Most people don’t intend to speed, but they can get carried away on the open road, especially if they’re running late. Unfortunately, that’s a mistake that can have serious consequences if the police catch you and give you a speeding ticket. Here’s a closer look at laws regarding driving too fast in North Carolina.

Types of Speeding Tickets in North Carolina

1. Speeding Over the Posted Limit

Anytime you drive faster than the posted limit, you’re facing the possibility of getting a speeding ticket. Speed limits vary, so it’s important to pay attention to signs. Unless otherwise posted, city speed limits are 35 miles per hour, county roads are 55 MPH, and state highways are 70 MPH.

Traveling just a few MPH over the posted speed limit may be a traffic infraction, resulting in fines and points on your license. However, driving 15 MPH over the speed limit or faster than 80 MPH is considered a Class 3 misdemeanor, carrying a penalty of up to 20 days in jail and a $200 fine.

2. Speeding in a School or Work Zone

If you get a speeding ticket for traveling too fast in a school or construction zone, you’ll face the same penalties as with any speeding infraction. There’s a difference in the fine, however.

For speeding in a school or work zone, you’ll be facing a fine of $250. Additionally, speeding in a school zone will result in additional points being added to your driving record.

3. Racing

In North Carolina, the law refers to illegal racing as a speed competition, which is further divided into two subgroups. Since both of these categories are misdemeanors rather than mere tickets, you may need to consult an experienced traffic ticket lawyer to help with your defense.

A planned or pre-arranged speed competition is a Class 1 misdemeanor and will result in a three-year suspension of your driver’s license. The judge may also order that your vehicle be seized.

As a Class 2 misdemeanor, an unplanned speed competition carries a penalty of a one-year license suspension.

4. Reckless Driving

Even if you’re not speeding, reckless driving can include DUI, disobeying traffic laws, or operating a vehicle in any manner that poses a danger to others. It’s possible to get a ticket for both speeding and reckless driving.

A conviction for reckless driving carries a penalty of up to 90 days imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000, and a possible license suspension. Since this is a Class 2 misdemeanor, you may require the expertise of a defense attorney.

Even minor speeding tickets can have expensive repercussions. If you’ve been issued a citation or charged with a crime, it’s important to be prepared for your court appearance. Thomas W. Smothers, Attorney at Law is located in High Point, NC, and has more than 25 years of experience in defending clients against traffic violations and criminal charges, so you can trust that his legal team has the skills to help you. To schedule a consultation to discuss your case, visit their website or call (336) 885-1240.