What is Felony Speeding in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma is known for its wide open roads and scenic highways, but for those who speed excessively, it can be a recipe for disaster. In Oklahoma, speeding is considered a serious offense, and in some cases, it can even be charged as a felony. But what exactly is felony speeding in Oklahoma, and what are the consequences?
What is Felony Speeding?
Felony speeding in Oklahoma is defined as driving at a speed that is 25% or more above the posted speed limit in a school zone, construction zone, or area with reduced speed limits. This means that if you are driving at a speed that is 25% or more above the posted speed limit in these areas, you can be charged with a felony.
Consequences of Felony Speeding
The consequences of felony speeding in Oklahoma are severe and can include:
- Up to 10 years in prison
- Fines of up to $5,000
- Suspension of your driver’s license
- Increased insurance rates
- Potential for mandatory community service
How is Felony Speeding Charged?
Felony speeding is typically charged when a driver is involved in an accident that results in serious injury or death. In these cases, the driver can be charged with felony speeding and potentially other charges such as manslaughter or vehicular homicide.
Examples of Felony Speeding
Here are some examples of when felony speeding might be charged:
- Driving 85 mph in a 30 mph school zone
- Driving 95 mph in a 35 mph construction zone
- Driving 120 mph on a highway with a posted speed limit of 60 mph
What are the Defenses to Felony Speeding?
While felony speeding is a serious offense, there are still defenses that can be used to challenge the charges. Some of these defenses include:
- The officer did not follow proper procedure
- The radar gun was not properly calibrated
- The driver was not actually speeding
- The driver was not aware of the speed limit
What are the Penalties for Felony Speeding?
The penalties for felony speeding in Oklahoma vary depending on the circumstances of the case. Here are some of the possible penalties:
| Penalty | Description |
|---|---|
| Up to 10 years in prison | This is the maximum penalty for felony speeding in Oklahoma. |
| Fines of up to $5,000 | This is the maximum fine for felony speeding in Oklahoma. |
| Suspension of driver’s license | The driver’s license can be suspended for a period of time or revoked permanently. |
| Increased insurance rates | The driver’s insurance rates may increase significantly after a felony speeding conviction. |
| Mandatory community service | The driver may be required to perform community service as part of their sentence. |
What Can You Do to Avoid Felony Speeding?
While felony speeding is a serious offense, there are steps you can take to avoid it. Here are some tips:
- Always follow the posted speed limit
- Be aware of your surroundings and adjust your speed accordingly
- Use cruise control when driving on highways
- Avoid distractions while driving
- Keep a safe distance from other vehicles
Conclusion
Felony speeding is a serious offense in Oklahoma, and the consequences can be severe. If you are charged with felony speeding, it is important to work with an experienced attorney to defend your rights and challenge the charges. Remember to always follow the posted speed limit and be aware of your surroundings while driving to avoid the risk of felony speeding.
