What is Felony Speeding in Oregon?
Oregon is known for its scenic highways and winding roads, but with great scenery comes great responsibility. Excessive speeding can be a serious offense in the state, and in some cases, it can even lead to felony charges. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of felony speeding in Oregon, exploring what constitutes a felony speeding offense, the penalties associated with it, and what you can do if you’re facing charges.
What is Felony Speeding in Oregon?
In Oregon, felony speeding is defined as driving at a speed that is 25% or more above the maximum speed limit on a highway or 30% or more above the maximum speed limit on a road or street. This means that if you’re driving on a highway with a speed limit of 65 mph, and you’re going 81.25 mph or faster, you could be charged with felony speeding.
The Law
Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) 811.705 defines the specific circumstances under which a speeding offense can be considered a felony. The statute states that a person commits the offense of felony speeding if they operate a vehicle on a highway or road at a speed that is 25% or more above the maximum speed limit and:
- The person has been convicted of a speeding offense two or more times within the past 10 years
- The person has been convicted of a speeding offense that resulted in the death or serious physical injury of another person
- The person has been convicted of a felony involving the operation of a motor vehicle
Penalties for Felony Speeding in Oregon
If you’re convicted of felony speeding in Oregon, you could face serious penalties, including:
- Fine: Up to $2,500
- Imprisonment: Up to 1 year
- License Suspension: Up to 3 years
- Vehicle Impoundment: Your vehicle could be impounded for up to 30 days
Consequences of a Felony Speeding Conviction
A felony speeding conviction can have significant consequences on your life, including:
- Loss of Driving Privileges: You may lose your driver’s license for an extended period or even permanently
- Increased Insurance Rates: Your insurance rates may increase significantly
- Employment and Education Consequences: A felony conviction can impact your employment and education opportunities
- Criminal Record: A felony conviction will remain on your criminal record, potentially affecting your future opportunities
Defenses Against Felony Speeding Charges
If you’re facing felony speeding charges, there are several defenses you can raise, including:
- Reasonable Speed: If you were driving at a reasonable speed given the conditions, you may be able to argue that your speed was not excessive
- Speed Limit Signs: If there were no speed limit signs or they were not clearly visible, you may be able to argue that you were not aware of the speed limit
- Emergency Circumstances: If you were driving in emergency circumstances, such as a medical emergency, you may be able to argue that your speed was necessary to avoid harm
Table: Felony Speeding Offenses in Oregon
| Speed | Location | Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| 25% or more above max speed limit | Highway | Felony offense |
| 30% or more above max speed limit | Road or street | Felony offense |
| 25% or more above max speed limit | Highway | Felony offense (with prior convictions or serious injury/death) |
Conclusion
Felony speeding in Oregon is a serious offense that can have significant consequences. If you’re facing felony speeding charges, it’s essential to understand the law and the potential penalties associated with it. By understanding the defenses available and the consequences of a conviction, you can make informed decisions about your case and work towards a positive outcome. Remember, excessive speeding is a serious offense that can put not only your life at risk but also the lives of others on the road.
