-

09-01 
SPEED 2005 196

Violating Posted/Maximum Speed Limits — $5 to >$170367 

 Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

§§39-06.1-06(3), (7) and (11) and 39-09-02(2) 

Driving a Vehicle Equipped with Solid Rubber Tires >10 mph 

(>16.09 kph) — $20. §§39-06.1-06(2) and 39-06.1-09 

Exceeding the Maximum Safe Posted Speed Limit on Bridges, 

Causeways or Viaducts — $20. §§39-06.1-06(2) and 39-06.1-

09 

Driving Too Slowly or Violating Minimum Posted Speed 

Limit — $20. §§39-06.1-06(2) and 39-06.1-09 

Infraction — not more than $500. §12.1-32-01(7) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: N/A 

 Other: Subsequent infraction. A person who has been convicted of a 

subsequent infraction offense within 1 year may be sentenced 

as though convicted of a Class B misdemeanor. §12.1-32-

01(7). The sanctions for a Class B misdemeanor are an 

imprisonment term of not more than 30 days and/or a fine of 

not more than $1,000. §12.1-32-01(6) 

 

367I. General Fee Schedule: 6 to 10 mph over the speed limit — $5 plus $1 for each mph over 5 mph; 11 to 15 mph over 

the speed limit — $10 plus $1 for each mph over 10 mph; 16 to 20 mph over the speed limit — $15 plus $2 for each mph 

over 15 mph; 21 to 25 mph over the speed limit — $25 plus $3 for each mph over 20 mph; 26 to 35 mph over the speed 

limit — $40 plus $3 for each mph over 25 mph; 36 to 45 mph over the speed limit — $70 plus $3 for each mph over 35 

mph; and, ≥46 mph over the speed limit — $100 plus $5 for each mph over 45 mph. §39-06.1-06(3). II. Fee Schedule for 

Exceeding the Speed Limit on a Highway with Posted Speed Limits >55 mph (88.51 kph): 6 to 10 mph over the speed 

limit — $15 plus $2 for each mph over 5 mph over the limit; 11 to 15 mph over the speed limit — $25 plus $3 for each 

mph over 10 mph over the limit; 16 to 20 mph over the speed limit — $40 plus $3 for each mph over 15 mph over the limit; 

21 to 25 mph over the speed limit — $55 plus $3 for each mph over 20 mph over the limit; 26 to 35 mph — $70 plus $3 for 

each mph over 25 mph over the limit; 36 to 45 mph over the speed limit — $120 plus $5 for each mph over 35 mph over 

the limit; and ≥46 mph over the speed limit — $170 plus $5 for each mph over 45 mph over the limit. §39-06.1-06(7) 

III. Fee Schedule for Exceeding the Speed Limit on a Highway with Posted Speed Limits>70 mph: 6 to 10 mph over 

the limit — $40; 11 to 15 mph over thelimit — $60; 16 to 20 mph over the limit — $80; 21 to 25 mph over the limit — 

$100; 26 to 30 mph over the limit — $125; 31 to 35 mph over the limit — $150; and ≥36 mph over the limit — $150 plus 

$5 for each mph over 35 mph over the limit. §39-06.1-06(11). 

IV. Fee Schedule for Violating a Specially Posted Speed Limit in a Construction Zone: These fees apply unless a 

greater fee is applicable under other provisions of the law: 1 to 10 mph over the speed limit — $40; and, >10 mph over the 

speed limit — $40 plus $1 for each mph over 10 mph. §39-06.1-06(12). Note: The point schedule does not assign points 

for a violation of the provisions related to minimum speed (§§39-09-09(1) and 39-10-08(2)). 
197 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system.368 §39-06.1-10 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): ≥7 days. §39-06.1-10(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: Note: Suspensions via the point system appear to be 

mandatory. 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: N/A 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

 Exhibition of Driving and Drag Racing: Noncriminal Fee Disposition. §§39-08-03.1 and 39-07-06 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term: 

Fine ($ Range): For Drag Racing — $100. §39-08-03.1(1) 

For Exhibition Driving — $50. §39-08-03.1(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: Note: The law is not clear but the above fines may be 

mandatory. 

 

368Point System: I. An offender who accumulates 12 points is subject to a 7 day license suspension. If he/she accumulates 

≥13 points, his/her license is suspended for 7 days for each point over 11. §39-06.1-10(2). 

 II. The following points have been assigned for speed-related violations: reckless driving — 8 points; aggravated reckless 

driving-12 points; basic speed rule violation — 6 points; careless driving — 6 points; drag racing — 10 points; exhibition 

driving — 3 points; and, failure to use care-2 points. §39-06.1-10(3)(a)(10), (12), (13) and (29) and 39-06.1-10(3)(b)(1) 

and (2) 

III. The following points have been assigned for exceeding the speed limit: 11 to 15 mph over the speed limit — 1 point; 16 

to 20 mph over the speed limit — 3 points; 21 to 25 mph over the speed limit — 5 points; 26 to 35 mph over the speed limit 

— 9 points; 36 to 45 mph over the speed limit-12 points; and, ≥46 mph over the speed limit-15 points. §39-06.1-

10(3)(a)(30). 

 IV. The following points have been assigned for exceeding the speed limit on highways with a speed limit > 65 mph: 6 to 

10 mph over the speed limit — 1 point; 11 to 15 mph over the speed limit-2 points; 16 to 20 mph over the speed limit — 5 

points; 21 to 25 mph over the speed limit — 7 points; 26 to 30 mph over the speed limit — 10 points; 31 to 35 mph over the 

speed limit-12 points; and, ≥36 mph over the speed limit-15 points. §39-06.1-10(3)(a)(33) 

Persons Under 18 Years Old: A person under 18 years old who has accumulated >5 points must have his/her driving 

privileges canceled. Such a person is considered to never to have had a license and, after any period of suspension or 

revocation, he/she may apply for and be issued an instructional permit. Such individuals must complete a course of 

classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction, an internet course and 30 hours of driving with a parent of guardian, or a 

course at an approved commercial driver training school. In addition, he/she must satisfy all other requirements for 

licensing prior to being issued a driver’s license. §§14-10-01 and 39-06-01.1 

369I. "Drag racing" is defined as operating either (1) "two or more vehicles from a point side by side by accelerating rapidly 

in a competitive attempt to outdistance the other" or "(2) one or more vehicles over a common selected course from the 

same point to the same point for the purpose of comparing the relative speed or powers of acceleration of such vehicle of 

vehicles within a certain distance or time limit." §39-08-03.1(2)(a). II. "Exhibition driving" is defined as either (1) 

operating "a vehicle in a manner which disturbs the peace by creating or causing unnecessary engine noise, tire squeal, skid, 

or slide upon acceleration or braking" or (2) "operating or executing or attempting one or a series of unnecessarily abrupt 

turns." §39-08-03.1(2)(b) 
SPEED 2005 198

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension via a point system. §39-06.1-10 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: ≥7 days. §39-06.1-10(2) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: Note: Suspensions via the point system appear to be 

mandatory. 

Other: 

Reckless Driving: Class B misdemeanor. §39-08-03 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 30 days. §12.1-32-01(6) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. §12.1-32-01(6) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding 

(continued) 

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system. §39-06.1-10 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: ≥7 days. §39-06.1-10(2) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Note: Suspensions via the point system appear to be 

mandatory. 

Other: N/A 

Aggravated Reckless Driving302: Class A misdemeanor. §39-08-03 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 1 year. §12.1-32-01(5) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $2,000. §12.1-32-01(5) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system. §39-06.1 — 10 or Revocation

if there was "serious bodily injury303." §39-06-31(2) 

 

370"Aggravated reckless driving" is reckless driving which "inflicts injury upon the person of another." §39-08-03 
199 SPEED 2005 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspensions via point system-≥7 days. §39-06.1-10(2). 

Revocation — 1 year or for such period as recommended by 

the court §39-06-31 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspensions via the point system appear to be mandatory. 

Revocation — 1 year or for such period as recommended by 

the court 

Other: N/A 

 Care in Operating Vehicle372: noncriminal Disposition Fee. 

§§39-06.1-06(5) and 39-09-01.1 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

Fine ($ Range): $10 to $30. §39-06.1-06(5) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system. §39-06.1-10 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: ≥7 days. §39-06.1-10(2) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Note: Suspensions via the point system appear to be 

mandatory. 

Other: N/A 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators305: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

 371"Serious bodily injury" is defined as "bodily injury which creates a substantial risk of death or which causes serious 

permanent disfigurement, unconsciousness, extreme pain, or permanent loss or impairment of the function of any bodily 

member or organ, or a bone fracture." §12.1-01-04(29) 

372 A person violates this provision if he/she does not operate a vehicle “in a careful and prudent manner, having due regard 

to the traffic, surface, and width of the highway and other conditions then existing” or “drives any vehicle upon a highway 

in a manner to endanger the life, limb, or property of any person.” §39-09-01.1 

305A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §39-06.2-02(6) 
SPEED 2005 200

traffic violations306" within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 

such violations within a 3-year period. §39-06.2-10(5) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days. §39-06.2-10(5) 

 

306A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §39-06.2-

02(21)(a) and (b) 
201 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: OHIO

General Reference: Ohio Revised Code Annotated 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall operate a vehicle at a 

speed greater or less than is reasonable or proper, having due 

regard to the traffic, surface, and width of the street or 

highway and any other conditions. §4511.21(A) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 65 mph375on certain interstate and State freeways and rural 

highways §4511.21(B)(12) and (D) 

55 mph for vehicles weighing >8,000 lbs. empty weight and 

noncommercial busses on interstate and State freeways 

§4511.21(B)(10) and (11) 

55 mph on other freeways inside and outside of municipal 

corporations §4511.21(B)(8) and (9) and (D) 

55 mph on highways outside of municipal corporations except 

for certain freeways §4511.21(B)(5) and (D) 

50 mph (prima facie speed limit) on controlled-access 

highways and expressways within municipal corporations 

§4511.21(B)(4) and (C) 

50 mph (prima facie speed limit) on State routes within 

municipal corporations outside urban districts §4511.21(B)(6) 

and (C) 

35 mph (prima facie speed limit) on State routes and through 

highways376 §4511.21(B)(3) and (C) 

25 mph (prima facie speed limit) on municipal corporation 

streets377 §4511.21(B)(2) and (C) 

20 mph (prima facie speed limit) in school zones during 

recess or when children are going to or leaving school. 

§4511.21(B)(1)(a) and (C) 

15 mph (prima facie speed limit) on alleys within a municipal 

corporation §4511.21(B)(7) and (C) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: Based on geometric and traffic characteristics studies, the 

State or local governments378 may increase or 

 decrease the above speed limits on any highway. The new 

posted speed limit on such highway is the prima facie safe 

speed for that highway. §4511.21(H), (I) and (J) 

 

375This speed limit only applies to motor vehicles weighing ≤8,000 lbs. empty weight and commercial busses. 

§4511.21(B)(12) 

376This speed limit applies within municipal corporations outside business districts but does not include controlled-access 

highways and expressways within municipal corporations or highways outside of municipal corporations. §4511.21(B)(3) 

377Except on state routes outside business districts, through highways outside business districts, and alleys §4511.21(B)(2) 378Local governments must either request or obtain State approval for any speed limit changes on the streets or highways 

within their jurisdictions. §4511.21(H) and (J) 
SPEED 2005 202

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall operate a vehicle at such a slow speed as to 

impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of 

traffic. §4511.22(A) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §4511.25(B) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based upon engineering and traffic investigations, the State or 

local government may establish a minimum speed limit on a 

highway. However, no minimum speed limit shall be <30 

mph or >50 mph. §4511.22(B) 

Other: I. Based upon an investigation, the State may establish safe 

maximum speed limits for bridges or other elevated structures. 

§4511.23 

II. The owner of a private road or driveway located in a 

residential area containing ≥20 dwelling units may establish a 

legal posted speed limit on such road or driveway of not <25 

mph. §4511.211 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are misdemeanors. §4511.99(D) 

Other: 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): First offense (minor misdemeanor) — none; second offense

(within 1 year) (4th degree misdemeanor) — not more than 30 

days; subsequent offense (within 1 year) (third degree 

misdemeanor) — not more than 60 days. §§2929.21(A) and 

(B) and 4511.99(D) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): First offense (minor misdemeanor) — not more than $100; 

second offense (within 1 year) (4th degree misdemeanor) — 

not more than $250; subsequent offense (within 1 year) (third 

degree misdemeanor) — not more than $500. §§2929.21(C) 

and (D) and 4511.99(D) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: Remedial Driving Instruction. §4507.022(A). Note: This 

course must be completed before driving privileges can be 

restored. 

 Other: 
203 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system379 §4507.021(G), (K) and (L) 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a speed law 

Violation: 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): 6 months §4507.021(K) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: Suspension via point system — none. The offender may be 

placed on probation with conditions in lieu of suspension. 

§4507.021(N) 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: I. First offense of driving (1) >35 mph in a business district of 

a municipal corporation, (2) >55 mph on other portions, or (3) 

>35 mph in a school zone during either recess or when 

children are going either to or leaving the school — 4th degree 

misdemeanor. §4511.99(D)(2) See the sanctions for this 

misdemeanor above. 

II. If the appropriate signs are posted in a construction zone 

that indicate that increased sanctions are in effect and the 

offense occurs during hours of actual work w/in the zone, the 

fines for an offense committed in such zone are double the 

usual amount. §§4511.99(D)(3) and 4511.98 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Street Racing380: Misdemeanor. §§4511.251 and 4511.99(D) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense (minor misdemeanor) — none; second offense

(within 1 year) (4th degree misdemeanor) — not more than 30 

days; subsequent offense (within 1 year) (third degree 

misdemeanor) — not more than 60 days. §§2929.21(A) and 

(B) and 4511.99(D) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine ($ Range): First offense (minor misdemeanor) — not more than $100; 

second offense (within 1 year) (4th degree misdemeanor) — 

not more than $250; subsequent offense (within 1 year) 

 

379Point System: I. A person who accumulates not <12 points within a 2 year period from the date of the first conviction is 

subject to a 6 month license suspension. §4507.021(K). II. The following points have been assigned to speeding and 

speed-related offenses: street racing — 6 points; reckless driving — 4 points; general speed limit violation-2 points; first 

violation of exceeding either the 55 or 65 mph speed limits by driving >75 mph-2 points; second violation within 1 year of 

exceeding either the 55 or 65 mph speed limits by driving >75 mph — 1 point for each increment of 5 mph in excess of the 

posted speed limit excluding the first 5 mph over the limit; and third violation within 1 year of exceeding either the 55 or 65

mph speed limits by driving >75 mph-2 points for each increment of 5 mph in excess of the posted speed limit excluding 

the first mph over the limit. §4507.021(G)(9), (10), (12), (13), (14), (15) and (16) 

380"Street racing" is defined as "the operation of two or more vehicles from a point side by side at accelerating speeds in a 

competitive attempt to out-distance each other or the operation of one or more vehicles over a common selected course, 

from the same point to the same point, wherein timing is made of the participating vehicles involving competitive 

accelerations or speeds." §4511.251 
SPEED 2005 204

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

 (3rd Degree Misdemeanor) — Not more than $500. §§2929.21(C) and (D) and 4511.99(D) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension via a point system §4507.021(G), (K) and (L) 

Suspension via Court Action §4507.16(A)(1)(d) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Suspension via point system — 6 months §4507.021(K) 

Suspension via Court Action — 30 days to 3 years

§4507.16(A) 

Mandatory Action — -Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: Suspension via point system — none. The offender may be 

placed on probation with conditions in lieu of suspension. 

§4507.021(N) 

 Suspension via Court Action — 30 days. §4507.16(I) Note: 

A 30-day suspension appears to be mandatory. 

Street Racing: 

Other: Remedial Driving Instruction. §4507.022. Note: This course 

must be completed before driving privileges can be restored. 

Reckless Driving382: Misdemeanor. §§4511.20, 4511.201 and 4511.99(D) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense (minor misdemeanor) — none; second offense

(within 1 year) (4th degree misdemeanor) — not more than 30 

days; subsequent offense (within 1 year) (Third degree 

misdemeanor) — not more than 60 days. §§2929.21(A) and 

(B) and 4511.99(D) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense (minor misdemeanor) — not more than $100; 

second offense (within 1 year) (4th degree misdemeanor) — 

not more than $250; subsequent offense (within 1 year) (third 

degree misdemeanor) — not more than $500. §§2929.21(C) 

and (D) and 4511.99(D) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system. §4507.021(G), (K) and (L) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension via point system — 6 months. §4507.021(K) 

 

 381This section applies to the reckless operation of a vehicle on any public or private property other than streets or 

highways. 
205 SPEED 2005 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension via point system — none. The offender may be 

 placed on probation with conditions in lieu of suspension. 

§4507.021(N) 

Other: I. If the appropriate signs are posted in a construction 

zone that indicate that increased sanctions are in effect and the 

offense occurs during hours of actual work w/in the zone, the 

fines for an offense committed in such zone are double the 

usual amount. §§4511.99(D)(3) and 4511.98 

II. Remedial Driving Instruction. §4507.022. Note: This 

course must be completed before driving privileges can be 

restored. 

Reasonable Control383: minor misdemeanor. §§4511.202 and 4511.99(I) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term: 

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $100. §2929.21(D) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: 

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension via a point system. §4507.021(G), (K) and (L) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Suspension via point system — 6 months §4507.021(K) 

Mandatory Action — -Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: Suspension via point system — none. The offender may be 

placed on probation with conditions in lieu of suspension. 

§4507.021(N) 

Other: Remedial Driving Instruction. §4507.022. Note: This course 

must be completed before driving privileges can be restored. 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators:

384

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

traffic violations"385 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 

 3 such violations within a 3-year period. §4506.16(B)(5) and 

(6) 

 

382"No person shall operate a motor vehicle.... without being in reasonable control of the vehicle...." §4511.202 383A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §4506.01(E) 384A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §4506.01(W)(1) 

and (2) and 49 CFR §383.5 
SPEED 2005 206

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. 

§4506.16(B)(5) and (6) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days.

§4506.16(B)(5) and (6) 
 

207 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: OKLAHOMA

General Reference: Oklahoma Statutes Annotated and Oklahoma Administrative 

Code (OAC) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: A person shall drive a vehicle at a careful 

and prudent speed not greater than nor less than is reasonable 

and proper, having due regard to the traffic, surface and width 

of the highway (turnpike) and any other conditions then 

existing. Title 47, §11-801(A) and (D) and 11-1401(g) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 75 mph on the turnpike system and designated segments of the 

rural interstate system. Title 47, §11 — 

See Other below. 801(B)(1) 

70 mph on four-lane highways or "super two-lane" 

highways385 Title 47, §11-801(B)(2) 

65 mph on other highways Title 47, §11-801(B)(3) 

55 mph on a county road Title 47, §11-801(E)(1) 

45 mph in the State Capitol Park Area Title 47, §11-801(B)(6) 

35 mph in a State park or wildlife refuge Title 47, §11-

801(B)(7) 

25 mph in a school zone on any highway outside of a 

municipality However, the Oklahoma Department of 

Transportation, based on engineering and traffic 

investigations, may establish school zone speed limits >25 

mph at specific locations. Title 47, §11-801(B)(5) 

25 mph, or an established alternative speed limit, through 

State schools which are located on State owned land adjoining 

or outside the limits of a corporate city or town. Title 47, §11-

801(B)(6) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Transportation Commission may increase or decrease386 the 

above speed limits.387 Title 47, §§11-802 and 11-803(D) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: II. The State Turnpike Authority has the authority to establish 

maximum speeds for trucks, buses and automobiles using 

turnpikes. Title 47, §11-1401(i) 

III. Subject to certain limitations388 and based on 

 

385A "super two-lane highway" means a two-lane highway "with designated passing lanes, and consisting of paved 

shoulders not less than eight (8) feet in width." Title 47, §11-801(B)(2) 386On interstate highways within corporate limits, the speed limit cannot be decreased to less than 60 mph. Title 47, §11-

803(D) 

387Under separate provisions of law, the State Transportation Commission may establish maximum speeds for controlled 

access highways. Title 47, §11-801(C) 

388The speed limit inside an urban district can be increased to no more than 65 mph. The speed limit outside an urban 

district can be decreased to not less than 30 mph. Title 47, §11-803(A)(2) and (3) 
SPEED 2005 208

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

engineering and traffic investigations, local governments may 

increase or decrease the maximum speed limits.389 Title 47, 

§11-803 

IV. The State Transportation Commission and local 

governments have joint authority to alter speed limits within 

corporate limits on highways constructed with either State or 

Federal funds.390 Title 47, §11-803(D) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed 

as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic. 

Title 47, §11-804(a) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. Title 47, §11-301(B) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: I. The State Transportation Commission may establish 

minimum speeds for controlled access highways. Title 47, 

§11-801(C) 

II. The State Turnpike Authority has the authority to establish 

minimum speeds for trucks, buses and automobiles using 

turnpikes. Title 47, §11-1401(i) 

III. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Transportation Commission or local governments may, on 

highways under their respective jurisdictions, establish 

minimum speed limits on a highway. Title 47, §11-804(b) 

Other: I. No person shall drive a school bus >65 mph on turnpikes 

and the interstate highway system and >55 mph on paved twolane highways. Title 47, §11-801(B)(4) 

II. Based on an investigation, either the State or a local 

government may establish a safe maximum speed limit for a 

bridge or other elevated structure. Title 47, §11 — 

806(a) and (b) 

III. The State may post special speed limits on State or Federal 

highways under construction or repair. Title 47, §11-806(c) 

IV. No person shall drive a vehicle equipped with either solid 

rubber or metal tires >10 mph. Title 47, §11-801(B)(8) 

V. Not person shall drive a motor-driven cycle391 or motor 

scooter392 >35 mph. Title 47, §11-805 

 

389Under separate provisions law, county boards may establish speed limits > or <55 mph for county roads. Title 47, §11-

801(E)(1)(A) 

390However, a local government cannot establish a speed limit that is "substantially lower than those justified by the 

highway design, capacity, and traffic volume as determined by engineering studies." Title 47, §11-803(D) 

391A "motor-driven cycle" is a bicycle with a motor attached. Title 47, §11-805 392This limit applies to "motor scooters" with a wheel diameter of ≤12 inches as "measured from one side of the rim to the 

other." Title 47, §11-805 
 

209 SPEED 2005 

VI. Violations of the posted reduced speed limit in toll booth 

zones –fine doubled Title 47, §11-806.2 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are misdemeanors. Title 47, §§11-

102, 11-807(C), 11-1401(M) and 17-101(A) 

Other: 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): I. For statutory speed law violations (Title 47, §11-801 (B) 

and (E) except for excessive speed (≥35 mph) over the limit 

— none. For the exception — not more than 10 days to not 

more than 6 months, depending on whether it is a first, 

second or third offense. See Footnote No.9. Title 47, §11-

801(F) 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): II. For speed law violations (Title 47, §11-301(B) and 11-801 

to 11-806) — first offense — not more than 10 days; second

offense (within 1 year) — not more than 20 days; third or 

subsequent offense (within 1 year) — not 

 more than 6 months. Title 47, §§11-807(C) and §17-

101(B)(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): I. For statutory speed law violations393 (Title 47, §§11 — 

 801 to 11-807) — $10 to $205. Title 47, §§11-807(C) 

and 11-1401(M) 

II. For speed law violations (Title 47, §11-301(b), 11-309(3) 

and 11-801 to 11-806) — first and subsequent offense — $5 

to $500. Title 47, §17-101(B) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): The stated fines appear to be mandatory. 

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: Driver Improvement or Defensive Driving Course. Title 47, 

§6-206.1 and OAC 595:10-7-10. Note: An offender 

 

394For a violation of the Statutory Speed Limits, Title 47, §11-801(B) and (E), a person is subject to the following sanctions: 

(1) 1 to 10 mph over the limit-a $10 fine; (2) 11 to 15 mph over the limit-a $20 fine; (3) 16 to 20 mph over the limit-a $35; 

(4) 21 to 25 mph over the limit-a $75 fine; (5) 26 to 30 mph over the limit-a $135 fine; (6) 31to 35 mph over the limit-a 

$155 fine; and, (7) 36 mph or more over the limit-a $205 fine and/or the following imprisonment sanctions: first offense — 

not more than 10 days; second offense (within 1 year) — not more than 20 days; third or subsequent offense (within 1 year) 

— not more than 6 months. Title 47 §11-801(F). These fine sanctions may be mandatory given the wording in Title 47, 

§11-801(F). 
SPEED 2005 210

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

 can reduce the number points on his/her driving record by 

taking this course. OAC 595:10-7-10 

Other: Violators of Title 47 §11-1401(H) (speeding on a turnpike) are 

guilty of a misdemeanor and are subject to a fine of $10 — 

$200 and/or jail for 5 to 30 days. Title 47 §11-1401(M) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension.394 Title 47, §6-206(B) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Not more than 1 year. Title 47, §6-208 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: Limited.

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: N/A 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Note: State law does not provide for the offense of racing on 

the highway. However, the State code does authorize local 

governments to enact ordinances or promulgate regulations 

that prohibit such conduct. Title 11, §22-117(A) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): 

Mandatory Minimum Term: 

Fine ($ Range): 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: 

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: 

Length of Term of 

Licensing Withdrawal: 

 

394Point System: The licensing agency usually takes suspension action based upon a point system. I. Under this system, 

an offender's license is suspended when he/she accumulates 10 or more points. Suspension periods are determined by the 

number of prior suspensions as follows: a first suspension is for 1 month; a second suspension is for 3 months; a third 

suspension is for 6 months (mandatory); and a 4th or subsequent suspension is for 12 months (mandatory). OAC 595:10-7-

6. II. The following points have been assigned to speeding and speed-related violations: reckless driving — 4 points; 

speeding >25 mph over the speed limit — 3 points; careless driving (Note: This is not listed as an offense under State 

statutory law.) — 2 points; speeding-2 points; contest racing on the highway (Note: This is not listed as an offense under 

State statutory law) — 2 points; speeding in excess of the posted maximum speed limit-2 points; driving less than the 

minimum posted speed limit — 2 points; speeding in a school zone-2 points; radar checked speed violation-2 points; 

airplane checked speed violation — 2 points; Vascar — 2 points; negligent driving (Note: This is not listed as an offense 

under State statutory law.) — 1 point; operating a motor vehicle at a speed greater than or less than is reasonable or proper 

— 1 point; and impeding traffic and <40 mph — 1 point. OAC 595:10-7-2 
 

211 SPEED 2005 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

 (continued) 

Mandatory Action — -Minimum 

 Length of License Withdrawal: 

 Other: 

Reckless Driving: Misdemeanor. Title 47, §§11-102, 11-901(A) and 17- 

Sanction: 101(A) 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — 5 days to 90 days; subsequent offense — 10 

days to 6 months. Title 47, §11-901(B) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $250 to $500; subsequent offense — $300 to 

$1,000 Title 47, §11-901(B) 

 

 Mandatory Minimum Fine: First offense — $100; subsequent offense — $150 

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension. Title 47, §6-206(B) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Not more than 1 year. Title 47, §6-208 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Limited.

Other: Driver Improvement or Defensive Driving Course. Title 47, 

§6-206.1 and OAC 595:10-7 — 10 Note: An offender can 

reduce the number points on his/her driving record by taking 

this course. OAC 595:10-7-10 

 An additional penalty of $15 is assessed to benefit the Public 

Safety Vehicle Revolving Fund. Title 20 
SPEED 2005 212

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators395: §1313.5 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

traffic violations"396 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 

such violations within a 3-year period. Title 47, §6-205.2(F) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. Title 47, §6-

205.2(F) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. Title 47, §6-

205.2(F) 

 

395A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. Title 47, §§1-

107.1, 1-107.2 and 1-107.3 

396A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. Title 47, §6-

205.2(F)(1) and (2) 
 

213 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: OREGON

This chapter summarizes Oregon State statutes related to 

speed. 

General Reference: Oregon Revised Statutes and Oregon Administrative Rules 

(OAR) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: A person commits an offense if he/she drives a vehicle at a 

speed greater than is reasonable and prudent, having due 

regard to all of the following: the traffic; the surface and width 

of the highway; the hazard at intersections; weather; visibility; 

and, other conditions then existing.397 §811.100(1) 

Statutory Speed Limit: It is prima facie evidence of a violation of the basic speed rule 

to exceed the following speed limits (§811.100(2)(c)): 

See Other below. A) 65 mph on rural interstate highways §§811.105(2)(f), 

811.112(1) and 811.123(1)(f) 

B) 55 mph on other highways §811.105(2)(g) and 

811.123(1)(g) 

C) 25 mph in a public park §811.105(2)(d) and 811.123(1)(d) 

D) 25 mph in a residential district if the district is not located 

within a city or urban growth boundary that is a county with a 

population >100,000 and the highway is neither an arterial nor 

a collector highway §§811.105(2)(e) and 811.123(1)(e) 

E) 25 mph on the ocean shore §811.120(1)(b) 

F) 20 mph in a school zone398 §811.105(2)(c) and 

811.123(1)(c) 

G) 20 mph in a business district §811.105(2)(b) and 

811.123(1)(b) 

H) 15 mph in an alley §811.105(2)(a) and 811.123(1)(a) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Department of Transportation may increase or decrease the 

above prima facie speed limits on highways outside an urban 

area. §810.180(7)399

II. The State Department of Transportation may "supersede" 

the maximum statutory speed limits 

(§811.123) for highways in an urban area where such speed 

limits are not reasonable or safe. §810.180(10) 

 

397The basic speed rule does not authorize speed limits in excess of the maximum speed limits. §811.108 398This speed limit only applies when "children are present" or a flashing light indicates that children may be arriving or 

leaving a school. §§811.105(2)(c)(A) and (B) and 811.123(1)(c)(A) and (B) "[C]hildren are present at any time and on any 

day when children are in a place where they are or can reasonably be expected to be visible to a person operating a motor 

vehicle that is passing a school ground or a school crosswalk." §811.124 

399Under other provisions, the State Department of Transportation may designate a safe speed on the highways by 

regulation. This authority may be delegated to local governments for low volume highways or roads which are not hard 

surfaced. §810.180(8)(a) 
SPEED 2005 214

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall impede the normal and reasonable 

 movement of traffic. §811.130(1) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §811.315(1) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: N/A 

Other: I. A person shall not operate certain trucks or busses at a speed 

>55 mph.400 §811.115 

II. A person cannot operate a “motor-assisted scooter” on a 

highway with a speed limit >25 mph unless such scooter is 

being operated in a bicycle lane or is crossing the highway. 

§814.518 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law offense are traffic violations. §§801.557 and 

811.100 

Other: 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): None. §153.018(1) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Basic Speed Rule and Exceeding the Maximum/Posted Speed 

Limits or Maximum Speed limits for Certain Trucks or Busses

— Class A to D traffic violations — Varying fines from not 

more than $75 to not more than $600.401 §§153.018(2), 

811.100(3), 811.109 and 811.115 

Impeding Traffic and Motor Scooter violations — Class D 

traffic violations — not more than $75. §§ 153.018(2), 

811.130(5) and 814.518 

Driving at Less Than the Normal Speed of Traffic and Not Driving in the Right Lane — Class B Traffic 

 

400This speed limit applies to trucks weighing ≥8,000 lbs, school buses, school activity vehicles, worker transport buses, 

buses used to transport children on a church function and vehicles used by a non-profit organization to transport persons. 

§811.115 

401I. For exceeding the maximum or posted speed limit on highways with a speed limit of <65 mph, the following fine 

sanctions are imposed: 1 to 10 mph over the speed limit (Class D Traffic Violation) — not more than $75; 11 to 20 mph 

over the speed limit (Class C Traffic Violation) — not more than $150; 21 to 30 mph over the speed limit (Class B Traffic 

Violation) — not more than $300; and, >30 mph over the speed limit (Class A Traffic Violation) — not more than $600. 

§§153.018(2) and 811.109(1). II. For exceeding the maximum or posted speed limit on highways with a speed limit of >65 

mph, the following fine sanctions are imposed: exceeding 65 but <75 mph (Class C Traffic Violation) — not more than 

$150; exceeding 75 mph but <85 mph (Class B Traffic Violation) — not more than $300; and, exceeding 85 mph (Class A 

Traffic Violation) — not more than $600. §§153.018(2) and 811.109(2) 
 

215 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law 

Violation: 

(continued) Violations — not more than $300. §§ 153.018(2) and 

 11.315(3) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: A defensive driving course may be required. §809.270(1) 

 Other: School and Work Zones: If the traffic violation occurred in 

either a school or work zone, the minimum fine before 

assessments is 80 percent of the maximum fine established 

for the violation. §§153.131, 811.230 and 811.235 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via the Driver Improvement Program.402 

§809.480 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): 30 days under Step Four of the Driver Improvement Program. 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: 30 days under Step Four of the Driver Improvement Program. 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: There is also a Unitary Assessment of $35 and a County 

Assessment of between $5 and $59. §§137.290(1)(d) and 

137.309 

Speed Racing on Highway: Class A Traffic Violation. §§801.557 and 811.125(1) and (2) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): None. §153.018(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: 

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $600. §153.018(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 

 

402Driver Improvement Program: Step One: An offender is mailed an "advisory letter" if he/she commits 2 traffic 

offenses within 12 months. This letter informs the offender of his/her driving problems. Step Two: If (1) an offender has 

committed 1 or 2 traffic offenses within 6 or 12 months respectively of date of the advisory letter or (2) he/she has 

committed 3 traffic offenses within 18 months, he/she is mailed a "warning letter." This letter notifies the offender of the 

possible consequences any more traffic offenses are committed. Step Three: If (1) offender has committed 1 or 2 traffic 

offenses within 6 or 12 months respectively of date of the warning letter or (2) he/she has committed 4 traffic offenses 

within 18 months, he/she is subject to a driver improvement interview. During this interview, the licensing agency 

prescribes a program for driver improvement, places the offender on probation for 1 year and place restrictions on the 

offender's driving privileges. Step Four: If an offender commits a traffic offense during the 1-year probationary period, 

he/she is subject to a 30-day suspension. Note: This suspension appears to be mandatory. OAR 735-72-0030 and 735-72-

0130 
SPEED 2005 216

Type of Action: Suspension via the Driver Improvement Program. 

Length of Term of 

 

Licensing Withdrawal: 30 days under Step Four of the Driver Improvement Program. 

Mandatory Action — -Minimum 

Length of License 

 Withdrawal: 30 days under Step Four of the Driver Improvement Program. 

 I. An offender may be required to complete a defensive 

driving course. §809.270(1) 

II. See School and Work Zones. 

III. There is also a Unitary Assessment of $35 and a County 

Assessment of between $5 and $59. §§137.290(1)(d) and 

137.309 

Other: I. A court may impose a suspension of driving privileges for 

up to 30 days if a person exceeds a speed limit by more than 

30 miles per hour and the person has received at least one 

prior speeding conviction within 12 months of the date of the 

current offense. §811.109(4) 

II. If a person drives 100 miles per hour or greater, a court 

shall impose the following:{in lieu of a punishment otherwise 

imposed} — a fine of $1,000; and a suspension of driving 

privileges for not less than 30 days nor more than 90 days. 

 §811.109(5) 

Reckless Driving403: Class A misdemeanor. §811.140(1) and (3) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 1 year. §161.615(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $5,000. §161.635(1)(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension. §809.410(6) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — 90 days; second offense (within 5 years) — 1 

year; subsequent offense (within 5 years) — 3 years. 

§809.420(1) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — 90 days; second offense (within 5 years) — 1 

 year; subsequent offense (within 5 years) — 3 years. 

§§809.410(6) and 809.420(1) 

 

403The same sanctions, criminal and administrative, that apply for "reckless driving" also apply to the offense of "reckless 

endangerment of highway workers." This offense consists of driving a motor vehicle in a "work zone in such a manner as 

to endanger persons or property." §§809.410(36) and 811.231 
 

217 SPEED 2005 

Other: I. An offender may be required to complete a defensive 

driving course. §809.270(1) 

II. Incarceration and Medical Costs: A city or county may 

seek reimbursement from an offender for the costs 

 Reckless Driving of medical care and incarceration. §§169.150 and 

 169.151 

III. School and Work Zones404: If the offense occurred in 

either a school or work zone, the minimum fine is 20 percent

of the maximum fine for the offense. §§811.230 and 211.235 

IV. There is also a Unitary Assessment of $65 and a County 

Assessment of between $5 and $59. §§137.290(1)(b) and 

137.309 

Careless Driving405: Class B Traffic Violation.406 §§801.557 and 811.135(1) and 

(2) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): None. §153.018(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $300. §153.018(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None 

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via the Driver Improvement Program. 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 30 days under Step Four of the Driver Improvement Program. 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 30 days under Step Four of the Driver Improvement Program. 

 Other: I. An offender may be required to complete a defensive 

 driving course. §809.270(1) 

II. See School and Work Zones on page 204. 

III. There is also a Unitary Assessment of $35 and a County 

Assessment of between $5 and $59. §§137.290(1)(d) and 

137.309 

 

404 A school zone speed limit of 20 mph applies on roads adjacent to a school between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. 

on school days, or when yellow lights are flashing. At crosswalks marked as school zones, the limits apply either when 

yellow lights are flashing or when children are present — meaning that children are in the crosswalk, waiting on the curb or 

shoulder, or that a traffic patrol member is present to assist children (§811.124). 405A person commits this offense if he/she operates a vehicle "in a manner that endangers or would be likely to endanger 

any person or property." §811.135(1) 

406If the offense contributed to an accident, it is a Class A Traffic Violation. §§801.550 and 811.135(2). The sanction for 

this offense is a fine of not more than $600. §153.018(1) and (2) 
SPEED 2005 218

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators407: 

Grounds for Suspension: A person's CDL is suspended, if while driving a CMV, he/she 

either (1) commits 2 "serious traffic violations"408 within a 3-

year period or (2) commits 3 such violations within a 3-year 

period. §809.410(29) and (30) 

Period of Suspension: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §809.410(29) 

and (30) 

Period of Mandatory Suspension: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §809.410(29) 

and (30) 

 

 

407A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and has a gross vehicle 

weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials. 

§801.2089(1)(b), (c) and (d) 

408A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §801.477(1), (2) 

and (3) 
 

219 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: PENNSYLVANIA

General Reference: Pennsylvania Statutes Annotated 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at a 

speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the 

conditions and having regard to the actual and potential 

hazards then existing. Title 75, §3361 

Statutory Speed Limit: 65 mph on certain interstate highways and freeways409 Title 

75, 

See Other below. §3362(a)(1.1) 

55 mph on other highways Title 75, §3362(a)(2) 

35 mph in urban districts Title 75, §3362(a)(1) 

25 mph in residential districts Title 75, §3365(a)(1.2) 

15 mph in a school zone Title 75, §3365(b) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State or a 

local government may increase or decrease the above speed 

limits on the highways under their jurisdictions.410 Such speed 

limits "may vary for different weather conditions and other 

factors bearing on safe speeds." Title 75, §3363. Note: 

Pennsylvania law does not specifically state whether different 

highway speed limits may be established for different types of 

vehicles or for different times of the day. 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed 

as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic, 

and, if so driving on a 2-lane road, must pull off the road onto 

the berm or shoulder to let other traffic pass. Title 75, 

§3364(a) and (b) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway411. Title 75, §3301(b) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State or a 

local government may establish minimum 

 speed limits on the highways under their jurisdictions. Title 

75, §3364(c). Note: via signs, specified lanes may be 

designated for specified types of traffic (e.g. slow-moving 

vehicles). Title 75, §3309(3) 

 

409Likewise, the maximum speed limit on the Pennsylvania Turnpike is 55 mph unless a maximum speed limit of 65 mph 

has been posted. Title 75, §6610(a) 

410However, a maximum speed limit so established cannot exceed (1) the statutory 65 mph speed limit for certain interstate 

highways and freeways or (2) 55 mph for other highways. Title 75, §3363 

411On limited access highways where at least two lanes of traffic are moving in the same direction, all vehicles shall remain 

in the right hand lane except when passing or overtaking another vehicle, traveling at a speed greater than the traffic flow, 

moving to the left to merge, or preparing to make a left turn. Title 75, , §3313(d)(1) 
SPEED 2005 220

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Other: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State or 

a local government may establish maximum safe speed limits 

for bridges and elevated structures under their jurisdictions. 

Title 75, §3365(a) 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State or 

a local government may establish a maximum safe speed for 

certain heavy vehicles when traveling upon certain hazardous 

grades. Title 75, §3365(c) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are Summary offenses. Title 75, 

§§3362(c), 3365(d) and 6502(a) 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, Etc.): None

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Except for the Offenses Indicted — $25412 Title 75, §6502(a) 

Exceeding the Maximum or Posted Maximum Speed Limit-I. 

$42.50 for exceeding 65 mph.413 II. $35 for other speeding 

violations. Title 75, §3362(c)(i) and (ii) 

Exceeding the Maximum Speed Limit for Bridges, School 

Zones and Hazardous Grades — $35. Title 75, §3365(d) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

 

 Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: For either a first or second accumulation of 6 points on his/her 

driving record, an offender shall either be required to attend 

Drive Improvement School or undergo a driver license 

examination. Title 75, §§1538(a) and 1549(a) 

 Other: Surcharges: For exceeding the maximum or posted 

maximum speed limit and other speed violations, an offender 

is assessed mandatory surcharges from $30 to $50.

414 Title 

75, §6506(a)(1) and (4) 

 Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system.415 Title 75, §§1535, 

 

412This fine applies to violations of the Basic Speed Rule, the Minimum Speed Rule, the Posted Minimum Speed Limits, 

and Turnpike Regulations. 

413Plus an additional $2 for every mph in excess of 5 mph over the speed limit. Title 75, §§3362(c)(2) and 3365(d) 414A surcharge of $30 is assessed for exceeding the speed limit by either 6 to 10 mph or 11 to 15 mph. A surcharge of $40 

is assessed for exceeding the speed limit by 16 to 25 mph. A surcharge of $50 is assessed for exceeding the speed limit by 

≥26 mph. Title 75, §6506(a)(4)(i), (ii) and (iii) 

415Point System: I. When an offender's point accumulation is reduced below 6 and he/she again accumulates 6 points for 

the second time, he/she is subject to a suspension of ≤15 days. Title 75, §1538(b)(iii). II. When an offender's point 

accumulation is reduced below 6 and he/she again accumulates 6 points for the third time, he/she is subject to a suspension 

of ≤30 days. Title 75, §1538(c). III. When an offender has accumulated 11 points or more, he/she is subject to license 
 

221 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

 1538 and 1539 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Not more than 1 year. Title 75, §1539 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None. An offender is eligible for an occupational limited 

license. Title 75, §1553 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Work Zones: For a violation of either the Basic Speed Rule 

(Title 75, §3361) or Maximum or Posted Maximum Speed 

Limits (Title 75, §3362) in a construction or maintenance area 

manned by workers acting in their official capacities and the 

zone is posted, the fines are double the usual amount. Title 75, 

§3326(c) and (c.1). Violators are also subject to a 15 day 

suspension. Title 75, §1535(e) 

 Excessive Speeding: An offender who has been 

convicted of exceeding the maximum or posted maximum 

speed limit by ≥31 mph is subject to one or more of the 

following sanctions: (1) driver improvement school; (2) 

license examination or (3) license suspension for ≤15 days. 

Title 75, §1538(d) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Summary Offense. Title 75, §3367(b) and (d) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — none; subsequent offense — not more than 6 

months. Title 75, §6503 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $200; Title 75, §3367(d) Subsequent offense 

— $200 to $1,000. Title 75, §6503 

 

suspension as follows: first suspension — 5 days suspension for each point; second suspension — 10 days suspension for 

each point; third suspension-15 days suspension for each point; subsequent suspension — 1 year. Title 75, §1539(a) and 

(b). IV. The following points have been assigned to speeding and speed-related violations: basic speed rule violation-2 

points; careless driving — 3 points; exceeding the maximum or posted maximum speed limit by 6 to 10 mph-2 points; 

exceeding the maximum or posted maximum speed limit by 11 to 15 mph — 3 points; exceeding the maximum or posted 

maximum speed limit by 16 to 25 mph — 4 points; exceeding the maximum or posted maximum speed limit by 26 to 30 

mph — 5 points; and, exceeding the maximum or posted maximum speed limit by 31 mph — 5 points. Title 75, §1535(a). 

Note: The point schedule does not include points for driving less than the normal speed of traffic and not driving in the 

right lane. 

Drivers Under 18 Years Old: A driver <18 years old is subject to the following additional license suspensions if he/she 

either (1) drives ≥26 mph over the posted speed limit or (2) accumulates 6 or more points before reaching 18 years old. A 

first suspension is for 90 days and any subsequent suspension is for 120 days. Suspensions “shall be imposed consecutively 

to each other and to any other suspension.” In addition, a suspension “shall be considered a subsequent suspension even if 

it is imposed contemporaneously with a first suspension” under this section. Title 75, §1538(e) 

Junior Drivers: Under separate provisions of law, “junior drivers” (a licensee 16 or 17 yrs old) are subject to a suspension 

of their driving privileges until they are 18 years old or for a period not to exceed 90 days if they are convicted of any

violation of Title 75. This licensing action is in addition to any other licensing action. Title 75, §1503(c)(3) 
SPEED 2005 222

Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None Administrative Licensing Action: See Junior Drivers.

 Type of Licensing Action: 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension. Title 75, §1532(b) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: 6 months. Title 75, §1532(b) 

 Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: 6 months. Title 75, §1532(b) Note: An offender is not 

eligible for occupational driving privileges. Title 75, 

§1553(d)(11) 

Other: Surcharge: An offender is assessed a mandatory surcharge of 

$30. Title 75, §6505(a)(1) 

Reckless Driving: Summary Offense. Title 75, §3736(a) and (b) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

Fine ($ Range): $200. Title 75, §3736(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: See Junior Drivers. 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension. Title 75, §1532(b) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 6 months. Title 75, §1532(b) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 6 months. Title 75, §1532(b) Note: An offender is not 

eligible for occupational driving privileges. Title 75, 

§1553(d)(11) 

 Other: Surcharge: An offender is assessed a mandatory 

 surcharge of $30. Title 75, §6505(a)(1) 

 Work Zones: For a reckless driving offense committed in a 

construction or maintenance area manned by workers acting in 

their official capacity and the zone is posted, the fines are 

double the usual amount. Title 75, §3326(c) 

Careless Driving417: Summary Offense. Title 75, §3714 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 

416"Careless driving" is defined as driving "a vehicle in careless disregard for the safety or persons or property." Title 75, 

§3714 
 

223 SPEED 2005 

 of Imprisonment: 

Fine ($ Range): $25. Title 75, §6502 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system. Title 75, §§1535, 1538 and 

1539 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: 55 days to 1 year. Title 75, §1539 

 Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. An offender is eligible for an occupational limited 

license. Title 75, §1553 

Other: Surcharge: An offender is assessed a mandatory surcharge of 

$30. Title 75, §6505(a)(1) 

Work Zones: For a careless driving offense committed in a 

posted construction or maintenance area manned by workers 

acting in their official capacities, the fines are double the usual 

amount. Title 75, §3326(c) 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators418: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

traffic violations419" within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 

such violations within a 3-year period. Title 75, §1611(g) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. Title 75, 

§1611(g) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. Title 75, 

§1611(g) 

 

417A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials that 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance State regulations. Title 75, §1603 418A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. Title 75, §1603 

and 49 CFR §383.5 
SPEED 2005 224

JURISDICTION: RHODE ISLAND

General Reference: General Laws of Rhode Island and Code of Rhode Island 

Rules (CRIR) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is 

reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having 

regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing.419 

§§31-14 — 1 and 31-14 — 3 

Statutory Speed Limit: Speed in excess of the following limits is considered prima 

facie evidence that such speed was not reasonable or prudent 

§31-14-2(a) 

See Other below. 

50 mph during the daytime420 in all other location not noted 

below §31-14-2(a)(2) 

45 mph during the nighttime in other locations not noted 

below §31-14-2(a)(3) 

25 mph in a business or residential district §31-14-2(a)(1) 

20 mph in a school zone421 §31-14-2(a)(4) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Traffic Commission may increase or decrease the prima facie

speed limits. §§31-14 — 4 and 31-14-4.1. Note: Rhode 

Island law does not specifically state whether different 

highway speed limits may be established for different types of 

vehicles, for various weather conditions or for different times 

of the day. 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, a local 

government may decrease the prima facie speed limits on 

streets in a business or residential district under its 

jurisdiction. §31-14-5 

III. A local government may increase the prima facie speed 

limits on through highways and other highways with limited 

intersections.422 §31-14-6 

IV. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, a local 

government may decrease the prima facie speed 

limits423 on streets outside a business or residential district 

under its jurisdiction §31-14-7 

V. Based on an investigation, the State Traffic 

 

419Under other provisions of law, a person is also required to exercise due care to avoid colliding with pedestrians or human 

powered vehicles. §31-18-8 

420"Daytime means from a half hour before sunrise to half hour after sunset. Nighttime means at any other hour." §31-14-

2(b) 

421This speed limit only applies within 300 feet of school grounds when the school is open and warning signs are posted. 

§31-14-2(a)(4) and (5). 

422However, a local government cannot establish a daytime speed limit >50 mph or a nighttime limit >45 mph. §31-14-6 423However, a speed limit of <35 mph cannot be established. §31-14-7 
 

225 SPEED 2005

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) Commission may establish safe maximum speed limits for 

bridges and other elevated structures. §31-14-12(b) 

Note: The State Traffic Commission must approve speed 

limit alterations by local governments on State highways. 

§31-14-8 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed 

as to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of 

traffic.§31-14-9(a) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §31-15-2 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: N/A 

Other: I. No person shall drive a vehicle equipped with solid rubber 

or cushion tires >10 mph. §31-14-11 

II. The State or a local government may establish "temporary 

traffic control zones" on highways that are undergoing 

construction or maintenance. §31-14-12.1 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are Civil violations.424 §31-27-13(a) 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): None. §§31-27-13(a) and 31-41.1-6(c) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): As per the Violation Fine Schedule425 §31-41.1-4(a) and (b) 

 

424The motor vehicle code (Title 31) provides that moving violations are civil infractions unless the law makes a particular 

offense a misdemeanor or a felony or unless the offense is punishable by a fine of more than $500 or by imprisonment. 

§31-27-13(a) 

425Violation Fine Schedule: The following administrative fines are assessed for certain speed law violations. I. Driving 

below the minimum speed (i.e., impeding traffic) — $75; violating the basic speed rule — $75; exceeding the posted speed 

limit on bridges and structures — $75; driving in the right lane when not driving at the normal speed of traffic — $75; and, 

violating the law regarding due care by drivers — $75. II. For a first offense of speeding 1 to 10 mph in excess of the 

posted speed limit-a fine of $75. For a second offense (within 12 months) where the speed is up to an excess of 10 mph 

over the posted speed-a fine of $10 per mph over the speed limit. For a third or subsequent offense (within 12 months) 

where the speed is up to an excess of 10 mph over the posted speed-a fine of $15 per mph over the speed limit. III. For a 

first offense of speeding ≥11 mph in excess of the posted speed limit-a mandatory fine of $10 per mph over the speed limit. 

For a second offense (within 12 months) of speeding ≥11 mph in excess of the posted speed limit-a mandatory fine of $15 

per mph over the speed limit. For a third or subsequent offense (within 12 months) of speeding ≥11 mph in excess of the 

posted speed limit-a mandatory fine of $20 per mph over the speed limit. §31-41.1-4(a) and (b) 
SPEED 2005 226

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): As per the Violation Fine Schedule §31-41.1-4(a) and (b) 

 Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: Rehabilitative Driving Course: The court may order an 

offender to attend a Rehabilitative Driving Course. §31-41.1-

6(d) 

Other: (continued) School Bus Operators: Privileges to operate a school bus are 

suspended for up to 5 years if the operator is convicted of a 

criminal "motor vehicle driving offense" while driving any

vehicle. §31-10.3-31(j) 

Work Zones: Fines, penalties and costs are double for a speed 

violation for exceeding the posted limit in a posted “temporary 

traffic control zone” (construction or maintenance zones). 

§31-14-12.1(b) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension or Revocation via a point system. 426 §31-11-7(a) 

(1) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): I. Point system: Suspension — not more than 1 year. §31-

11-7(a)(2) Revocation — Indeterminate. Note: The law 

does not provide for a general period of maximum revocation. 

II. Under separate statutory provisions, the court may suspend 

a person's license as follows: Speeds ≤10 mph over the speed 

limit — Suspension for not more than 30 days §31-41.1-

4(b)(i); Speeds >11 mph over the speed limit — Suspension

for not more than 60 days. §31-41.1-4(b)(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: I. Point system: Suspension — 10 or 30 days. Revocation

— A revocation, if required, appears to be mandatory. 

However, the law provides for no maximum period of such 

mandatory revocation. 

II. License suspensions via the court are not mandatory. §31-

41.1 — 4 (b)(1) and (2) 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: EMS Special Assessment: In addition to any fine, an 

offender must be assessed $1. §31-27-18. Note: These 

 funds are deposited into the general State fund and do not 

appear to be obligated for EMS functions. 

 

426Point System: Under §31-11-7(a)(1), the licensing agency has the authority to take licensing action (usually suspension) 

if an offender has committed numerous traffic law violations. The State has promulgated a regulation establishing a point 

system to assist it in exercising this authority. I. If an offender accumulates 8 points, his/her license will be suspended. A 

first suspension is for a mandatory minimum period of 10 days; a subsequent suspension is for a mandatory minimum 

period of 30 days. According to §31-11-7, a suspension cannot be >1 year. If offenders accumulate 12 points, their license 

is revoked. The period of license revocation is either indeterminate or determined according the offense committed. II. 

The following points have been assigned for speeding and speed-related violations: three (3) reckless driving offenses 

within 1 year-12 points; driving as to endanger (death or injury) — 12 points;>20 mph over the speed limit — 8 points; ≤20 

mph over the speed limit — 1 to 5 points; and reckless or negligent driving — 8 points. CRIR 01-100-011 
 

227 SPEED 2005

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Reckless Driving or Drag Racing427: First offense — misdemeanor; subsequent offense — Felony. 

§31-27-4(a) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — not more than 1 year §31-27-13(c); 

subsequent offense — 1 to 5 years. §31-27-14 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — not more than $500 §31-27-13(c); subsequent 

offense — not more than $5,000. §31-27-14 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Point system — suspension or Revocation. §31-11-7 

 Three (3) Reckless Driving Offenses (within 1 year) — 

Revocation.428 §31-11-6(7) 

 Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Point system — not more than 1 year. §31-11 — 7 

Revocation — Indeterminate. Note: The law does not 

provide for a general period of maximum revocation. 

Three (3) Reckless Driving Offenses (within 1 year) — 3 

years. §31-11-6(7) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License Withdrawal: Point system — suspension — 10 or 30 days.Revocation — 

A revocation, if required, appears to be mandatory. However, 

the law provides for no maximum period of such mandatory 

revocation. 

Three (3) Reckless Driving Offenses (within 1 year) — 3 

years.10 §31-11-6(7) 

 Other: I. If revocation is mandatory, the registrations of any vehicles 

owned by the offender shall be suspended. §31 — 

 32-4 

II. EMS Special Assessment: In addition to any fine, an 

offender must be assessed $1. §31-27-18. Note: These funds 

are deposited into the general State fund and do not appear to 

be obligated for EMS functions. 

III. School Bus Operators: Privileges to operate a school bus 

are suspended for up to 5 yrs if the operator is convicted of a 

criminal "motor vehicle driving offense" while driving any

vehicle. §31-10.3-31(j) 

Driving as to Endanger429: Felony. §§11-1-2, 31-27 — 1 and 31-27-1.1 

 

427Reckless driving includes drag racing and operating a vehicle in an attempt to elude or flee from a police officer. §31-27-

4(a) 

428Note: The law may only provide for this licensing action where the convictions are for reckless driving and not for drag 

racing. 

429Death or injury as a result of vehicle operation in reckless disregard of the safety of others. §§31-27-1(a) and 31-27-

1.1(a) 
SPEED 2005 228

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Death-related Offense — not more than 10 years. §31-27-

1(b) 

Injury-related Offense — not more than 5 years. §31-27-

1.1(c) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): None

Mandatory Minimum Fine: N/A 

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Revocation §31-11-6 

 Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Death-related — 3 years §31-11-6(1); Injury-related-18 

months. §31-11-6(4) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Death-related — 3 years §31-11-6(1); Injury-related-18 

months. §31-11-6(4) 

Other: I. If revocation is mandatory, the registrations of any vehicles 

owned by the offender shall be suspended §31-32-4(a) 

II. EMS Special Assessment: In addition to any fine, an 

offender must be assessed $1. §31-27-18. Note: These funds 

are deposited into the general State fund and, therefore, do not 

appear to be obligated for EMS functions. 

III. School Bus Operators: Privileges to operate a school bus 

are suspended for up to 5 yrs if the operator is convicted of a 

criminal "motor vehicle driving offense" while driving any

vehicle. §31-10.3-31(j) 

Aggressive Driving430: Civil Violation. §§31-27-13 (b) and 31-27.1 — 1 et seq. 

Important: “The lesser included offenses which, in total may 

constitute aggressive driving, may be prosecuted separately.” 

§31-27.1-4(b) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

 

430“Aggressive Driving” is defined as operating a motor vehicle in violation of any speed law (§31-14 — 1 et seq.) and a 

violation of two or more of the following traffic law provisions: (1) obedience to traffic control devices (§31-13-4); (2) 

overtaking on the right (§31-15-5); (3) driving within a traffic lane (§31-15-1); (4) following too closely - — interval 

between vehicles (§31-15-12); (5) yielding right of way (§§31-15-12.1, 31-17-1, 31-17-2, 31-17-4, 31-17-6, 31-17 — 7 and 

31-17-8); (6) entering the roadway (§§31-15-14, 31-17 — 3 and 31-17-5); (7) use of turn signals (§§31-6-5, 31-16-6, 31-16 

— 8 and 31-16-9); (8) relating to school buses, special stops, stop signs and yield signs (§31-20 — 1 et seq.); and, (9) use 

of emergency break-down lane for travel (§31-15-16). §31-27.1-3 
 

229 SPEED 2005

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding:

(continued) 

Imprisonment (Term): None 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

Fine ($ Range): $260 to $500. §31-27.1-4(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: 

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): First offense — Suspension.431 §31-27.1-4(a) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — A minimum of 30 days. §31-27.1-4 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. Licensing action is discretionary. §31-27.1-4 

Other: I. First offenders may be required to attend an educational 

program that is designed to improve the safety and habits of 

drivers. §31-27.1-44 

II. EMS Special Assessment: In addition to any fine, an 

offender must be assessed $1. §31-27-18. Note: These funds 

are deposited into the general State fund and do not appear to 

be obligated for EMS functions 

III. School Bus Operators: Privileges to operate a school bus 

are suspended for up to 5 yrs if the operator is convicted of a 

criminal "motor vehicle driving offense" while driving any

vehicle. §31-10.3-31(j). 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators432: 

Grounds for Suspension: A person’s CDL is suspended if while operating a CMV 

he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious traffic violations"433

within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 such violations within 

a 3-year period. §31-10.3-31(a)(6) 

Period of Suspension: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days. §31-10.3-31(a)(6) 

Period of Mandatory Suspension: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

 serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §31-10.3- 

 31(a)(6)

 

432The law does not appear to provide for either a licensing or a traffic education sanction for a subsequent aggressive 

driving offense. 

432A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §31-10.3-3(9) 433A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §31-10.3-3(25)(i0 

and (ii) 
SPEED 2005 230

JURISDICTION: SOUTH CAROLINA

General Reference: Code of Laws of South Carolina Annotated 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is 

reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having 

regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing. §56-

5-1520(A) and (F) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 70 mph on the interstate highway system and other 

freeways434 §56-5-1520(B)(1) 

See Other below. 

60 mph on multilane divided primary highways §56-5-

1520(B)(2) 

55 mph in other locations or on other sections of highways 

§56-5-1520(B)(3) 

40 mph on unpaved roads §56-5-1520(B)(3) 

30 mph in an urban district435 §56-5-1520(C) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Department of Transportation may increase or decrease the 

above speed limits on the State highway system including the 

extension of such system into an urban district.436 §§56-5-

1520(E) and 56-5-1530 

II. Except as noted in III, based on engineering and traffic 

investigations, local governments within their respective 

jurisdictions may increase or decease the above speed 

limits.437 §§56-5-1520(E) and 56-5-1540(a) 

III. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, a local 

government may establish a maximum speed limit of <30 mph 

in an urban district. However, this authority does not apply to 

highways within the State highway system. §56-5-1520(D) 

 

435Historical Note: In 1997, the South Carolina Legislature made a request to the State Department of Transportation that 

the agency increase the speed limit on Interstate Highway 85 in Spartanburg County "between mile point 68.8 and mile 

point 77.4" to 65 mph. Concurrent Resolution, H.B. 4073 adopted in 1997 

436"Urban district” is defined to mean “the territory contiguous to and including any street which is built up with structures 

devoted to business, industry, or dwelling houses situated at intervals of less than one hundred feet for a distance of a 

quarter of a mile or more.” §56-5-1520(C) 

436This includes the establishment of different highway speed limits (1) for different types of vehicles (e.g., persons who 

operate certain types of trucks may be required to drive these vehicles at a slower speed than those who operate other types 

of motor vehicles), (2) at different times of the day, (3) for various weather conditions, or (4) for other factors bearing on 

safe speeds. §56-5-1530(A) 

437A speed limit cannot be established at >70 mph. §56-5-1540(a)(2). In addition, outside of an urban district, a speed limit 

cannot be established at <35 mph. §56-5-1540(a)(3). Note: The State Department of Transportation must approve any 

alteration of a speed limit on State highways or extensions thereof. §56-5-1540(d) 
231 SPEED 2005 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation:(continued) 

IV. Based upon an investigation, the State Department of 

Transportation may establish a safe maximum speed limit for 

any bridge or elevated structure. §56-5-1570(d) 

V. The governing boards of State institutions may establish 

speed limits on the streets, drives and alleys under their 

jurisdiction. §56-21-10(1) 

VI. The State Department of Mental Health may promulgate 

regulations "governing and controlling" the roads and streets 

within areas of the State Hospital and Midlands Center. §56-

21-70. Such regulations could include the establishment of 

speed limits in these areas. 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed 

as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic. 

§56-5-1560(a) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §56-5-1810(b) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Department of Transportation or local governments may 

establish minimum speed limits on their respective streets and 

highways. §56-5-1560(b) 

Other: I. A person may not operate a manufactured, modular or 

mobile home >55 mph. §56-5-1520(B)(4) 

II. A person may not operate a manufactured, modular or 

mobile home >10 mph below the maximum speed limit when 

such limit is >45 mph. §56-5-1520(B)(4) 

III. A person may not operate a moped >25 mph. §56-5-1555 

IV. No person shall tow a house trailer >45 mph. §56-5-

1570(a) 

V. No person shall drive a vehicle that is equipped with solid 

rubber or cushion tires >10 mph. §56-5-1570(b) 

VI. No person shall drive a public school bus >45 mph on 

highways with posted speed limits ≤55 mph. A special 

variance may be issued which allows a person to drive such a 

bus >45 mph on highways with posted speed limits >55 mph. 

However, in no event, shall a person drive a public school bus 

>55 mph. §59-67-515 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: Except as Noted, speed law violations are misdemeanors.438 

§§56-5-730, 56-5-1520(G), 56-5-1535(a), 56-5-6190 and 56-

21-60 

 

439Important: The law does not appear to make driving a public school bus in excess of the speed limitations established via 

§59-67-515 a criminal offense (e.g., a misdemeanor). In addition, there appears to be no licensing action associated with 

such a violation. 
SPEED 2005 232

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Fine: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, Etc.): I. Violating Statutory Maximum Speed Limits439: first offense 

— >25 mph over the speed limit — not more than 30 days

§56-5-1520(G); 

 Subsequent offense — not more than 30 days. §56-5-6190 

II. Violating the Maximum Speed Limit for Mopeds: Not 

more than 30 days. §56-5-1555 

III. Violating Traffic Regulations on State Hospital and 

Midlands Center Grounds: Not more than 15 days. §56-21-

100 

IV. All Other speed law-related violations: Not more than 30 

days.440 §§56-5-6190 and 56-21-60 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Amount ($ Range): I. Violating Statutory Maximum Speed Limits: first offense 

— $15 to $200441 §56-5-1520(G); subsequent offense — not

more than $100. §56-5-6190 

II. Violating Maximum Speed Limit for Mopeds: Not more 

than $200. §56-5-1555 

III. Violating Traffic Regulations on State Hospital and 

Midlands Center Grounds: $2 to $50. (per the fine schedule 

published by the Department). §56-21-100 

IV. All Other speed law-related violations: Not more than 

$100. §§56-5-6190 and 56-21-60 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

 Other Penalties: 

 

 Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

 Traffic School: An offender who completes a defensive driving course shall 

have 4 points deducted from his/her driving record. §56-1-

770 

 Other: N/A 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 

439This refers to a violation of the "statutory" speed limits established under §56-5-1520(b). However, these limits may be 

altered (i.e., increased or decreased) by State or local authorities. §§56-5-1520(e), 56-5-1530 and 56-5-1540. 440Title 57 contains no general penalty provision that applies to violations of its provisions. Likewise, the Criminal Code, 

Title 16, does not appear to contain a general penalty provision that would apply to violations of State law where no other 

sanctions have been specified. 

441The fines for first offense speed limit violations are as follows: driving ≤10 mph above the speed limit, a fine of $15 to 

$25; driving >10 mph but <15 mph above the speed limit, a fine of $25 to $50; driving >15 mph but <25 mph above the 

speed limit, a fine of $50 to $75; and, driving >25 mph above the speed limit, a fine of $75 to $200. §56-5-1520(G) Note: 

The law is not clear but these sanctions for a first offense may also apply to violations of the altered posted speed limits. 
233 SPEED 2005 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system443. §§56-1-720, 56-1-740 and 

56-1-750 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): 3 to 6 months. §56-1-740 (A) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: Suspension periods under the point system appear to be 

mandatory. §56-1-740 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Highway Work Zone: A person who exceeds the specially 

posted speed limit in a highway work zone is subject to a jail 

sentence of not more than 30 days and/or a fine of not less 

than $75 nor more than $200. §56-5-1535(a) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Misdemeanor. §§56-5-730, 56-5-1590 and 56-5-6190 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Two to 6 months. §56-5-1620 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): $200 to $600. §56-5-1620 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Revocation. §56-5-1620 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: 1 year. §56-5-1620 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: 1 year. §56-5-1620. This licensing action appears to be 

mandatory. 

Other: The owner of a car permissively used in violation of §56-5-

1590 is subject to a $100 fine, 30 days in jail and a 3-month 

license and registration suspension. §56-5-1620 

Reckless Driving: Misdemeanor. §§56-5-730, 56-5-2920 and 56-5-6190 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 30 days. §56-5-2920 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): $25 to $200. §56-5-2920 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): First offense — suspension via the point system; subsequent 

offense (within 5 years) — suspension. §56-5-2920 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — 3 to 6 months via the point system; 

subsequent offense (within 5 years) — 3 months. §56-5-2920 
SPEED 2005 234

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — suspension periods under the point system 

appear to be mandatory §56-1-740 (A); subsequent offense

(within 5 years) — 3 months. §56-5-2920 

Other: An offender who completes a defensive driving course shall 

have 4 points deducted from his/her driving record. §56-1-

770 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators:

444 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

traffic violations"445 within a 3-year period or 

 

 (2) commits 3 such violations within a 3-year period. §56-1-

2110(F) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days. §56-1-2110(F) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §56-1-

2110(F) 

 

442A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §56-1-2030(4) 443A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §56-1-

2030(22)(a) and (b) 
235 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: SOUTH DAKOTA

General Reference: South Dakota Codified Laws 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: It is unlawful for a person to drive a motor vehicle at a speed 

greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions 

then existing. §32-25-3 

Statutory Speed Limit: 75 mph on interstate highways §32-25-4 

 70 mph on divided four-lane highways in rural areas 

See Other below. 65 mph on other streets or highways §32-25-1.1 

55 mph on township roads §32-25-9.2 

25 mph on urban streets that do not have posted speed limits 

§32-25-12 

15 mph in a school zone444 §32-25-14 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. The State Transportation Commission may establish posted 

speed limits that are less than the maximum ones for highways 

under its jurisdiction. §§32-25 — 7 and 32-25-10 

II. Local governments may (1) establish "speed zones" upon 

the streets or highways under their jurisdictions or (2) regulate 

speed on public parks. §§32-14-3, 32-14-4, 32-25-9.1 and 32-

25-16. Note: The authority granted under these provisions 

could be used to increase as well as to decrease the speed 

limits on township roads that have a statutory speed limit of 

55 mph. (§32-25-9.2). 

III. Based upon an investigation, the State Transportation 

Commission may establish a safe maximum speed for any 

public bridge, causeway or viaduct. §§32-25-18 and 32-25-19 

IV. A county road district445 may establish speed limits on the 

roads under its jurisdiction. §§31-12A-21(6) and 32-25-9.1 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall operate a motor vehicle at such a slow 

speed as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of 

traffic. §32-25-5.1 

II. It is unlawful to operate a motor vehicle at <40 mph on an 

interstate highway. §32-25-5 

III. A person driving a slow-moving vehicle shall drive as 

closely as possible to the right-hand edge or curb of a 

highway. §32-26-1 

 

444This speed limit only applies when the school is in recess or while children are going to or leaving a school. §32-25-14 447Landowners who reside outside a populated municipality may “incorporate” a “road district” for the purposes of 

constructing or maintaining roads. §31-12A — 1 et seq. 
SPEED 2005 236

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering 

(continued) and traffic investigations, the State Transportation 

Commission may establish a minimum speed limit on a 

highway. §32-25-5.2 

Other: I. The State Transportation Commission may promulgate 

regulations establishing the maximum speed for any motor 

vehicle, trailer, or wagon.446 §32-25-6 

 II. No person shall tow a manufactured home or mobile home 

with a width >102 inches >55 mph on an interstate highway or 

>45 mph on any other highway. §32-25-6.1 

III. No person shall drive a vehicle that is equipped with solid 

rubber or cushion tires >10 mph. §32-25-6.2 

IV. When a driver's view is obstructed at a railway crossing or 

an intersection, the maximum lawful speed is 15 mph. §§32-

25-13 and 32-25-15 

V. The State Transportation Commission may establish 

"limited" speed zones for portions of State highways that are 

undergoing maintenance during the hours work is actually 

performed. §32-25-19.1 

VI. Certain overweight vehicles which are hauling agricultural 

products may be driven on the highways not >50 mph. §32-

22-42.2 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are Class 2 misdemeanors. §§32-22-

42.2, 32-25-1.1 et seq. and 32-26-1 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): Not more than 30 days.447 §22-6-2 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Not more than $200. §22-6-2 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: 

Other: The fines are double for exceeding the "limited" posted speed 

limit in a construction zone. However, the maximum fine 

cannot be >$200. §32-25-19.1 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 

446I. Such regulations apply to the following types of vehicles: (1) any motor vehicle, trailer, or wagon including the load 

weighing >10,000 lbs.; (2) any motor vehicle, trailer or wagon having a gross weight >8,000 lbs. on one axle; and (3) any 

motor vehicle, trailer or wagon having a gross load >600 lbs. per inch width of tire as defined in the statute. §32-25-6 

449If they are financially able, offenders may be required to pay for the cost of their confinement in a county jail. §24-11-45 
237 SPEED 2005 

 (Susp/Rev): Note: There appears to be no specific licensing action for 

speed law violations. §§32-12-49 and 32-12-49.1. See the 

Comment under point system. 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): N/A 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: N/A 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: For persons operating commercial motor vehicles who commit 

a 4th or subsequent excessive speeding offenses under §§32-

25-1.1 to 32-25-17, the court may cancel the vehicles 

"compensation plates" for 1 year.448 §32-25-22 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Class 2 misdemeanor. §§32-25-23 and 32-25-25 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 30 days. §22-6-2 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $200. §22-6-2 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension via a point system.449 §32-12-49 et seq. 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: 

 Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License Withdrawal: N/A 

Other: N/A 

Reckless Driving: Class 1 misdemeanor. §32-24-1 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 1 year. §22-6-2 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. §22-6-2 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

 

448Certain commercial motor vehicle operators must obtain special license plates ("compensation plates") before they can 

operate such vehicles on the State's streets or highways. §§32 — 9 — 6 and 32-9-7 

449Point System: I. An offender's license is subject to suspension if he/she accumulates either 15 points within 12 months 

or 22 points within 24 months. §32-12-49.2 II. The following points have been assigned to speed-related violations: 

reckless driving — 8 points; eluding a police officer — 6 points; drag racing — 6 points; and, other moving offenses-2 

points. The law specifically states that "other moving offenses" does not include "speeding offenses." (Comment: Since 

the term "speeding offense" is not defined, it is unclear whether such term includes all offenses related to vehicle speed or 

whether such term only means speed in excess of the speed limit.) §32-12-49.1. III. The following licensing actions are 

based on a person’s driving record over the last 48 months: first suspension — 60 days; second suspension — 6 months; 

subsequent suspensions — 1 year. §32-12-49.3 Licensing action is not mandatory. The licensing agency may issue 

restricted driving privileges for the purpose of allowing a person to engage in employment or to attend school. §32-12-49.4 

Note: The State legislature repealed the law that established the offense of "drag racing." §32-25-24 repealed by §2 of ch. 

260, Laws of 1991. However, it did not amend §32-12-49.1 to reflect this change. 
SPEED 2005 238

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system. §32-12-49 et seq. 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: N/A 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: N/A 

Other: N/A 

Careless Driving452: Class 2 misdemeanor. §32-24-8 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 30 days. §22-6-2 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $200. §22-6-2 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system. §32-12-49 set seq. 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: N/A 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: N/A 

Other: N/A 

Exhibition Driving453: Class 2 misdemeanor. §32-24-9 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 30 days. §22-6-2 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $200. §22-6-2 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system. §32-12-49 et seq. 

Length of Term of License 

 

450"Careless driving" is defined as operating a vehicle "carelessly and without due caution, at a speed or in a manner so as to 

endanger any person or property, not amounting to reckless driving." §32-24-8 

451"Exhibition driving" is defined as operating a vehicle "in such a manner that creates or causes unnecessary engine noise, 

tire squeal, skid or slide upon acceleration or stopping; that simulates a temporary race; or causes the vehicle to 

unnecessarily turn abruptly or sway." §32-24-9 
239 SPEED 2005 

 Withdrawal Action: N/A 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: N/A 

Other: N/A 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators454: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

traffic violations455" within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 

such violations within a 3-year period. §§32-12A-40 and 32-

12A-41 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days. §§32-12A-40 and 32-12A-41 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §§32-12A-40 

and 32-12A-41 

 

452A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §32-12A-1 453A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph, reckless driving or careless driving. 

§32-12A-1(a), (b) and (c) 
SPEED 2005 240

JURISDICTION: TENNESSEE

General Reference: Tennessee Code Annotated and Rules and Regulations of the 

State of Tennessee (RRST) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: Note: This State does not have a law 

establishing a basic speed rule. 

Statutory Speed Limit: 70 mph for on interstate highways §55-8-152(d) 

 65 mph on all other highways or roads454 §55-8-152(a) and (d) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. The State Department of Transportation is authorized to 

lower the above speed limits on the State system of roads and 

highways. §55-8-152(g)(1)(A) 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Department of Transportation may lower the speed limits in 

business, urban or residential districts. §55-8-153(a) 

III. Local governments may establish speed limits including 

lowering the maximum speed limits on roads and streets under 

their jurisdictions. §§55-8-152(d)(1)(A), (d)(2) and (f)(1)(C) 

and 55-8-153(d) 

IV. The State Department of Transportation may establish a 

safe maximum speed limit for any bridge or elevated 

structure. §55-8-156(b) 

V. Based on engineering investigations, a local government 

may establish special speed limits adjacent to schools. This 

limit cannot be <15 mph.455 §55-8-152(d)(1)(A) 

VI. The State Department of Transportation may establish 

special speed limits at school entrances and exits and from 

controlled-access highways. §55-8-152(d)(1)(C) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall operate a motor vehicle at such a slow 

speed as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of 

traffic. §55-8-154(a) 

II. On interstate and four-lane controlled-access highways, it 

is unlawful for a person to operate a motor vehicle in the left 

lane at a speed <55 mph. §55-8-152(c) 

 III. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand 

 curb or edge of the roadway. §55-8-115(b) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Department of Transportation or a local government may 

establish a minimum speed limit for a highway. §55-8-154(b). 

Note: Via signs, slower moving traffic may be directed to use 

designated lanes. §55-8-123(3) 

 

454Controlled-access highways with four lanes that are designated as State system highways or interstate highway. §55-8-

152(c). Only the State Department of Transportation can establish speed limits on these highways. §55-8-152(h). 

455Where such special speed limits do not exist, it is a prima facie evidence of reckless driving to operate a vehicle >15 mph 

when passing a school during (1) recess when warning flashers are in operation, or (2) 90 minutes before or after the 

opening or closing of a school. §55-8-152(d)(1)(B) 
241 SPEED 2005 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Other: I. No person shall operate a vehicle with solid rubber or 

cushion tires >10 mph. §55-8-156(a) 

II. When transporting pupils, no person shall operate a school 

bus either (1) > the posted speed limit or (2) >35 mph on 

unpaved roadways. §49-6-2110(b) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: Except as Noted Under Miscellaneous Sanctions, speed law 

violations are Class C misdemeanors. §§49-6-2113, 55-8-

152(g)(2), 55-8-154, 55-8-156 and 55-10-301(a) 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): Not more than 30 days. §40-35-111(e)(3) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Not more than $50. §40-35-111(e)(3) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: An offender may be required to attend a driver education 

course.456 §55-10-301(b)(1) 

 Other: N/A 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action: (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system.457 §55-50-505(a)(2) and 

 

456This course may be imposed in addition to or in lieu of any other sanction. §55-10-301(b)(1) 457Point System: I. An offender who for the first time accumulates 12 points within 12 months is subject to either a 6-

month license suspension or a driver improvement program. After the offender completes this program, he/she is placed on 

administrative probation for 12 months. Note: A first offender is a driver who has not had his/her license suspended and 

who has not taken the driver improvement program within the previous 5 years. II. An offender who for the second or 

subsequent time accumulates 12 points within 12 months is subject to a 6-month license suspension. However, if the 

offender has completed driver improvement program within the previous 5 years, the suspension is for 12 months. Such 

persons may be required to attend a driver improvement program. However, participation in this program is not in lieu of 

license suspension. III. The following points have been assigned for speeding and speed-related offenses: speeding 

violations where the vehicle's speed was not noted on the citations — 3 points; exceeding the speed limit 1 through 5 mph 

— 1 point; exceeding the speed limit 6 through 15 mph — 3 points; exceeding the speed limit 16 through 25 mph — 4 

points; exceeding the speed limit 26 through 35 mph — 5 points; exceeding the speed limit 36 through 45 mph — 6 points; 

exceeding the speed limit by 46 or more mph — 8 points; reckless driving — 6 points; driving less the posted minimum 

speed limit — 3 points; careless or negligent driving (Note: This is a municipal ordinance violation) — 4 points; and, 

reckless endangerment by vehicle — 8 points. IV. The following points have been assigned for speeding in a construction 

zone: speeding violations where the vehicle's speed was not noted on the citations — 3 points; exceeding the speed limit 1 

through 5 mph-2 points; exceeding the speed limit 6 through 15 mph — 6 points; exceeding the speed limit 16 through 35 

mph — 7 points; and, exceeding the speed limit by 36 or more mph — 8 points. V. The following points have been 

assigned for speeding in a commercial vehicle: speeding violations where the vehicle's speed was not noted on the citations 

— 4 points; exceeding the speed limit 1 through 5 mph-2 points; exceeding the speed limit 6 through 14 mph — 4 points; 

exceeding the speed limit 15 through 25 mph — 6 points; exceeding the speed limit 26 through 35 mph — 7 points; and, 

exceeding the speed limit by 36 or more mph — 8 points. VI. The following points have been assigned for speeding in a 

construction zone by a commercial vehicle: speeding violations where the vehicle's speed was not noted on the citations — 

4 points; exceeding the speed limit 1 through 5 mph-2 points; and, exceeding the speed limit 6 through 14 mph — 5 points. 

RRST Ch. 1340-1-4-.03 and .04 
SPEED 2005 242

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

 RRST Ch.1340-1 — 4 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): 6 months (12 months for certain subsequent offenders).458 

RRST Ch. 

 1340-1-4-.04(7)(c) and (8)(b) and (c) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: 6 or 12 months. Action is limited to certain subsequent 

offenders.459 RRST Ch. 1340-1-4-.04(8)(b) and (c) 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Construction Zones: A person who violates a speed limit in 

a construction zone when workers are present commits a Class 

B misdemeanor. However, the offender is only subject to a 

fine sanction of $250 to $500. §§55-8-152(f)(2) and 55-8-

153(e). Note: The minimum fine appears to be mandatory. 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Drag Racing460: Class B misdemeanor. §55-10-502 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 6 months. §40-35-111(e)(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $500. §40-35-111(e)(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Revocation. §55-10-503(a)(1) and (b) 

Length of Term of 

 

458Point System Suspensions: Offenders are subject to a 6 month license suspension under two conditions: (1) they have 

accumulated 12 points within 12 months for the first time and they do not participate in the driver improvement program; 

or, (2) they have accumulated 12 points for the second time and have in lieu of a suspension, within the past 5 years, 

participated in such a program. Subsequent offenders are subject to a 12 month license suspension if they have, within the 

past 5 years, participated in and been subject to both a driver improvement program in lieu of a suspension and a license 

suspension under the point system. RRST Ch. 1340-1-4-.04 

459Offenders who have accumulated 12 points within 12 months for the first time and who are subject to a 6 month license 

suspension because they do not participate in a driver improvement program are eligible for restricted driving privileges. 

RRST Ch. 1340-1-4-.04(7)(g). Under "extreme circumstances" such an offender may be placed on administrative 

probation in lieu of a suspension. RRST Ch. 1340-1-4-.04(7)(h) 

460"Drag racing" is defined as the "use of any motor vehicle for the purpose of ascertaining the maximum speed obtainable 

by the vehicle; the use of any motor vehicle for the purpose of ascertaining the highest obtainable speed of the vehicle 

within a certain distance or within a certain time limit; the use of any one (1) or more motor vehicles for the purpose of 

comparing the relative speeds of such vehicle or vehicles, or for comparing the relative speeds of such vehicle or vehicles 

within a certain distance or within a certain time limit; the use of one (1) or more motor vehicles in an attempt to out-gain, 

outdistance or arrive at a given destination simultaneous with or prior to that of any other motor vehicle; the use of any 

motor vehicle for the purpose of the accepting of, or the carrying out of any challenge, made orally, or in writing, or 

otherwise, made or received with reference to the performance abilities of one (1) or more motor vehicles." §55-10-501(1) 
243 SPEED 2005 

 Licensing Withdrawal: First offense — 1 year §55-10-503(a)(1); second offense

(within 10 years) — Permanent Revocation. §55-10-503(b) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: First offense — none. Note: An offender is eligible for 

restricted driving privileges §55-10-503(a)(2); second offense

(within 10 years) — Permanent Revocation. §55-10-503(b) 

Other: An offender may be required to attend a driver education 

course. §55-10-301(b)(1) 

Reckless Driving: Class B misdemeanor. §55-10-205(a) and (b) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 6 months. §40-35-111(e)(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $500. §40-35-111(e)(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: Suspension via a point system. Revocation — second 

offense (within 12 months) — Revocation. §55-50-501(a)(6) 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Second offense (within 12 months) — Revocation. §55-50-

501(a)(6) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Second offense (within 12 months) — 1 year. §55-50-

502(f)(3) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Second offense (within 12 months) — 1 year.461 §55-50-502(f)(3) 

Other: An offender may be required to attend a driver education 

course.3

 §55-10-301(b)(1) 

 

461However, if this is the first time an offender's license has been revoked, he/she may apply for a new one after only 6 

months. §55-50-502(e)(4) 
SPEED 2005 244

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators462: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

traffic violations"463 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 

such violations within a 3-year period. §55-50-405(a)(5) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days. §55-50-405(a)(5) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §55-50-

405(a)(5) 

 

462A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport more than 15 persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §55-50-102(12) 463A "serious traffic violation" includes excessive speeding as defined by the U.S. Secretary of Transportation (i.e., 

exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph) or reckless driving. §55-50-102(46)(A) and (B) and 49 CFR §383.5 
245 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: TEXAS

General Reference: Citations are to Vernon's Texas Transportation Code (Tran. 

Code). 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is 

reasonable and prudent under the circumstances then existing 

or under the conditions and having regard to actual and 

potential hazards. Tran. Code §545.351(a) and (b)(1)464

Statutory Speed Limit: Operating a vehicle in excess of the following speed limits is 

prima facie evidence that such speed is not reasonable and 

prudent and is unlawful. Tran. Code §545.352(a) 

 A) 80 mph in daytime for vehicles other than truck tractors, 

trailers, semi-trailer and trucks above 26,000 pounds on 

Interstate Highway 10 or Interstate Highway 20 in Crockett, 

Culberson, Hudspeth, Jeff Davis, Kerr, Kimble, Pecos, 

Reeves, Sutton, or Ward Counties. §454.352(h-1) 

 B) 75 mph during the daytime in counties with a population 

density of less than 15 persons per square mile. 

§454.352(h)(1) and (2) 

C) 70 mph during the daytime on "numbered" highways and 

farm/ranch-to-market roads outside an urban district465 Tran. 

Code §545.352(b)(2) 

D) 65 mph during the nighttime on "numbered" highways and 

farm/ranch-to-market roads outside an urban district Tran. 

Code §545.352(b)(2) 

E) 60 mph during the daytime on highways that are not 

"numbered" and that are outside of an urban district Tran. 

Code §545.352(b)(3) 

F) 55 mph during the nighttime on highways that are not 

"numbered" and that are outside of an urban district Tran. 

Code§545.352(b)(3) 

G) 30 mph in an urban district Tran. Code §545.352(b)(1) 

(H) 15 mph in an alley Tran. Code §545.352(b)(1) 

(I) 15 mph on a beach Tran. Code §545.352(b)(5) 

(J) 15 mph on a road adjacent to a public beach if declared by 

the Commissioners Court of the county. 

 

464An operator shall reduce speed when approaching and crossing an intersection or railroad grand crossing, approaching a 

curve or a hill crest, traveling an a narrow or winding roadway, or facing special hazards such as pedestrians, weather or 

highway conditions. Tran. Code §545.351(c) 

465These speed limits apply to passenger cars or motorcycles, passenger cars or light trucks towing a trailer bearing a vessel, 

passenger cars or light trucks towing a trailer used primarily to transport a motorcycle, or passenger cars of light trucks 

towing a trailer or semi-trailer used primarily to transport dogs or livestock.. Tran. Code §545.352(b)(2) A "light truck" is

defined as a truck with a carrying capacity of ≤2,000 lbs. and includes pick-up trucks, panel delivery trucks and carry-all 

trucks. Tran. Code §545.352(d)(2) 
SPEED 2005 246

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) Tran. Code §545.352(b)(6) For counties with a 

population >200,000, this authority may be delegated to the 

county engineer. Tran. Code §251.159 

Certain subdivision residents abutting a private road, not in a 

municipality, may petition the Texas Transportation 

Commission to extend the speed restrictions to such road. 

This applies only if there are at least 400 people that live in a 

subdivision and/or an across adjacent subdivision. Tran. Code 

§542.006(a) 

J) Twenty-five percent of the property owners of a subdivision 

with privately maintained roads or the governing body of the 

entity that maintains these roads may petition the 

Commissioners Court of a county to extend any or all of the 

traffic rules (e.g., speed limits) to such subdivision’s roads. 

Tran. Code §542.007 

 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the Texas 

Transportation Commission may alter the prima facie speed 

limits on State highways and limited-access or controlled 

highways inside or outside of any municipality.466 Tran. Code 

§545.353(a) and (f) 

 II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the Texas 

Turnpike Authority or any Regional Tollway Authority may 

alter the prima facie speed limits on highways under their 

jurisdictions including those inside or outside any 

municipality.467 Tran. Code §545.354(a) and (d) 

III. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, county 

court commissioners may increase the prima facie speed 

limits on highways under their jurisdictions. In addition, they 

may declare lower speed limits if the prima facie limits are 

unreasonable or unsafe.468 Tran. Code §545.355(a). For 

counties with a population >200,000, this authority may be 

delegated to the county engineer. Tran. Code §251.159 

IV. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, 

municipalities may alter the prima facie speed limits on 

highways under their jurisdictions.469 Tran. Code §545.356(a) 

and (b) 

V. Texas law gives United States military commanders the 

authority to alter the prima facie speed limits on state 

highways within a United States military reservation.470 

 

466However, the following limitations apply: a speed limit cannot be established >70 mph; and the speed limits established 

per Tran. Code §545.352(b)(5) for certain vehicles outside an urban district cannot be changed. Tran. Code §545.353(d). 

Exception: The State Commissioner of Transportation may establish a speed limit of 75 mph during the daytime on certain 

parts of the highway system if such a speed limit is deemed to be reasonable and safe. Tran. Code §545.353(h) 

467However, a speed limit cannot be established >70 mph. Tran. Code §545.354(f)(2) 468However, a speed limit can neither be established >60 mph nor <30 mph. Tran. Code §545.355(a) 469However, a speed limit cannot be established >60 mph. Tran. Code §545.356(a) and (b). If there is a conflict in the 

established speed limits by a municipality and the Texas Transportation Commission for any highway, the speed limit 

established by the State prevails. Tran. Code §545.359 

470However, a speed limit cannot be established >60 mph. Tran. Code §545.358. If there is a conflict in the established 

speed limits by the U.S. commander and the Texas Transportation Commission for any highway, the speed limit established 

by the State prevails. Tran. Code §545.359 
247 SPEED 2005 

Tran. Code §545.358 

 Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: VI. Based on investigations, the Texas Transportation 

Commission, the Texas Turnpike Authority or a local 

government may establish safe maximum speed limits for 

bridges or other elevated structures under their respective 

jurisdictions. Tran. Code §545.361(e) 

 VII. The State Transportation Commission and local 

governments are required to hold public hearings upon 

request once each calendar year to consider prime facie speed 

limits on highways that are under their respective 

jurisdictions and that are either near (1) public or private 

elementary or secondary schools or (2) institutions of higher 

education. Tran. Code §545.357 

VIII. The Commissioners Court of a county may request the 

Texas Transportation Commission to establish prima facie

speed limits for farm/ranch-to-market roads without improved 

shoulders that are lower than those provided for under Tran. 

Code §545.352. Tran. Code §545.3535(a) 

 IX. A local authority may regulate the speed of a vehicle in a 

public park. Tran. Code §542.202(a)(6) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive so slowly as to impede the normal and 

reasonable movement of traffic. Tran. Code §545.363(a) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. Tran. Code §545.051(b) 

 Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the Texas 

Transportation Commission, the Texas Turnpike Authority or 

a local government may establish minimum speed limit for 

any highway under their jurisdictions. Tran. Code 

§545.363(b). Note: Via signs, slower moving traffic may be 

directed to use designated lanes. Tran. Code §545.060(c) 

Other: I. Operating vehicles in the following types of situations in 

excess of the given speed limits is prima facie evidence that 

such speed is not reasonable and prudent and is unlawful. 

Tran. Code §545.352(a) 

A) A manufactured house or house trailer cannot be towed in 

excess of the posted speed limit or >55 mph whichever is less. 

Code §623.101(a) 

 B) A school bus with a commercial motor vehicle inspection 

 cannot be driven >60 mph outside an urban district on a 

 “numbered” highway or farm-to-market road. Tran. Code 

 §545.352(b)(4)(A) 

C) A school bus without a commercial motor vehicle 

inspection cannot be driven >50 mph outside an urban district. 

Tran. Code §545.352(b)(4)(B) 

D) A school bus with or without a commercial motor vehicle 

inspection cannot be driven >50 mph outside an urban district 

on a highway that has not been “numbered”. Tran. Code 

§545.352(b)(4)(B) 
SPEED 2005 248

E) 60 mph during the daytime on highways that are outside of 

an urban district for trucks (e.g., truck tractor, trailer or semitrailer) except for light trucks.2

 Tran. Code §545.352(b)(4)(C) 

F) 55 mph during the nighttime on highways that are outside 

of an urban district for trucks (e.g., truck tractor, trailer, or 

semi-trailer). Tran. Code §545.352(b)(4)(C) 

II. 30 mph is the maximum speed limit in a county park that 

borders the Gulf of Mexico. Tran. Code §750.002 

III. A vehicle equipped with solid rubber or cushion tires may 

not be operated >10 mph. Tran. Code §545.361(b) 

IV. Self-propelled agricultural machinery used for planting 

"food materials" and not designed for transportation purposes 

may not be operated >30 mph. Tran. Code §545.361(d) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are misdemeanors. Tran. Code 

§§542.301 and 750.002(b) 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): None

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): $1 to $200. Tran. Code §§542.401 and 750.002(b) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: N/A 

 Other: Double Fines:471 If a speeding offense occurs in a 

construction zone when workers are present, the minimum and 

maximum fines are doubled. Tran. Code §542.404 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension or Revocation at the discretion of the licensing 

agency. This action is based on either (1) on habitually 

reckless or negligent vehicle operation or (2) on habitual 

violation of the traffic laws.472 Tran. Code §§521.292(a) (2) 

and (3) and 521.294 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Revocation — Indefinite Period. Tran. Code §521.312(a) 

Suspension — not more than 1 year. Tran. Code §521.293 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 

473The law also provides for double fines (i.e., from $1 but not more than $200 to $2 but not more than $400) for violating 

a “warning sign” in a construction zone where workers are present. Tran. Code §472.022(a) and (d). 

472A "habitual violator" is defined as a person who has committed either four or more traffic offenses within 12 months or 7 

or more offenses within 24 months. Tran. Code §521.292(b) 
249 SPEED 2005 

 Withdrawal: Revocation — The revocation period cannot be probated and, 

therefore, appears to be mandatory. Tran. Code §521.309 

Suspension — none. A suspension may be probated and is, 

therefore, not mandatory.473 Tran. Code §521.309 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: N/A 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Misdemeanor. Tran. Code §§542.301(b) and 545.420 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term: 

Fine ($ Range): $1 to $200. Tran. Code §542.401 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension or Revocation (Discretionary) based on either 

habitually reckless/negligent vehicle operation or habitual 

violation of the traffic laws. Tran. Code §§521.292 (a) (1) and 

(2) and 521.294

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Revocation — Indefinite Period. Tran. Code §521.312(a) 

Suspension — not more than 1 year. Tran. Code §521.293 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: Revocation — The revocation period cannot be probated and, 

therefore, appears to be mandatory. Tran. Code §521.309 

Suspension — none. A suspension may be probated and is, 

therefore, not mandatory. Tran. Code §521.309 

Other: Double Fines: If an offense occurred in a construction 

 zone when workers were present, the minimum and maximum 

fines are doubled. Tran. Code §542.404 

Reckless Driving: Misdemeanor. Tran. Code §545.401(a) and (b) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 30 days. Tran. Code §545.401(b)(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $200. Tran. Code §545.401(b)(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension or Revocation at the discretion of the licensing 

agency. This action is based either (1) on habitually reckless 

or negligent vehicle operation or (2) on habitual violation of 

 

473If a license suspension is probated, the offender must be placed on probationary status for a period of 90 days to 2 years. 

Tran. Code §521.309(e) 
SPEED 2005 250

the traffic laws. Tran. Code §§521.292 (a) (1) and (2) and 

521.294

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Revocation — Indefinite Period. Tran. Code §521.306(a) 

Suspension — not more than 1 year. Tran. Code §521.306(b) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Revocation — The revocation period cannot be probated and, 

therefore, appears to be mandatory. Tran. Code §521.309 

Suspension — none. A suspension may be probated and is, 

therefore, not mandatory. Tran. Code §521.309 

Other: Double Fines: If a offense occurred in a construction zone 

when workers were present, the maximum fine is doubled. 

Tran. Code §542.404 

Incarceration Costs: A person who has been convicted of a 

misdemeanor offense may be required to pay the cost, at a rate 

of $25 per day, for any incarceration time served in a county 

jail. 

Indigent defendants may not be required to pay this cost. 

Code of Criminal Procedure Art. 42.038(a) and (c) 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators474: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

traffic violations"475 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 

such violations within a 3-year period. 

Tran. Code §522.081(a)(1) and (2) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. Tran. Code 

§522.081(a)(1) and (2) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. Tran. Code 

§522.081(a)(1) and (2) 

 

474A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. Tran. Code 

§522.003(5) 

475A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. Tran. Code 

§522.003(25)(A) and (B) 
 

251 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: UTAH

General Reference: Utah Code Annotated and Utah Administrative Code (UAC) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: A person may not operate a vehicle at a 

speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the existing 

conditions, giving regard to the actual and potential hazards 

then existing. §41-6-46(1) 

Statutory Speed Limit: If the following speed limits are exceeded, it is prima facie

evidence that 

See Other below. such speed was not reasonable or prudent. §41-6-46(3) 

A) 55 M.P.H., except as noted, on highways or streets §41-6-

46(2)(c) Note: See “I” under Posted Speed limits below. 

B) 25 M.P.H. in an urban district §41-6-46(2)(b) 

C) 20 mph in a "reduced speed school zone" §§41-6-20.1, 41-

6-48.5(1) and 41-6-46(2)(a) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on traffic engineering and safety studies, the State 

Department of Transportation may establish different speed 

limits on highways under its jurisdiction.476 §41-6-47(1) and 

(2). Important: The maximum posted speed limit cannot be 

>65 mph on regular highways or >75 mph on limited access 

ones. §41-6-47(3)(a) 

II. Based on traffic engineering and safety studies, a local 

government may establish different speed limits on highways 

under its jurisdiction. §41-6-48(1) and (2). Important: The 

maximum posted speed limit cannot exceed those noted 

above. §§41-6-47(3)(a) and 41-6-48(1) 

III. Based on an investigation, the State Department of 

Transportation may establish a safe maximum speed for any 

bridge or elevated structure. §41-6-50 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. A person may not operate a motor vehicle at a speed so slow 

as to impede or block the normal and 

 

476This includes the establishment of different highway speed limits either (1) for different types of vehicles (e.g., persons 

who operate certain types of trucks may be required to drive these vehicles at a slower speed than those who operate other 

types of motor vehicles), (2) at different times of the day, (3) for highway construction, (4) for various weather conditions, 

or (5) for other highway safety factors. §41-6-47(2). Note: The State Department of Transportation or a local government 

“may designate a specific lane or lanes of travel for any type of vehicle on a highway or portion of a highway under their 

respective jurisdictions for the safety of the public, efficient maintenance of a highway, or us e of high occupancy 

vehicles.” §41-6-53.5(4)(a) 

 
SPEED 2005 252

Basis for a Speed Law Violation 

(continued) reasonable movement of traffic. §41-6-49(1) 

 II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §41-6-53(2) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Department of Transportation or a local government may 

establish a minimum speed limit for a highway on highways 

within their respective jurisdictions. §41-6-49(3) 

Other: The governor may, by proclamation, alter speed limits on 

State highways in time of war or emergency. §41-6-46(4) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are Class C misdemeanors.477 §§41-

6-12(1) and 41-6-48.5(2)(a) 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, Etc.): Not more than 90 days. §76-3-204(3) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Not more than $750.478 §76-3-301(1)(e) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): The following mandatory minimum fines are imposed for 

driving >20 mph in a "reduced speed school zone:" First 

offense — Vehicle Speed 21 to 29 mph — $50; Vehicle 

Speed 30 to 39 mph — $125; and Vehicle Speed ≥40 mph — 

$275; second and subsequent offense — first offense —

Vehicle Speed 21 to 29 mph — $50; Vehicle Speed 30 to 39 

mph — $225; and Vehicle Speed ≥40 mph — $525. §41-6-

48.5(2)(a). Note: The court may order community service in 

lieu of these fines or any portion of such fine. §41-6-

48.5(2)(b) 

 

479Even though exceeding the post speed limit is a Class C misdemeanor, an appellate court allowed the prosecutor to 

change the offense’s classification to an infraction. A person who is convicted of an infraction is subject to only a fine of 

not more than $750 and is not subject to an incarceration sanction. In addition, a person who is charged with an infraction 

has no right to a jury trail. Not addressed in the case was the issue of whether the trial court had the authority, via either

statute or the State’s constitution, to change the classification. Instead, the appellate court held that the trial court, by 

accepting the information for this offense as an infraction, agreed to limit the sanction to only a fine. West Valley City v. 

McDonald, 948 P.2d 371 (Utah App. 1997) 480This is the maximum fine that may be imposed. However, the actual fine that is usually imposed for an offense is one 

that has been established via the Uniform Recommend Fine Schedule. This schedule is established via the State’s Judicial 

Council. §76-3-301.5 
 

253 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: An offender may reduce the number of points on his/her 

driving record by completing a Defensive Driving Course. 

UAC R708-3 — 3 and R708-3-5(1)(b) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system.479 §53-3-221(1)(f) and (4) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Not more than 1 year. §53-3-221(8)(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None. Note: License suspension action is discretionary. 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Double Fine for Speeding in Construction Zones: A person 

who is convicted of speeding in a construction zone when 

workers are present is subject to a fine which is double the 

amount of the fines in the Uniform Recommend Fine 

Schedule. §41-6-13(3)(a) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Class C misdemeanor. §§41-6-12(1) and 41-6-51 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 90 days. §76-3-204(3) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $750.3

 §76-3-301(1)(e) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 

 

479Point System: I. Offenders ≥21 Years Old: An offender who accumulates either 200 to 399 points, 400 to 599 points 

or ≥600 points is subject to respectively, a 3-month, 6-month or 1-year license suspension. In addition, “[t]he suspension 

time is doubled, up to a maximum of one year, for a second or subsequent suspension within a three-year period.” UAC 

R708-3-6. Offenders <21 Years Old: An offender who accumulates 140 to 199 points is subject to license "denial" for 30 

days. If after first denial, he/she accumulates 140 to 199 points within 3 years, he/she is subject to a 60-day license denial. 

If after a second denial, the offender accumulates 140 to 199 points within 3 years, he/she is subject to a 90-day license 

denial. If an offender accumulates 200 to 249 points, 250 to 349 points, 350 to 449 points or 450+ points, he/she is subject 

to respectively, a 60-day, 90-day, 6-month or 1-year license suspension. Also, “[a] third or additional sanction within a 

three-year period will result in a suspension at the next highest threshold, which doubles in length for each succeeding 

sanction within the three-year period up to a maximum of one year.” UAC R708-3-8. II. The following points have been 

assigned to speeding and speed-related traffic law violations: reckless driving-80 points; racing/drag racing/acceleration 

contest/exhibition speed — 60 points; speeding too fast for conditions-50 points; speeding 1 to 10 mph over the speed 

limit-35 points; speeding 11-20 mph over the speed limit-55 points; speeding >20 mph over the speed limit-75 points; 

exceeding the speed limit by less than 11 mph on an interstate-35 or 55 points; exceeding the speed limit in a school zone 1 

to 9 mph-35 points; exceeding the speed limit in a school zone 10 to 19 mph-55 points; exceeding the speed limit in a 

school zone ≥20 mph-75 points; and, driving too slow-50 points. §§53-3-209(2), 53-3-221(4), 63-46b-5(1), UAC R708-3-

4(2), and the Point Violation Code Table as prepared by the Utah Driver License Division of the Department of Public 

Safety. 
SPEED 2005 254

Other Criminal Actions Related To Speeding:

(continued) 

 Type of Action: Suspension via a point system based on (1) a 

 conviction of a serious traffic offense or (2) frequent traffic 

law violations. §53-3-221(1)(d) and (f) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Not more than 1 year. §53-3-221(8)(a) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: None. Note: License suspension action is discretionary with 

the licensing agency. 

Other: An offender may reduce the number of points on his/her 

driving record by completing a Defensive Driving Course. 

UAC R708-3 — 3 and R708-3-5(1)(b) 

Reckless Driving480: Class B misdemeanor. §41-6-45(1) and (2) 

 Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 6 months. §76-3-204(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $1,000. §76-3-301(1)(d) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None.

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): I. Suspension via a point system based on (1) a conviction of 

a serious traffic offense or (2) frequent traffic law violations. 

§53-3-221(1)(d) and (f). II. First offense — The court may 

recommend suspension; second offense (within 12 months) 

— Revocation. §53-3-220(1)(a)(viii) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: I. Under the point system — suspension — not more than 1 

year. §53-3-221(8)(a) II. First offense — After a hearing, the 

licensing agency may suspend an offender’s license for 3 

months; second offense (within 12 months-Revocation — 1 

year. §§53-3-220(1)(a)(viii) and 53-3-225(1)(a) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: I. Under the point system — none. Licensing action is 

discretionary. II. First offense — none; second offense

(within 12 months) — revocation — 1 year. §§53-3-

220(1)(a)(viii) and 53-3-225(1)(a) 

Other: Points may be reduced upon completion of a Defensive 

Driving Course. UAC R708-3 — 3 and R708-3-5(1)(b) 

 

482I. Reckless Driving is defined as operating a vehicle either (1) “in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or 

property” or (2) “while committing three or more moving traffic violations under Title 41, Chapter 6, Traffic Rules and 

Regulations, in a series of acts within a single continuous period of driving.” II. A person commits a Class A misdemeanor 

if he/she recklessly engages in conduct, not amounting to a felony, that creates a substantial risk of death or serious injury 

to another person. §76-5-112. Such conduct could include acts committed while operating a motor vehicle. A person 

convicted of a Class A misdemeanor is subject to an imprisonment term of not more than 1 year and/or a fine of not more 

than $2,500. §§76-3-204(1) and 76-3-301(1)(c) 
 

255 SPEED 2005 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators481: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

traffic violations"482 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 

such violations within a 3-year period. §53-3-414(6) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days. §53-3-414(6) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §53-3-414(6) 

 

481A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport more than 15 persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §53-3-102(5)(a) 482A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §53-3-402(16)(a) 

and (b) 
SPEED 2005 256

JURISDICTION: VERMONT

General Reference: Vermont Statutes Annotated 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at a 

speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the 

conditions, having regard for the actual and potential hazards 

then existing. Title 23, §1081(a) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 50 mph on any highway. Title 23, §1081(b) 

See Other below. 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. The State may establish via regulations483 speed limits for 

interstate, limited-access and controlled-access highways. 

The speed limits that are established via regulation can be 

greater or less than the above statutory speed limit. Title 23, 

§§1004(a) and 1081(c) 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

may increase or decrease the above speed limit on noninterstate highways.484 Title 23, §§1003 and 1081(c) 

III. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, a 

municipal or city government may increase or decrease the 

above speed limit on highways or streets under its jurisdiction. 

However, no speed limit shall be >50 mph or <25 mph. Title 

23, §§1007(a) and (b) and 1081(c) 

IV. Without an engineering and traffic investigation, a 

municipal government may establish a speed limit on all or a 

portion on any unpaved highway within its jurisdiction at not 

more than 50 mph or less than 35 mph. Title 23, §1007(a). 

Note: Although a formal engineering and traffic investigation 

is not required, the law does provide that the municipality 

consider “neighborhood character, abutting land use, bicycle 

and pedestrian use and physical characteristics of the 

highways....”Title 23, §1007(a)(1) 

V. Based upon an investigation, the State may establish a safe 

maximum speed for any bridge or elevated structure. Title 23, 

§1083(b) and (c) 

 

483These regulations are promulgated only after formal public notices and hearings. Title 23, §1004(a). Note: Unlike noninterstate highways, Vermont law does not specifically state whether for interstate, limited-access or controlled-access 

highways, different speed limits may be established either for different types of vehicles, for various weather conditions or 

for different times of the day. 

484On these highways, different speed limits may be established (1) for different types of vehicles (e.g, persons who operate 

certain types of trucks may be required to drive at a slower speed than those who operate other types of motor vehicles), (2) 

for different times of the day, (3) for various weather conditions and (4) for other factors bearing on safe speeds. Title 23,

§1003 
257 SPEED 2005 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. Although this State does not have a minimum speed rule, it 

does have a statute that requires a person who is impeding 

traffic to "pull off the highway at the first opportunity to allow 

the traffic to pass before proceeding." Title 23, §1082 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. Title 23, §1031(b) and 1082. 

 Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Note: Via signs, “specified traffic” (e.g., slower moving 

traffic) may be directed to use designated lanes. Title 23, 

§1038(3) 

Other: I. A local government may establish special speed limits via 

regulations for construction zones or for special occasions. 

Title 23, §§1010 and 1081(c) 

II. A person shall not drive a vehicle that is equipped with 

iron, steel or sold rubber tires >10 mph. Title 23, §1083(a) 

III. No person shall tow a trailer485 >35 mph. Title 23, 

§1083(d) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are traffic violations and are 

Considered Civil Actions. Title 23, §2302(a) and (b) 

Other: 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): None

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Not more than $1000.486 Title 23, §2302(b) and (c) 

Not more than $50 for exceeding the maximum safe speed for 

a bridge or elevated structure. Title 23, §§1083(b) and1096(a) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: An offender may be required to attend a driver retaining 

course. Title 23, §§721 and 722 

 Other: 

 

485This applies only to trailers that are exempt from certain weight requirements of Title 23, §1307. 486Speeding offense penalties are normally determined via a waiver schedule established by the Judicial Bureau. Title 4, 

§1102(b)(1) and (d) 
SPEED 2005 258

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system.487 Title 23, §2501 et seq. 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): ≥30 days. Title 23, §2506 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: Suspensions under the point system appear to be mandatory. 

Title 23, §2506 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: The penalty for speed violations in construction and 

maintenance work zones shall be twice the penalty for nonwork site violations. Title 23, §1010(b) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Excessive Speed488: Misdemeanor. Title 13, §1 and Title 23, §1097 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — not more than 3 months; second offense —

not more than 6 months. Title 23, §1097 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — not more than $300; second offense — not

more than $500. Title 23, §1097 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension via a point system. Title 23, §2501 et seq. 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: ≥30 days. Title 23, §2506 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 

 

487Point System: I. An offender is subject to license suspension if he/she accumulates at least 10 points within a 2-year 

period. Title 23, §2505 The following suspension periods are imposed for the indicated point accumulations: 10 day 

suspension for 10 points; 30 days suspension for 15 points; 90 day suspension for 20 points: an additional 30 day 

suspension for each additional 5 points. Title 23, §2506 II. The following points have been assigned to speeding and 

speed-related offenses: violation of regulations governing speed on interstate highways-2 points; violation of basic speed 

rule and maximum speed limit-2 points; violation of slow moving vehicle law/driving at less than the normal speed of 

traffic and except in the right lane-2 points; violation of special speed limits under Title 23, §1083-2 points; negligent 

vehicle operation — 10 points; exceeding the posted State or local speed limit by <10 mph-2 points; exceeding the posted 

State or local speed limit by >10 but ≤20 mph — 3 points; exceeding the posted State or local speed limit by >20 but ≤30 

mph — 5 points; and, exceeding the posted State or local speed limit by >30 mph — 8 points. Title 23, §2502 

488"Excessive speed" is defined as operating a motor vehicle either >60 mph or >30 mph "in excess of a state speed zone or 

local speed limit." Title 23, §1097 
259 SPEED 2005 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

 Withdrawal: Suspensions under the point system appear to be mandatory. 

Title 23, §2506 

Other: An offender may be required to attend a driverretraining course. Title 23, §§721 and 722 

Negligent Motor Vehicle Operation489: Misdemeanor. Title 13, §1 and Title 23, §1091(a)(3) 

 Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — not more than 1 year; subsequent offense —

not more than 2 years. Title 23, §1091(a)(3) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 

Fine ($ Range): First offense — not more than $1,000; subsequent offense —

not more than $3,000. Title 23, §1091(a)(3) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension.505 Title 23, §2506 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: First offense — 30 days; second offense — 90 days; 

subsequent offense — 6 months..

 Title 23, §2506 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: First offense — 30 days; second offense — 90 days; 

subsequent offense — 6 months. Title 23, §2506 Note: 

These suspensions appear to be mandatory. 

Other: An offender may be required to attend a driver — retraining 

course. Title 23, §§721 and 722 

Grossly Negligent Motor Vehicle Operation506: First offense — misdemeanor; subsequent offense —

felony; offense Involving Either Serious Bodily Injury or 

Death-Felony. Title 13, §1 and Title 23, §1091(b)(3) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — not more than 2 years; subsequent offense 

— not more than 4 years; Offense Involving either Serious 

Bodily Injury or Death — not more than 15 years. Title 23, 

§1091(b)(3) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 

489The standard for "negligence" is "ordinary negligence" using the usual standard "of duty to exercise ordinary care." Title 

23, §1091(a)(2) 

490Suspension can also be via the Point System. Licensing action under this system must be imposed if it would result in a 

longer suspension periods. Title 23, §2506 

491"Gross negligence" is defined as "conduct that involved a gross deviation from the care that a reasonable person would 

have exercised in that situation." Title 23, §1091(b)(2) 
SPEED 2005 260

Fine ($ Range): First offense — not more than $5,000; subsequent offense —

not more than $10,000; Offense Involving either 

 

 Serious Bodily Injury or Death — not more than $15,000. 

Title 23, §1091(b)(3) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension. Title 23, §2506 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: First offense — 30 days; second offense — 90 days; 

subsequent offense — 6 months. Title 23, §2506 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: First offense — 30 days; second offense — 90 days; 

subsequent offense — 6 months. Title 23, §2506 These 

suspensions appear to be mandatory. 

Other: I. An offender may be required to attend a driver — retraining 

course. Title 23, §§721 and 722 

II. Surcharge: In addition to any fine sanction, there is a 

surcharge of $50 that is used to fund drunk-driving law 

enforcement. Title 23, §1091(d) 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators507: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

traffic violations508" within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 

such violations within a 3-year period. Title 23, §4116(d) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. Title 23, 

§4116(d) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. Title 23, 

§4116(d) 

 

492A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport more than 15 persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. Title 23, §4103(4) 493A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or careless or negligent driving. Title 

23, §4103(16)(A) and (B) 
261 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: VIRGINIA

General Reference: Code of Virginia Annotated and Virginia Administrative Code 

(VAC) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: A person cannot drive so as to exceed a reasonable speed 

under the circumstances and traffic conditions existing at the 

time, regardless of any posted speed limit.494 §46.2-861 

Statutory Speed Limit: 65 mph on rural interstate highways, certain highways 

constructed by the Virginia Highway Corporation and 

See Other below. other limited-access highways in counties with a population 

≥45,700 but ≤45,800 §46.2-870 

65 mph on Virginia Route 288 §46.2-870 

55 mph on other interstate highways, limited-access highways 

with divided roadways, non-limited access highways with four 

or more lanes and all State primary highways §46.2-870 

55 mph on all other highways for passenger motor vehicles, 

busses, pickup or panel trucks or motorcycles §46.2-870 

45 mph on all other highways for trucks, tractor trucks, a 

combination of vehicles designed to transport property, or a 

vehicle which is towing either another motor vehicle or a 

house trailer §46.2-870 

35 mph on highways within a city or town excluding interstate 

or other limited access divided highways §46.2-875 

35 mph on non-surface treated highways §46.2-873.1 

25 mph in a business or residential district §46.2-874 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on traffic engineering investigations, the 

Commonwealth Transportation Commission or other authority 

may either (1) decrease the speed limits established under 

§46.2-870 or (2) increase or decrease the speed limits 

established under §§46.2-873 through 46.2-875 on any 

highway under its jurisdiction.495 §§46.2-873.1 and 46.2-878 

II. Based on an investigation, the Commonwealth 

Transportation Commission may establish a safe maximum 

speed limit for public bridges, causeways, 

viaducts or tunnels. §46.2-881 

III. A town with population between 14,000 and 15,000 may 

prohibit driving ≥20 mph in excess of the speed limit in a 

residence district. §46.2-874.1 

 

494Driving too fast for conditions is a reckless driving offense. §46.2-861 495The Commonwealth Transportation Commissioner may establish different speed limits for different times of the day. 

§46.2-878. However, Virginia law does not specifically state whether different speed limits may be established for 

different types of vehicles or for various weather conditions. 
SPEED 2005 262

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

IV. A city with a population between 9,000 and 11,000 may 

prohibit motor vehicle operations at a speed >15 mph in 

excess of the maximum speed limit in a residence district. 

§46.2-874.1 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed 

as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic. 

§46.2-877 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the lane nearest the right edge or right curb of 

the highway when such lane is available for travel. There is 

an exception to this requirement if the right lane of a particular 

highway has been reserved for slow-moving traffic. §46.2-

804(1) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, either the 

State or a local government may establish a minimum speed 

for a highway. §46.2-877 

Other: I. (1) On any highway where the maximum speed limit is ≤55 

mph, the maximum speed limit for a school bus is either 45 

mph or the “minimum speed allowable” whichever is greater; 

(2) On any interstate highway or other highway where the 

speed limit is >55 mph, the maximum speed limit for a school 

bus is 55 mph; (3) A school bus cannot be driven >35 mph 

when taking on or discharging children between the first and 

last stop (not including the school). §46.2-871 

II. On highways with a speed limit ≥55 mph, vehicles 

operating under a special permit issued by the Commonwealth 

Transportation Commissioner under §46.2-1139 cannot be 

driven >55 mph. §46.2-872 

III. The maximum speed limit in a school-crossing zone is 25 

mph. Acting on a school board resolution, a local 

government, via an ordinance, may decrease the speed limit in 

any school-crossing zone to 15 mph. §46.2-873 

IV. Special speed limits may be established for highway work 

zones when workers are present. §46.2-878.1 

V. The maximum speed for passenger vehicles that are towing 

utility, camping or boat trailers having gross weight of ≤2,500 

lbs. shall be the same as for other passenger vehicles. §46.2-

876 
263 SPEED 2005 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: A Violation of the Basic Speed Rule is a Class 1 

Misdemeanor. §§46.2-861 and 46.2-868. All Other speed law 

violations are traffic infractions. §§46.2-113, 46.2-873, 46.2-

878.1 and 46.2-878.2 

Other A violation of §46.2-874.1 is a Civil Penalty. 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): Class 1 misdemeanor — not more than 12 months. §18.2-

11(a) 

Traffic infraction — none.

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Class 1 misdemeanor — not more than $2,500. §18.2-11(a) 

Traffic infraction — not more than $200.496 §§46.2-113 and 

46.2-878.2497

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

 

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: The court or licensing agency may order an offender to attend 

a Driver Improvement Clinic. §§46.2-498 and 46.2-505 

 Other: Important: If a person exceeds the speed limit by 15 mph or 

more while driving a vehicle designed to transport property 

and which has a gross weight rating of ≥26,001 lbs. inclusive 

of a towed vehicle with a gross weight rating ≥10,000 lbs., the 

fine is not more than $500 in addition to any other sanction. 

§§46.2-113 and 46.2-341.20 

 

496The fine for exceeding the maximum posted speed limit in a work zone is not more than $500. §46.2-878.1. Likewise, 

the fine for exceeding either the 25 or 15 mph speed limit in a school crossing zone is not more than the $250. §46.2-

873(E) 

497Sec. 46.2-878.2 makes it a traffic infraction with fine of not more than $200 to exceed the maximum posted speed limit 

on certain specially signed highways in residential districts. These signs must indicate both the maximum allowable speed 

and the penalty imposed for speeding. The State must develop criteria for the installation of such signs. 
SPEED 2005 264

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): I. Class 1 misdemeanor Offense — suspension. §46.2-392 

II. Suspension via a point system.498 §§46.2-492 et seq. 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): I. Class 1 misdemeanor offense — 10 days to 6 months.

§46.2-392 

II. Suspension via a point system-90 days or until the offender 

completes a driver improvement clinic. §§46.2-506(B) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: I. Class 1 misdemeanor offense — none. §46.2-392 Note: 

This court action is discretionary. In addition, if the court 

orders suspension, it may, nevertheless, issue an offender 

restricted driving privileges for employment, educational or 

medical purposes. §46.2-392 

 II. Suspension via a point system-90 days or until the offender 

completes a driver improvement clinic. §§46.2-506(B). 

Note: This licensing action appears to be mandatory. 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: I. Mandatory civil penalty of $100 for violating §46.2-874.1 

 II. A civil penalty of $100 in addition to any other penalty 

provided by law for violating §46.2-874.1 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway499: Class 1 misdemeanor. §§46.2-865 and 46.2-868 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 12 months. §18.2-11(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None.

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $2,500. §18.2-11(a) 

 

498Point System: I. An offender's license is subject to suspension if he/she accumulates 18 points within 12 months or 24 

points within 24 months. §46.2-506. II. The following points have been assigned to speeding and speed-related offenses: 

reckless driving (includes all violations noted to be reckless driving offenses) — 6 points; speeding ≥20 mph above the 

speed limit — 6 points; racing on the highway — 6 points; speeding 10 to 19 mph above the speed limit — 4 points; 

speeding generally (no speed indicated) — 4 points; speeding in vehicles with special permits or while towing anther 

vehicle — 4 points; speeding in a school crossing, a business/residential district, a city or town, on a bridge or in a work 

zone — 4 points; aggressive driving — 4 points; improper driving — 3 points; impeding traffic — 3 points; and, speeding 1 

to 9 mph above the speed limit — 3 points. §46.2-492. III. Persons under 18 years old who receive points are subject to the 

following sanctions: For a first violation where points have been assigned, the person shall be directed to attend a driver 

improvement clinic. For a second violation where points have been assigned, the person shall have his/her driving 

privileges suspended for 90 days. For a third violation where points have been assigned, the person shall have his/her 

driving privileges revoked for either 1 year or until they reach 18 years old whichever is the longer revocation period. 

§46.2-334.01(A)(1), (2) and (3). Comment: The provisions of §46.2-334.01 appear to have superseded those of §46.2-498 

et seq. with regard to offenders <18 years old. In addition, the regulations (24 VAC 20-30 — 10 et seq.) that promulgated 

the point system have been withdrawn due to changes in statutory law. No new regulations have been promulgated to 

replace them. Instead, the State has issued various informational documents that describe the present point system to the 

public. 

499Racing on the highways is a reckless driving offense. §46.2-865 
265 SPEED 2005 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None.

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: First, second and third offense — suspension §46.2-865; 4th 

offense — revocation. §46.2-394 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Suspension — 6 months to 2 years §46.2-865; 

 Revocation — 5 years. §46.2-394 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: Suspension — 6 months §46.2-865; Revocation — 5 years.

§46.2-394. Note: These licensing actions appear to be 

mandatory. 

Other: I. If the offense occurred as a result of a race that was 

prearranged, organized or planned, the vehicle used and 

owned by an offender must be forfeited to the State. §46.2-

867 

II. The court or licensing agency may order an offender to 

attend a Driver Improvement Clinic. §§46.2-498 and 46.2-

505 

III. An offender also accumulates points for this offense. 

 Exceeding the Speed Limit500: Class 1 misdemeanor. §§46.2-862 and 46.2-868 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 12 months. §18.2-11(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $2,500. §18.2-11(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: I. Suspension via court order. §46.2-393 

II. Suspension via a point system. §§46.2-492 et seq. 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: I. Suspension via court order — 60 days to 6 months. §46.2-

393 

II. Suspension via a point system-90 days or until the offender 

completes a driver improvement clinic. §§46.2-506 (B) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: I. Suspension via court order — none. Note: This licensing 

action is discretionary with the court. 

II. Suspension via a point system-90 days or until the offender 

completes a driver improvement clinic. 

 

500The "Exceeding the Speed Limit" offense is a reckless driving offense and is defined to mean driving either (1) ≥20 mph 

over a posted speed limit of ≤30 mph, (2) ≥60 mph where the posted speed limit is 35 mph, (3) ≥20 mph over a posted 

speed limit of ≥40 mph or (4) ≥80 mph regardless of the posted speed limit. §46.2-862 
SPEED 2005 266

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

§§46.2-506(B). Note: This licensing action appears to be 

mandatory. 

Other: The court or licensing agency may order an offender to 

attend a Driver Improvement Clinic. §§46.2-498 and 46.2-

505 

Reckless Driving501: Class 1 misdemeanor. §§46.2-852, 46.2-864502 and 46.2-868 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 12 months. §18.2-11(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $2,500. §18.2-11(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

 Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): I. Suspension via court order. §46.2-392 

II. Suspension via a point system. §§46.2-492 et seq. 

 Length of Term of License 

Withdrawal Action: I. Suspension via court order — 10 days to 6 months.503

§46.2-392 

II. Suspension via a point system-90 days or until the offender 

completes a driver improvement clinic. §46.2-506 (B) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: I. Suspension via court order — none. Note: This court 

action is discretionary. In addition, if the court orders 

suspension, it may, nevertheless, issue an offender restricted 

driving privileges for employment, educational or medical 

purposes. §46.2-392 

 II. Suspension via a point system-90 days or until the 

offender completes a driver improvement clinic. §§46.2-

506(B). Note: This licensing action appears to be mandatory. 

Other: I. If the offender has caused the death of another person, the 

discretionary suspension period is not more than 12 months. 

§46.2-396 

II. The court or licensing agency may order an offender to 

attend a Driver Improvement Clinic. §§46.2-498 and 46.2-

505 

 

 III. If a driver commits one or more of several listed 

violations, he/she is guilty of aggressive driving which carries 

 

501In this State, "reckless driving" is defined as driving "a vehicle on any highway recklessly or at a speed or in a manner so 

as to endanger the life, limb, or property of any person." §46.2-852. Important: Under Virginia law, the term "reckless 

driving offense" includes numerous moving violations. 

502Under §46.2-864, a person commits a reckless driving offense if he/she operates a "motor vehicle at a speed or in a 

manner so as to endanger the life, limb, or property of any person" on a church, school, recreational facility, business 

property open to the public or the public parking space of an industrial establishment. 503For a violation of §46.2-864, the discretionary suspension period is 60 days to 6 months. §46.2-393 
267 SPEED 2005 

the sanction of a Class 1 misdemeanor (6 mo. jail and/or 

$1,000) or a Class 2 misdemeanor (12 mo. 

 jail and/or $2,500) if committed with intent to injure another. 

§46.1-868.1(a) and (b) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

IV. If a person commits reckless driving while driving a 

vehicle designed to transport property and which has a gross 

weight rating of ≥26,001 lbs. inclusive of a towed vehicle with 

a gross weight rating ≥10,000 lbs., the fine is not more than 

$500 in addition to any other sanction. §§46.2-113 and 46.2-

341.20 

Improper Driving504: Traffic infraction. §46.2-869 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: 

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $500. §46.2-869 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

 Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via a point system. §§46.2-492 et seq. 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension via a point system-90 days or until the offender 

completes a driver improvement clinic. §§46.2-506 (B) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension via a point system-90 days or until the offender 

completes a driver improvement clinic. 

 §§46.2-506(B). Note: This licensing action appears to be 

mandatory. 

Other: The court or licensing agency may order an offender to attend 

a Driver Improvement Clinic. §§46.2-498 and 46.2-505 

 

504The court or an attorney for the commonwealth may reduce any reckless driving offense to improper driving if "the 

degree of culpability is slight." §46.2-869. Important: Under Virginia law, "improper driving" is not a defined crime. As 

such, law enforcement officers do not charge a person with this offense. Instead, a driver is normally charged with an 

offense which has been "labeled" as "reckless driving" and, if the circumstances warrant, the court reduces such charge to 

"improper driving" for sentencing purposes. 
SPEED 2005 268

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators505: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

traffic violations"506 within a 3-year period or 

 (2) commits 3 such violations within a 3-year period. §46.2-

341.20(B) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §46.2-

341.20(B) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §46.2-341.20(B) 

 

505A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §46.2-341. 506A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §46.2-

341.20(A)(1) and (2) 
269 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: WASHINGTON

General Reference: Revised Code of Washington Annotated and Washington 

Administrative Code (WAC) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is 

reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having 

regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing.507 

§46.61.400(1) and (3) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 60 mph on State highways §46.61.400(2)(c) Important: See 

"II" below under Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit 

 See Other below. below. 

50 mph on county roads §46.61.400(2)(b) 

25 mph on city or town streets §46.61.400(2)(a) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Secretary of Transportation may decrease the above speed 

limits on any State highway.508 §46.61.405 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Secretary of Transportation may increase the above speed 

limits on any State highway. However, a posted speed limit 

cannot be >70 mph. §46.61.410(1)(a) 

III. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, a local 

government may increase or decrease the above speed limits 

on streets and roads under its jurisdiction. However, a posted 

speed limit cannot be established >60 mph or <20 mph. 

§46.61.415(1) and (2) 

IV. The State Secretary of Transportation or a local 

government may establish maximum speed limits for bridges, 

elevated structures, tunnels or underpasses within their 

respective jurisdictions. §46.61.450 

V. 15 mph in State park camps, picnic, headquarters or 

general public assemblage areas or 25 mph in other park areas. 

WAC 352-20-030 

 

507In addition, persons are required to exercise "due care and caution" when operating a motor vehicle. §46.61.445 Also, 

in a State park, a person shall not operate a motor vehicle at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent, having due 

regard for the traffic, and the surface and width of the road, and in no event at a speed which endangers the safety of 

persons, property, or wildlife. WAC 352-20-030 

508I. The State Secretary of Transportation has the authority to alter speed limits on State highways even if such highways 

are within the limits of a town or city. §46.61.430. In order to avoid a conflict of authority, a city or town desiring to alter 

a speed limit on a State highway within their jurisdiction must obtain approval from the Secretary for such alteration. 

§46.61.415(5). II. The State Secretary of Transportation also has the authority to establish different highway speed limits 

(1) for different types of vehicles (e.g., persons who operate certain types of trucks may be required to drive at a slower 

speed than those who operate other types of motor vehicles), (2) at different times of the day, (3) for various weather 

conditions, or (4) for other factors bearing on safe speeds. §46.61.405 
SPEED 2005 270

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed as 

to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic. 

§46.61.425(1) 

II. No person shall drive continuously in the left lane of a 

multi-lane roadway when doing so impedes the flow of traffic. 

§46.61.100(4) 

III. When driving a vehicle on a highway having two or more 

lanes of traffic in the same direction, a person shall drive in 

the right-hand lane except when traveling at a speed greater 

than the traffic flow. §46.61.100(2) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

Secretary of Transportation or a local government may 

establish a minimum speed limit for highways, streets or roads 

within their respective jurisdictions. §46.61.425(2) 

Other: I. 60 mph is the maximum speed limit for vehicles weighing 

>10,000 lbs.509

 II. Except when a lower speed limit is authorized, the 

maximum speed limit in a marked school or playground 

crosswalk is 20 mph. The speed zone extends 300 ft. in either 

direction of the marked crosswalk. §46.61.440(1) 

III. A person cannot operate a vehicle that is equipped with 

solid rubber or hollow center cushion tires >10 mph. 

§46.61.455 

IV. The State Secretary of Transportation may establish a 

speed limit for any roadway construction zone via traffic 

control devices. §46.61.527(2) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: Generally, speed law violations are traffic Infractions. 

§§46.61.100(4) and 46.63.020. Important: See Reckless 

Driving. 

Other: 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): None

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 

509Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State Secretary of Transportation may establish a lower speed limit 

for these vehicles. §§46.61.405 and 46.61.410(2) 
271 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Not more than $250510 §46.63.110(1) 

Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None 

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: N/A 

 Other: I. For traffic infractions, an offender may be allowed to 

perform community service in lieu of a fine. §46.63.120(2) 

II. Double Fines: There is a mandatory fine for exceeding the 

speed limit in a either a marked school/playground crosswalk 

or a construction zone which is double the normal amount. 

§§46.61.440(2) and 46.61.527(3) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension Based Upon Frequent violations511 §46.20.291(3) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Not more than 1 year. §46.20.311(1)(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None. This licensing action is discretionary.512 §46.20.291. 

Note: If a person’s license is suspended, an occupational 

license is available. §46.20.391(2) 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Public Safety and Education Assessment: In addition to 

any other fine, an offender is subject to two public safety and 

education assessments and 1 monetary penalty. The first 

assessment is equal to 60 percent of any fine imposed. The 

second is equal to 50 percent of the first. The third is a fixed 

penalty of $10. (This penalty does not apply to speeding 

 

510Fine Schedule: The State Supreme Court is required to establish a monetary penalty schedule for traffic infractions. 

§46.63.110. Under this law, the court has established the following fines for speeding offenses: I. For speed limits >40 

mph, the following fine schedule applies: 1 to 5 mph over the speed limit — $22; 6 to 10 mph over the speed limit — $32; 

11 to 15 mph over the speed limit — $47; 16 to 20 mph over the speed limit — $62; 21 to 25 mph over the speed limit — 

$77; 26 to 30 mph over the speed limit — $97; 31 to 35 mph over the speed limit — $122; 36 to 40 mph over the speed 

limit — $147; >40 mph over the speed limit — $177. II. For speed limits ≤40 mph, the following fine schedule applies: 1 

to 5 mph over the speed limit — $32; 6 to 10 mph over the speed limit — $37; 11 to 15 mph over the speed limit — $52; 

16 to 20 mph over the speed limit — $72; 21 to 25 mph over the speed limit — $97; 26 to 30 mph over the speed limit — 

$122; 31 to 35 mph over the speed limit — $147; >35 mph over the speed limit — $177. III. The following fine schedule 

applies for other speeding and other related offenses: speeding too fast for conditions — $37; impeding traffic — $37; 

speeding in State parks — $37; and, on a multilane highway, failure to drive in the right lane except when traveling at a 

speed greater than the traffic flow — $37. Washington Court Rule 6.2 511Licensing action is based upon frequent traffic law violations that indicate disrespect for these laws. §46.20.291(3). A 

person is considered a frequent violator of the traffic laws if he/she commits 4 traffic offenses within 12 months or 5 such 

offenses within 24 months. WAC 308-104-035 

512In lieu of suspension, the licensing agency may place the offender on probation on such terms as it considers appropriate. 

§46.20.335. In addition, if the offender's license has been suspended, he/she may be eligible for occupational driving 

privileges. §46.20.391 
SPEED 2005 272

offenses in construction zones.) §§3.62.090(1) and (2) and 

46.63.110(8) 

Other Monetary Penalties: An offender is also subject to a 

$5 fee that is used to support the emergency medical 

 services and trauma case system. §46.63.110(7) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway513: Gross misdemeanor §§46.61.500(1) and 46.61.530 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 1 year. §46.61.500(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $5,000. §46.61.500(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension. §46.61.500(2);third offense (within 2 years) — 

Revocation. §46.20.285(7) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Suspension-30 days to 1 year §§46.61.500(2) and 46.20.311; 

third offense (within 2 years) — Revocation — 2 years. 

§§46.20.285(7) and 46.20.311(2) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: Suspension — none514 §46.61.500(2); Revocation — third 

offense (within 2 years) — 2 years. §§46.20.285(7) and 

46.20.311(2) 

 Other: I. There is a penalty assessment of $500. §7.68.035(1)(a) and 

(2) 

 II. Public Safety and Education Assessment: In addition to 

any other fine, an offender is subject to two public safety and 

education assessments. The first assessment is equal to 60 

percent of any fine imposed. The second is equal to 50 

percent of the first. §3.62.090(1) and (2) 

Reckless Driving515: Gross misdemeanor. §46.61.500(1) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 1 year. §46.61.500(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

 

513Racing on the highways is considered a reckless driving offense. §46.61.530 514An offender is eligible for occupational driving privileges. §46.20.391(1). However, such privileges are not available if 

the offender has had a previous offense that requires mandatory suspension or revocation within 1 year. §46.20.391(3)(a) 

515Exceeding the maximum lawful speed limit is prima facie evidence of reckless driving. §46.61.465 and State v. Amurri,

753 P.2d 540 (Wash. App. 1988). In addition, it is unlawful for any person to operate a motor vehicle while embracing 

another individual if such would prevent the free and unhampered operation of the vehicle. A violation of this prohibition 

is prima facie evidence of reckless driving. §46.61.665 
273 SPEED 2005 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $5,000. §46.61.500(1) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension §46.61.500(2); third offense (within 2 years) — 

 Revocation. §46.20.285(7) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension-30 days to 1 year §§46.61.500(2) and 46.20.311; 

third offense (within 2 years) — Revocation — 2 years. 

§§46.20.285(7) and 46.20.311(2) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension — none §46.61.500(2); Revocation — third 

offense (within 2 years) — 2 years. §§46.20.285(7) and 

46.20.311(2) 

Other: I. Penalty Assessment: There is a mandatory penalty 

 assessment of $500. §7.68.035(1)(a) and (2) 

II. Public Safety and Education Assessment: In addition to 

any other fine, an offender is subject to two public safety and 

education assessments. The first assessment is equal to 60 

percent of any fine imposed. 

III. Reckless Endangerment of Roadway Workers: It is a 

gross misdemeanor to drive a vehicle in a roadway 

construction zone in such a manner as to endanger or is likely 

to endanger any persons or property. The sanctions for this 

offense are imprisonment in the county jail for not more than 

1 year and/or a fine of not more than $5,000. In addition, the 

offender’s driving privileges are suspended for a mandatory 

period of 60 days. §§9A.20.021(2) and 46.61.527(4) and (5) 

Negligent Driving516: Traffic infraction. §46.61.525(1)(a) and (c) 

 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 

516Negligent driving (second degree) is defined as operating "a motor vehicle in a manner that is both negligent and 

endangers or is likely to endanger any person or property." §46.61.525(1)(a) The term "negligent" is defined to mean "the 

failure to exercise ordinary care, and is the doing of some act that a reasonable careful person would not do under the same 

or similar circumstances or the failure to do something that a reasonably careful person would do under the same or similar 

circumstances." §46.61.525(2)

Important: A person commits negligent driving in the first degree, a misdemeanor, if (1) he/she operates a motor vehicle 

in a negligent manner likely to endanger persons or property, and (2) he/she exhibits the effects of having consumed 

alcohol or an illegal drug. It is a defense to this offense if the person had a valid prescription for the drug consumed and 

had been consuming it according to prescription directions and warnings. The sanctions for this offense are a jail term of 

not more than 90 days and/or a fine of not more than $1,000. In addition, there is a mandatory penalty assessment of $250. 

§§7.68.035(1)(a) and (2), 9A.20.010(2), 9A.20.021(3), and 46.61.5249 
SPEED 2005 274

 of Imprisonment: 

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $250. §46.61.525(1)(c) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

(Susp/Rev): Suspension Based Upon Frequent Violation. 46.20.291(3) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Not more than 1 year. §46.20.311(1) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: None. This licensing action is discretionary. §46.20.291. 

Note: If a person’s license is suspended, an occupational 

license is available. §46.20.391(2) 

Other: I. For traffic infractions, an offender may be allowed to 

perform community service in lieu of a fine. §46.63.120 

II. Public Safety and Education Assessment and Penalty: 

In addition to any other fine, an offender is subject to two 

public safety and education assessments. The first assessment 

is equal to 60 percent of any fine imposed. The second is 

equal to 50 percent of the first. The third is a fixed penalty of 

$10. §§3.62.090(1) and (2) and 46.63.110(7) 

 III. Other Monetary Penalties: An offender is also subject 

to a $5 fee that is used to support the emergency medical 

services and trauma case system. §46.63.110(6) 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators517: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV, if within a 3-

year period, while driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) 

commits 2 "serious traffic violations"518 or (2) commits 3 such 

violations. §46.25.090(5) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days. §46.25.090(5) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. 

§46.25.090(5) 

 

517A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §46.25.010(6) 518A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. 

§46.25.010(16)(a) and (b) 
275 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: WEST VIRGINIA

General Reference: West Virginia Code and West Virginia Code of State Rules 

(CSR) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

 Basic Speed Rule: No person may drive a vehicle at speed 

greater than is reasonable and prudent under the existing 

conditions and the actual and potential hazards. §17C-6-1(a) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 55 mph on open country highways, controlled-access 

highways and interstate highways. §17C-6-1(b)(3) and (d). 

Note: The law provides that the speed limit “shall be not be 

less than” 55 mph for controlled-access and interstate 

highways. (or 65 mph where posted). §17C-6-1(d) 

25 mph in a business or residential district §17C-6-1(b)(2) 

15 mph in a school zone519 §17C-6-1(b)(1) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the 

Commissioner of Highways may increase or decrease the 

above speed limits on any interstate or State highway. §17C6-2. Note: West Virginia law does not specifically state 

whether different highway speed limits may be established 

either for different types of vehicles, for various weather 

conditions or for different times of the day. 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, a local 

government may decrease the above speed limits at 

intersections.520 §§17C-2-8(a)(5) and (a)(10) and 17C-6-3(a) 

III. Local governments may increase the above 25 mph speed 

limit on highways within a business or residential district. 

However, no speed limit shall be >55 mph. §17C-6-3(b) 

IV. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, a local 

government may decrease the above 55 mph 

speed limit on open country highways outside a business or 

residential district. However, no limit shall be <35 mph. 

§17C-6-3(c) 

V. A local government may decrease the 25 mph speed limit 

in a residential district. §17C-6-3(d) 

VI. Based upon an investigation, the Commissioner of 

Highways may establish safe maximum speed limits for 

bridges or elevated structures. §17C-6-5(b) and (c) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

 Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed as 

to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic. 

§17C-6-3a(a) 

 

519This speed limit is in effect "during school recess or while children are going to or leaving school during opening or 

closing hours." §17C-6-1(b)(1) 

520If the speed alteration by a local government applies to a State highway or an extension thereof, such alteration must be 

approved by the Commissioner of Highways. §17C-6-3(e) 
SPEED 2005 276

Minimum Speed Limit: (continued) II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §17C-7-1(b) 

 Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the 

“commissioner”521 or a local government may establish 

minimum speed limits for the highways under their respective 

jurisdictions. §17C-6-3a(b) 

Other: I. The following speed limits apply to vehicles that are not 

designed to carry passengers and are equipped with pneumatic 

tires: 40 mph on a county road, 25 mph in a residential 

district and 20 mph in a business district.522 §17C-6-4 

II. A vehicle that is not equipped with pneumatic tires cannot 

be driven >10 mph. §17C-6-5(a) 

III. Speed limits must be posted for “construction zones.” 

§17C-3-4b(a) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are misdemeanors. §§17C-6-1(e) and 

(f), 17C-3-4b, 17C-6-3a(c), 17C-6-5(e), 17C-6-4, 17C-7-(c) 

and 17C-18-1(a) 

Other: 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): Basic Speed Rule Violation or Exceeding Speed Limit: 

first offense — none; second offense (within 1 year) — none; 

third or subsequent offense (within 2 years) — 

 None. Exception: third or subsequent offense (within 2 

years) where the offender exceeded the speed limit by ≥15 

mph — not more than 6 months. §17C-6-1(e) 

Speeding <10 mph Over the Speed Limit on a ControlledAccess or Interstate Highway: None.

 

533Given that §17C-6-3a(b) concerns the establishment of speed limits, the term “commissioner,” which is not identified in 

this section, probably refers to the Commissioner of Highways and not to the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles. Note: 

Normally, the term “commissioner” in Chapter 17C would refer to the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles. However, this 

State official is not usually responsible for establishing speed limits. At the Such level, the authority to establish such limits 

most often rests with the State Commissioner of Highways. §§17-2A-1, 17C-1 — 1 and 17C–1-27 

522Trucks weighing ≤8,000 lbs. may be driven at the same speed as passenger cars. §17C-6-4 
277 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Speeding in a School Zone: None. Exception: Exceeding 

the Speed Limit ≥15 mph when one or more children are in 

the school zone — not more than 6 months. §17C-6-1(f) 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): (continued) Speeding in a Construction Zone: ≥15 mph Over the Speed 

Limit — not more than 20 days. §17C-3-4b(c) 

Violation of (1) the Minimum Speed Rule, (2) the Posted 

Minimum Speed Limit, (3) the Speed Limit for Vehicles with 

Pneumatic Tires and (4) Speed Limit Established for a Bridge 

or Elevated Structure: None. 

All Other speed law violations: first offense — not more than 

10 days; second offense (within 1 year) — not more than 20 

days; subsequent offense — not more than 6 months. §§17C6 — 4 and 17C-18-1(b) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Basic Speed Rule Violation or Exceeding Speed Limit: first 

offense — not more than $100; second offense (within 1 year) 

— not more than $200; third or subsequent offense (within 2 

years) — not more than $500. §17C-6-1(e) 

Speeding <10 mph Over the Speed Limit on a ControlledAccess or Interstate Highway: Not more than $5 plus court 

costs. §17C-6-1(g). 

Speeding in School Zone: $100 to $500. §17C-6-1(f) 

Speeding in a Construction Zone: Not more than $200. §17C3-4b(b) and (c) 

Violation of (1) the Minimum Speed Rule, (2) the Posted 

Minimum Speed Limit, (3) the Speed Limit for Vehicles with 

Pneumatic Tires and (4) Speed Limit Established for a Bridge 

or Elevated Structure: first offense — not more than $100; 

second offense (within 1 year) — not more than $200; third

or subsequent offense (within 2 years) — not more than $500. 

§§17C-6-3a(c) and 17C-6-5(e) 

All other speed law violations: first offense — not more than 

$100; second offense (within 1 year) — not more than $200; 

subsequent offense — not more than $500. §17C-18-1(b) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None 

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: If an offender successfully completes a Driver 

 Improvement Program, points may be deducted from the 

driving record. CSR §91-5-8 

 Other: Alternative Sentences: In lieu of either a fine or incarceration 

sanction (except mandatory incarceration via statute), a court 

may impose one of the following 
SPEED 2005 278

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

 sentences: (1) a weekend jail program where the offender 

spends weekends or “other days normally off from work” 

 in confinement; (2) first one or two days in confinement 

followed by work assignments either within the jail or on 

other public works projects outside of the jail; or, (3) a 

 community service program with government entities, 

charitable or other non-profit organizations which have been 

approved by the court. §62-11A-1a(a)(1), (20 and (3) and 

(c)(1) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension based on Frequent Violation of the Traffic 

Laws.523 §17B-3-6(a)(3) and (4) Note: No abstract of a 

conviction for exceeding the speed limit by <10 mph on either 

a controlled-access or interstate highway is transmitted to the 

licensing agency. §17C-6-1(h) and (i) This provision does 

not apply to persons who have been issued Commercial 

Driver’s Licenses and who were operating a Commercial 

Motor Vehicle at the time of the offense. §17C-6-1(h) and (i) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Not more than 1 year. §17B-3-8 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None. License action is discretionary. §17B-3-6(a) 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Misdemeanor. §17C-6-8(a) and (b) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — none; second offense — 6 to 60 days; 

subsequent offense — 60 days to 4 months. §17C-6-8(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $50 to $100; second offense — $50 to $500; 

subsequent offense — $100 to $1,000. §17C-6-8(b) 

 

523Point System: The licensing agency has established the following point system to assist it in identifying offenders who 

may be subject to licensing action because of frequent violations of the traffic laws. I. When an offender has accumulated 

6 — 8 points, he/she may be subject to either a warning letter, probation for not more than 1 year or license suspension for 

not more than 1 year. An offender who accumulates 12-13 points is subject to a 30-day suspension; 14-15 points is subject 

to a 45-day suspension; 16-17 points, a 60-day suspension; 18-19 points, a 90-day suspension; and 20 or more point, 

suspension until less than 12 points remain on his/her record. (Points remain on a person’s record for 2 years.) CSR §91-5 

— 7 (7.9) and (7.10). II. The following points have been assigned to speeding or speed-related violations: reckless driving 

— 6 points; speeding in a school zone — 6 points; speeding 15mph or more over the posted limit — 5 points; speeding ≥10 

but <15 mph over the posted limit — 3 points; speeding ≥5 but<10 mph over the posted limit-2 points; and driving too fast 

for conditions — 3 points. CSR §91-5-7(7.2). 
279 SPEED 2005 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding 

(continued) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Revocation. §17C-6-8(c) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: First offense — 6 months; second offense (within 2 years) — 

2 years; 

 Subsequent offense (within 5 years) — 5 years. §17C-6-8(c) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: First offense — 6 months; second offense (within 2 years) — 

2 years; subsequent offense (within 5 years) — 5 years. 

§17C-6-8(c). These revocation periods appear to be 

mandatory. 

Other: See Alternative Sentences. 

Reckless Driving: Misdemeanor. §§17C-5-3(a) and 17C-18-1(a) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — 5 to 90 days; subsequent offense — 10 days 

to 6 months. §17C-5-3(c) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $25 to $500; subsequent offense — $50 to 

$1,000. §17C-5-3(c) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension Based on Frequent Violation of the Traffic Laws. 

§17B-3-6(a)(3) and (4); Revocation — 3 reckless driving 

convictions within 24 months. §17B-3-5(5) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension — not more than 1 year. §17B-3-8. Revocation

— 1 year. §17B-1-1(q) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension — none. License action is discretionary. §17B-3-

6(a) Revocation — 1 year. §17B-1-1(q) 

Other: If an offender successfully completes a Driver Improvement 

Program, points may be deducted from the driving record. 

CSR §91-5-8 

See Alternative Sentences. 
SPEED 2005 280

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators524: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators 

(continued) traffic violations"525 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 

such violations within a 3-year period. §17E-1-13(e) 

 Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days. §17E-1-13(e) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §17E-1-13(e) 

 

524A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §17E-1 — 3 and 

49 CFR §383.5 

525A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §17E-1-3 
281 SPEED 2005 

JURISDICTION: WISCONSIN

General Reference: Wisconsin Statutes Annotated and Wisconsin Administrative 

Code (WAC) 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person may drive a vehicle at a speed 

greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions 

and having regard for the actual and potential hazards then 

existing. §346.57(2) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 65 mph on any freeway or expressway when posted

§346.57(4)(gm) 

See Other below. 55 mph on highways not posted §346.57(4)(h) 

45 mph on designated rustic roads §346.57(4)(k) 

35 mph on highways within semi-urban district outside city or 

village corporate limits §346.57(4)(g) 

35 mph on outlying district highways within city or village 

corporate limits §346.57(4)(f) 

35 mph on certain highway in business, industrial and 

residential districts §346.57(4)(j) 

25 mph on service roads with city or village corporate limits 

§346.57(4)(em) 

25 mph on other highways within city or village corporate 

limits §346.57(4)(e) 

15 mph in an alley §346.57(4)(d) 

15 mph in a safety zone occupied by pedestrians and where a 

“public passenger vehicle” has stopped to receive or discharge 

passengers §346.57(4)(c) 

15 mph in a "school crossing" §346.57(4)(b) 

15 mph when passing a school during times when children are 

either going to or from a school or when children "are playing 

within the sidewalk area at or about the school" §346.57(4)(a) 

15 mph in town parks or recreation area when children are 

going to or from or playing within such areas §346.57(4)(i) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

may increase or decrease the above speed limits on highways 

under its jurisdiction. However, no speed limit can be >65 

mph on freeways or expressways or 55 mph on other 

highways.526 §§346.57(5) and 349.11(1)(a), (2)(a), (8)(a) and 

(8m) 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, a local 

government may increase or decrease the above speed limits 

on highways under its jurisdiction. However, no 

 

526In addition, the State cannot modify the maximum statutory speed of 15 mph in a safety zone or the speed limit on the 

more than 2,000 miles of State trunk highways. §349.11(2)(b) and (c) 
SPEED 2005 282

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: (continued) 

speed limit can be >55 mph.527 §§346.57(5) and 349.11(1)(a), 

(3)(a) and (8m) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: Note: State or local government maximum speed limits 

established under either I or II above must be uniformly 

applicable to all types of motor vehicles. However, there is an 

exception. A lower speed limit may be established for 

vehicles that, because of their weight or size, are operating 

under a special permit. §349.11(8)(c) and (8m)(c) 

III. Based on an investigation, the State may establish safe 

maximum speed limits on bridges, causeways, viaducts or 

other structures. §349.11(4) 

IV. Local governments may establish temporary speed limits 

on highways that are under going construction or 

maintenance. §349.11(10) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at a speed so slowly 

as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic. 

§346.59(1) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §346.05(3) 

 Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State may 

establish a minimum speed limit for State trunk highways. 

§349.11(1)(b). Note: specified traffic lanes may be designated 

for certain speeds. §346.13(3) 

Other: No person shall drive a vehicle that is equipped with metal or 

solid rubber tires >15 mph. §346.58 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are Civil Forfeiture Offenses. 

§§346.17(2), 346.60 and 939.12 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): None

 

527In addition, a local government cannot modify the maximum statutory speed of 15 mph in a safety zone. §349.11(3)(b). 

Such government must obtain State approve to modify speed limits within corporate limits or within a semi-urban district 

outside corporate limits. In addition, it cannot reduce by 10 mph (15 mph on rustic roads) or less statutory speed limits 

without State approval. §349.11(3)(c) 
283 SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: 

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): Violating the Basic Speed Law, School Area Speed Limits 

(See II under Other below.), Pedestrian/Passenger Safety 

Zone Speed Limits — first offense — $40 to $300; 

subsequent offense — $80 to $600. §346.60(3) 

Violating the 65 mph Speed Limit — $50 to $300. 

§346.60(2)(b) 

Violating Other Speed Limits528 — $30 to $300. 

§346.60(2)(a) 

Violating the Minimum Speed Law (Impeding Traffic) — 

first offense — $20 to $40; subsequent offense — $50 to 

$100. §346.60(1) 

Failing to Maintain Speed Except in Right Lane — $30 to 

$300. §346.17(2) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: An offender may have points deducted from his/her driving 

record if he/she participates in driver improvement 

counseling, a traffic safety school, or a defensive driving 

course. WAC 101.07 

 Other: I. The above minimum and maximum fines (forfeitures) are 

double if the following offenses occur in a highway 

maintenance, construction area or utility work area: violating 

the basic speed law; exceeding the speed limit in an alley; or, 

exceeding the speed limit on highways or roads with 25 to 65 

mph speed limits.529 §346.60(3m)(a) 

II. The above minimum and maximum fines (forfeitures) are 

double if a person violates the basic speed rule in a 

“designated” school zone (“school crossing”) or exceeds the 

speed limit in such a zone. This sanction applies on any type 

of highway (road). §§118.08(1) and 346.60(3m)(b) 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action (Susp/Rev): Suspension via the courts. §343.30(1) and (1n) 

Suspension or Revocation: Based upon repeated violation of 

the traffic laws via a point system.530 

 

528This includes a violation of §346.58 which prohibits a person from driving a motor vehicle that is equipped with metal or 

solid rubber tires >15 mph. §346.60(2)(a) 

The “double fine” sanction for speeding in a construction zone does not apply (1) in certain 15 mph school, park or safety 

zones, (2) on 35 mph highways located in certain business, industrial or residential areas and (3) on 45 mph highways 

which have been designated as rustic roads. §§346.(3m)(a) and 346.57 

530Point System: I. An offender's license is subject to either suspension or revocation for 2 months, 4 months, 6 months or 

1 year if he/she accumulates respectively 12 to 16 points, 17 to 22 points, 23 to 30 points or >30 points within 12 months. 

WAC Trans. 101.04. II. The following points have been assigned to speeding to speed-related offenses: racing on the 

highways — 6 points; reckless driving — 6 points; speeding ≥20 mph over the speed limit — 6 points; imprudent speed or 

driving too fast for conditions — 4 points; speeding >10 mph but <20 mph over the speed limit — 4 points; inattentive 

driving — 4 points; unnecessary acceleration — 4 points; speeding ≤10 mph over the speed limit — 3 points; and 

obstructing traffic/driving excessively slowly-2 points. §343.32(2)(b) and WAC Trans. 101.02 
SPEED 2005 284

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

§343.32(2)(a) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Suspension via the courts: (1) For speeding ≥25 mph over the 

65 or 55 mph speed limit-15 day suspension. §343.30(1n). 

(2) For other violations — not more than 1 year. §343.30(1) 

Suspension or Revocation via a point system-2 months to 1 

year. §343.32(3) and WAC Trans. 101.04 

Mandatory Minimum Term of Withdrawal: Suspension via the courts: (1) For speeding ≥25 mph over the 

65 or 55 mph speed limit-15 day suspension. §343.30(1n). 

(2) For other violations — none. Note: Licensing action is 

discretionary §343.30(1). Suspension or Revocation via a 

point system — none. Note: A person is eligible for 

occupational driving privileges. §343.32(6) 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Bicycle Operators: I. A person who exceeds the speed limit 

while operating a bicycle is subject to a Civil Forfeiture of not 

more than $20. §346.60(5)(a). II. A person who obstructs 

traffic while operating a bicycle is subject to a Civil Forfeiture 

of not more than $10. §346.60(5)(b) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Civil Forfeiture. §§346.94(2) and 346.95(2) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term: 

Fine ($ Range): $20 to $400. §346.95(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension via the courts. §343.30 

Suspension or Revocation: Based upon repeated violation of 

the traffic laws via a point system. §343.32(2)(a) 

 Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Suspension via the courts — not more than 1 year. 

§343.30(1) 

Suspension or Revocation via a point system-2 months to 1 

year. §343.32(3) and WAC Trans. 101.04 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: Suspension via the courts — none. Note: Licensing action is 

discretionary. §343.30(1) 
285 SPEED 2005 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Suspension or Revocation via a point system — none. Note: 

A person is eligible for occupational driving privileges. 

§343.32(6) 

Other: N/A 

Reckless Driving531: Civil Forfeiture, misdemeanor or felony. §§346.62(2), (3) and 

(4), 939.12 and 939.60 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Endangering Persons or Property: first offense (Forfeiture) 

— none; subsequent offense (within 4 years)(misdemeanor) 

— not more than 1 year in the county jail. §346.65(1)(b) 

Causing Bodily Harm (misdemeanor) — 30 days to 1 year

in the county jail. §346.65(3) 

Causing Great Bodily Harm-Felony532-90 days to 2 years 

and 3 months. §346.65(5) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None

Fine ($ Range): Endangering Persons or Property: first offense (Forfeiture) 

— $25 to $200; subsequent offense (within 4 

years)(misdemeanor) — not more than 1 year in county jail. 

§346.65(1)(b) 

Causing Bodily Harm (misdemeanor) — $300 to $2,000. 

§346.65(3) 

Causing Great Bodily Harm (Felony) — $600 to $2,000. 

§346.65(5) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via the courts. §343.30 

Suspension or Revocation: Based upon repeated violation of 

the traffic laws via a point system. §343.32(2)(a) 

Causing Great Bodily Harm-Revocation. §343.31(1)(a) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension via the courts — not more than 1 year. 

 §343.30(1) 

Suspension or Revocation via a point system-2 months to 1 

year. §343.32(3) and WAC Trans. 101.04 

Causing Great Bodily Harm — 1 year. §343.31(3)(a) 

 

531"Reckless driving" is defined as driving a vehicle so as to (1) endanger the safety or any person or property via negligent 

operation, (2) cause bodily harm to another via negligent vehicle operation, or (3) cause great bodily harm to another via 

negligent vehicle operation. §346.62(2), (3) and (4) 

532If a crime is punishable by imprisonment in one of the State's prisons, it is a felony. §939.60 
SPEED 2005 286

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Suspension via the courts — none. Note: Licensing action is 

discretionary. §343.30(1) 

Suspension or Revocation via a point system — none. 

Note: A person is eligible for occupational driving privileges. 

§343.32(6) 

Causing Great Bodily Harm — 1 year. §343.31(3)(a) 

Other: The above fines are double if the reckless driving offense 

occurs in a highway maintenance, construction area or utility 

work area. §346.65(5m) 

Inattentive Driving533: Civil Forfeiture. §§346.89(1) and 346.95(2) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): None

Mandatory Minimum Term: 

Fine ($ Range): $20 to $400. §346.95(2) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension via the courts. §343.30 

Suspension or Revocation: Based upon repeated violation of 

the traffic laws via a point system. §343.32(2)(a) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Suspension via the courts — not more than 1 year. 

§343.30(1) 

Suspension or Revocation via a point system-2 months to 1 

year. §343.32(3) and WAC Trans. 101.04 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: Suspension via the courts — none. Note: Licensing action is 

discretionary. §343.30(1) 

Suspension or Revocation via a point system — none. Note: 

A person is eligible for occupational driving privileges. 

§343.32(6) 

Other: N/A 

 

533Inattentive Driving: Driving a motor vehicle while "so engaged or occupied as to interfere with the safe driving of such 

vehicle." §346.89(1) 
287 SPEED 2005 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators534: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

traffic violations"535 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 

such violations within a 3-year period. §343.315(2)(f) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. 

§343.315(2)(f) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. 

§343.315(2)(f) 

 

534A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 15 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials requiring 

that the vehicle be placarded. §340.01(8) 535A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §343.315(2)(f)(1) 

and (3) 
SPEED 2005 288

JURISDICTION: WYOMING

General Reference: Wyoming Statutes Annotated 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is 

reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having 

regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing. §31-

5-301(a) 

Statutory Speed Limit: 75 mph on interstate highways §31-5-301(b)(iii) 

65 mph on other highways §31-5-301(b)(iv) 

30 mph in an urban district §31-5-301(b)(ii) 

20 mph in a school zone or crossing §31-5-301(b)(i) 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

may increase or decrease the above speed limits on the State 

highway system.536 §§31-5-301(c) and 31-5-302. The State 

highway system includes city streets that are designated as 

State highways. §24-1-127 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, local 

governments may increase or decrease the above speed limits 

on the highways or streets under their jurisdictions.537 §§31-5-

301(c) and 31-5-303(b) 

III. Based on investigations, the State or a local government 

may establish safe maximum speed limits for any bridges or 

elevated structures under their respective jurisdictions. §31-5-

305(a) and (b) 

Minimum Speed Limit: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed 

as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic. 

§31-5-304(a) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §31-5-201(b) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State or a 

local government may establish minimum speed limits on the 

highways or streets under their respective jurisdictions. §31-

5-304(b) 

Other: N/A 

 

536The State may also establish different highway speed limits (1) for different types of vehicles (e.g., persons who operate 

certain types of trucks may be required to drive these vehicles at a slower speed than those who operate other types of 

motor vehicles), (2) at different times of the day, (3) for various weather conditions or (4) for other factors bearing on safe

speeds. §31-5-302 

537However, a local government cannot increase a speed limit to >55 mph within an urban district and, except as noted, it 

cannot decrease the speed limit to <35 mph outside an urban district. However, in a "platted rural subdivision," a local 

government can reduce the speed limit to <35 mph. §31-5-303(a)(ii), (a)(iii) and (b) 
289 SPEED 2005 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law 

violations are misdemeanors. §31-5-1201(a) 

Note: Under §31-18-604, a commercial vehicle operator must 

comply with the maximum speed limits established under 

§31-5-301. Failure to comply with these speed limits will 

subject the operator to the sanctions provided for under §31-5-

1201. 

Other: N/A 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, 

 Etc.): I. Exceeding the 75 mph Speed Limit by ≥76 but ≤80 mph: 

None

II. Exceeding the 75 mph Speed Limit by >80 mph: None

III. Exceeding the 65 mph Speed Limit by ≥66 but ≤70 mph: 

None

IV. Exceeding the 65 mph Speed Limit by >70 mph: None

V. Other Speeding or Speed-related violations: first offense 

— not more than 20 days; second offense (within 1 year) — 

not more than 30 days; subsequent offenses (within 1 year) 

— not more than 6 months. §31-5-1201(b) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): I. Exceeding the 75 mph Speed Limit by ≥76 but ≤80 mph: 

$5 for each mph over the speed limit but not more than $25. 

§31-5-1201(d)(i) 

II. Exceeding the 75 mph Speed Limit by >80 mph: $35 but 

not more than the maximum fines for other speeding 

violations. §31-5-1201(d)(iii) 

III. Exceeding the 65 mph Speed Limit by ≥66 but ≤70 mph: 

$5 for each mph over the speed limit but not more than $25. 

§31-5-1201(d)(i) 

IV. Exceeding the 65 mph Speed Limit by >70 mph: $25

plus $3 for every mph in excess of 70 mph and $5 in court 

costs. §31-5-1201(d)(ii) 

V. Other Speeding or Speed-related Violations: first offense 

— not more than $200; second offense (within 1 year) — not 

more than $300; subsequent offenses (within 1 year) — not 

more than $500. §31-5-1201(b) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): I. Exceeding the 75 mph Speed Limit by >80: The minimum 

fine of $35 may be mandatory. 

II. Exceeding the 65 mph Speed Limit by >70 mph: The 

minimum fine of $25 may be mandatory. 

III. Other Speeding or Speed-related Violations: None
SPEED 2005 290

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

(continued) 

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: 

 Other: Special Fine for Heavy Vehicle Operators: When operating 

motor vehicles with a gross vehicle weight >26,000 lbs., 

persons who (1) exceed 80 mph on an interstate highway with 

a posted speed limit of 75 mph, (2) exceed 70 mph on other 

highways with a posted speed limit of 65 mph, or (3) exceed a 

construction zone speed limit by 6 mph are subject to a fine of 

$100. This fine appears to be mandatory. §§31-5-1201(g) 

and 31-18-704 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension Based Upon Repeated Violations of the Traffic 

Laws. §31-7-129(a)(i)538

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Not more than 12 months. §31-7-129(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: None. Licensing action is discretionary with the licensing 

agency. 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: Note: Court costs shall not be assessed against a person for 

violating either the 75 or 65 mph speed limit provisions, 

where the speed limit was not exceeded by more than 4 mph. 

§31-5-1201(d)(v) 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Speed or Acceleration Contest539: Misdemeanor. §§6-10-101 and 24-1-110 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 10 days. §24-1-110(c) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

Fine ($ Range): $10 to $100. §24-1-110(c) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and 

 Type of Action: Suspension Based Upon Repeated Violations of the Traffic 

Laws. §31-7-129(a)(i) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Not more than 12 months. §31-7-129(a) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 

538Driver licensing action shall not be based on speed limit law convictions where the offender was driving <80 mph in 

locations where the speed limit was between 65 and 75 mph. §31-5-1201(d)(iv). In addition, except for Commercial Motor 

Vehicle operators, a driver's record shall not contain a conviction either for exceeding the 75 mph speed limit where the 

offender's speed was ≤80 mph or for exceeding the 65 mph speed limit where the offender's speed was ≤70 mph. §31-5-

301(d) 

539The law prohibits a person from engaging in either a speed or acceleration contest without State or local government 

approval. §24-1-110(a) 
291 SPEED 2005 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: None. Licensing action is discretionary with the licensing 

agency. 

Other: N/A 

Reckless Driving: Misdemeanor. §§31-5-229 and 31-5-1201(a) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): Not more than 6 months. §31-5-1201(Mandatory 

Minimum Term of Imprisonment: None 

Fine ($ Range): Not more than $750. §31-5-1201(f) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension §31-7-128(a)(ii); subsequent offense (within 5 

years) — Revocation. §31-7-127(a)(iii) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — 90 days §31-7-128(a)(i); second offense

(within 5 years) — 6 months §31-7-128(a)(ii); subsequent 

offense (within 5 years) — 1 year. §31-7-127(a)(iii) and (b) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: First offense — 90 days §31-7-128(a)(i); second offense

(within 5 years) — 6 months §31-7-128(a)(ii); subsequent 

offense (within 5 years) — 1 year. §31-7-127(a)(iii) and (b) 

Other: Surcharge: An offender is assessed a surcharge of $100. 

This surcharge is in addition to any other sanction. §1-40-

119(a)(ii) 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators540: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

traffic violations"541 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 

such violations within a 3-year period. §31-7-305(f)

 

540A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §31-7-102(a)(viii) 541A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §31-7-

102(a)(xli)(A) and (B) 
SPEED 2005 292

JURISDICTION: UNIFORM VEHICLE CODE (UVC) 

General Reference: The UVC as revised by the National Committee on Uniform 

Traffic Laws and Ordinances in 2000 

Basis for a Speed Law Violation: 

Basic Speed Rule: No person shall drive a vehicle faster than is reasonable and 

prudent under the conditions and having regard to the actual 

and potential hazards then existing. §11-801 

Statutory Speed Limit: 55 mph in locations other than urban districts §11-802 

See Other below. 35 mph in urban districts §11-802 

Posted (Maximum) Speed Limit: I. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State 

may increase or decrease the above speed limits on the State 

highway system.542 §11-803 

II. Based on engineering and traffic investigations, a local 

government may increase or decrease the above speed limits 

on highways under its jurisdiction.543 §11-804(a) and (b) 

III. Based on an investigation, the State or a local government 

may establish maximum safe speed limits for any bridge or 

elevated structure under their jurisdiction. §11-807(b) and (c) 

Minimum Speed Rule: I. No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed 

as to impede the normal and reasonable movement of traffic. 

§11-805(a) 

II. A person driving at less than the normal speed of traffic 

shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as 

close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the 

roadway. §11-301(b) 

Posted (Minimum) Speed Limit: Based on engineering and traffic investigations, the State or a 

local government may establish minimum speed limits on the 

highways under their respective jurisdictions. §11-805(b) 

 Other: No person shall tow a house trailer >45 mph. §11-807(a) 

Adjudication of Speed Law Violations: 

Civil/Criminal Adjudication of Violation: All speed law violations are misdemeanors. §17-101(a) 

Other: N/A 

 

542The UVC also provides that the State may establish different highway speed limits (1) for different types of vehicles 

(e.g., persons who operate certain types of trucks may be required to drive these vehicles at a slower speed than those who 

operate other types of motor vehicles), (2) at different times of the day, (3) for various weather conditions, or (4) for other

factors bearing on safe speeds. §11-803 

543However, a local government can neither (1) increase the maximum speed limit within an urban district to more than 55 

mph nor (2) decrease the maximum speed limit outside of an urban district to less than 35 mph. §11-804(a)(2) and (3). In 

addition, no more than 6 speed limit alterations shall be made per street or highway mile and the difference between 

adjacent speed limits shall not be more than 10 mph. §11-804(e). Note: Any alteration of speed limits on State highways 

or extensions thereof by a local government must be approved by the State. §11-804(d) 
SPEED 2005 

Sanctions Following an Adjudication of a Speed Law Violation: 

Criminal Sanctions: 

 Imprisonment: 

 Term (Day, Month, Years, Etc.): First Offense — none; second offense (within 1 year) — 

none; third or Subsequent offense (within 1 year) — not more 

than 6 months. §17-101(b) 

 Mandatory Minimum Term: None544

 Fine: 

 Amount ($ Range): First Offense — not more than $200: second offense (within 1 

year) — not more than $300; third or Subsequent offense

(within 1 year) — not more than $500. §17-101(b) 

 Mandatory Min. Fine ($): None

Other Penalties: 

 Traffic School: The court may order an offender to complete a course in 

driver improvement. §17-103(a)(3) 

 Other: N/A 

Licensing Action: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension-Based on a point system Promulgated by 

Regulations. §6-207(a)(2) and (b) 

Term of License Withdrawal 

 (Days, Months, Years, etc.): Not more than 1 year. §6-212(a) 

Mandatory Minimum Term of 

 Withdrawal: Possible under a point system 

Miscellaneous Sanctions 

 Not Included Elsewhere: N/A 

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

Racing on Highway: Misdemeanor. §§11-809 and 17-101(a) 

Sanctions: 

Criminal Sanction: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — none; second offense (within 1 year) — none; 

third or Subsequent offense (within 1 year) — not more 

 than 6 months. §§11-809(d) and 17-101(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Term: None

 

544Unless the UVC specifically provides for a mandatory sanction, the court has the authority to suspend all or part of a fine 

or incarceration sentence. §17-103(c) 
SPEED 2005 294

Other Criminal Actions Related to Speeding: 

(continued) 

 Fine ($ Range): First offense — not more than $200; second offense (within 1 

year) — not more than $300; third or Subsequent offense

(within 1 year) — not more than $500. §§11-809(d) and 17-

101(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None3

Administrative Licensing Action: 

Licensing Authorized and Type of Action: Suspension. §6-207(a)(8). Suspension is also possible via the 

point system §6-207(b) 

Length of Term of 

 Licensing Withdrawal: Not more than 1 year. §6-212(a) 

Mandatory Action — Minimum 

 Length of License 

 Withdrawal: Possible under a point system 

Other: I. The court may order an offender to complete a course in 

driver improvement. §17-103(a)(3) 

II. Following a conviction for racing on the highway, the 

registrations of the vehicle or vehicles registered in the name 

of such person may be suspended. The UVC does not 

recommend a suspension period. §17-301 

Reckless Driving: Misdemeanor. §§11-909 and 17-101(a) 

Sanction: 

Criminal: 

Imprisonment (Term): First offense — 5 days to 90 days; second or Subsequent 

offense — 10 days to 6 months. §11-909(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Term 

 of Imprisonment: None3

 

Fine ($ Range): First offense — $25 to $500; second or Subsequent offense

— $50 to $500. §11-909(b) 

Mandatory Minimum Fine: None3

Administrative Licensing Actions: 

Type of Licensing Action 

 (Susp/Rev): Suspension via the point system. §6-207(a)(3) and (b) 

Length of Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Not more than 1 year. §6-212(a) 

Mandatory Term of License 

 Withdrawal Action: Possible under a point system. 

Other: The court may order an offender to complete a course in 

driver improvement. §17-103(a)(3) 
SPEED 2005 

Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Operators545: 

Grounds for Disqualification: A person is disqualified from operating a CMV if while 

driving such a vehicle he/she either (1) commits 2 "serious 

traffic violations"546 within a 3-year period or (2) commits 3 

such violations within a 3-year period. §6-514(e) 

Period of Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 60 

days; three serious violations (within 3 years) — not less than 

120 days. §6-514(e) 

Period of Mandatory Disqualification: Two serious violations (within 3 years) — 60 days; three 

serious violations (within 3 years) — 120 days. §6-514(e) 

 

545A person who has obtained a commercial driver's license (CDL) and is qualified to operate a commercial motor vehicle. 

A commercial motor vehicle is defined as a vehicle designed to carry either passengers or property and either has a gross 

vehicle weight of ≥26,001 lbs., is designed to transport 16 or more persons, or is transporting hazardous materials which 

requires that the vehicle be placarded in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. §6-500(17) 546A "serious traffic violation" includes exceeding the speed limit by 15 or more mph or reckless driving. §6-500(20)(a) 

and (b) 


DOT HS 810 572

April 2006