Introduction:
Speeding is one of the very common driving offenses in Maine. While it can be tempting to speed, particularly when running late or hoping to get somewhere fast, it is essential to consider that speeding can have serious consequences. Sometimes, a speeding violation may result in a criminal conviction and even jail time. So what are the risks connected with getting caught how to get out of an oui in maine? Let’s have a look.
Maine’s Speed Limits
The speed limit on roads and highways throughout the state of Maine is posted and enforced by local police agencies. Generally, the maximum speed limit on residential streets is 25 miles each hour (mph). On highways and interstates, the most speed limit is 65 mph but may be lower based on road conditions. It is important to note why these speed limits are absolute—meaning that should you go over them, you will undoubtedly be regarded as being speeding regardless how even faster you are going than other vehicles on the road.
Consequences of Speeding Violations
Speeding violations are classified as either civil or criminal offenses, depending on how far above the posted speed limit you were going. Civil violations include any speeds up to 19 mph within the posted limit while criminal violations involve speeds 20 mph or more above the posted limit. For both kinds of violations, first-time offenders face fines ranging from $50-$1000 and points being added for their license (1-3 points for civil violations; 2-6 points for criminal convictions). Depending on your own driving record and other mitigating factors (such as whether you had been associated with an incident or had any previous driving offenses), additional penalties can also apply such as for instance license suspension or revocation, mandatory driver’s education classes, community service hours, probation, etc. Additionally, if your violation was particularly egregious (e.g., exceeding 90 mph), you could even face jail time.
Mitigating Factors
Should you choose receive a speeding ticket in Maine, you will find certain mitigating factors that may help lessen your punishment or keep it from being a criminal offense altogether. These include proof that you were unacquainted with your excessive speed at the time of your violation (e.g., unfamiliarity with area); evidence that mitigating circumstances were present such as heavy traffic or poor weather conditions; proof of significant financial hardship; good driving record; willingness to participate in traffic school; and/or not enough prior convictions/violations within past seven years.
Conclusion:
At the conclusion of the day, avoiding a criminal speeding conviction in Maine requires a combination of understanding road rules and limits in addition to being mindful about how fast you are going all the time when behind the wheel. If you do find yourself facing charges for excessive speeding however, there are many steps that may help lessen your sentence including presenting mitigating evidence and taking advantage of any available programs such as for example traffic school or driver’s education courses offered by local courts or agencies. Ultimately though every situation is exclusive so it’s very important to consult having an attorney who understands both traffic laws and your individual circumstances prior to making any decisions about how best to proceed with any potential legal action against you as a result of excessive speeding charges in Maine.
