What Speed Limit is a Felony?
In the United States, speed limits are enforced by law enforcement agencies and can vary significantly from state to state. While speeding is a common traffic violation, it can also lead to serious consequences, including felony charges in some cases. In this article, we will explore what speed limit can result in a felony and what the penalties are for those who are convicted.
What is a Felony?
Before we dive into the specifics of speed limits and felonies, it’s essential to understand what a felony is. A felony is a type of crime that is punishable by more than one year in prison. Felonies are considered more severe than misdemeanors, which are crimes punishable by up to one year in jail. In the United States, felonies are divided into two categories: violent felonies and non-violent felonies.
Speed Limits and Felonies
Speed limits are enforced by law enforcement agencies, and exceeding those limits can result in traffic violations, fines, and even felony charges. The speed limit at which a person can be charged with a felony varies depending on the state and the circumstances of the case.
States with Felony Speed Limits
Some states have a specific speed limit at which a person can be charged with a felony. For example:
- California: In California, a person can be charged with a felony for speeding 90 mph or higher on a freeway or 70 mph or higher on a city street.
- Florida: In Florida, a person can be charged with a felony for speeding 85 mph or higher on a highway or 65 mph or higher on a city street.
- Texas: In Texas, a person can be charged with a felony for speeding 95 mph or higher on a highway or 75 mph or higher on a city street.
Other States
In states without a specific speed limit for felony charges, exceeding the posted speed limit by a certain amount can still result in a felony charge. For example:
- New York: In New York, a person can be charged with a felony for speeding 40 mph or more over the posted speed limit.
- Ohio: In Ohio, a person can be charged with a felony for speeding 35 mph or more over the posted speed limit.
Circumstances that Can Result in a Felony
In addition to exceeding the posted speed limit, there are other circumstances that can result in a felony charge. For example:
- Reckless driving: Engaging in reckless driving behavior, such as weaving in and out of lanes or driving aggressively, can result in a felony charge.
- Speeding in a school zone: Speeding in a school zone or near a school bus stop can result in a felony charge.
- Speeding while under the influence: Speeding while under the influence of drugs or alcohol can result in a felony charge.
Penalties for Felony Speeding
If you are convicted of a felony for speeding, the penalties can be severe. In addition to fines and imprisonment, you may also face:
- Loss of driving privileges: You may lose your driver’s license for a period of time or permanently.
- Community service: You may be required to perform community service as part of your sentence.
- Criminal record: A felony conviction for speeding can result in a criminal record that can affect your ability to find employment or obtain housing.
Conclusion
Speed limits are enforced by law enforcement agencies, and exceeding those limits can result in traffic violations, fines, and even felony charges. In some states, there is a specific speed limit at which a person can be charged with a felony, while in other states, exceeding the posted speed limit by a certain amount can result in a felony charge. In addition to exceeding the posted speed limit, there are other circumstances that can result in a felony charge, such as reckless driving or speeding while under the influence. If you are convicted of a felony for speeding, the penalties can be severe, including fines, imprisonment, and loss of driving privileges.
