What is felony speeding in pa?

What is Felony Speeding in PA?

In Pennsylvania, speeding is a serious offense that can result in severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even criminal charges. Felony speeding, in particular, is a criminal offense that carries significant consequences. In this article, we will delve into the definition, consequences, and legal aspects of felony speeding in Pennsylvania.

What is Felony Speeding in PA?

Felony speeding in Pennsylvania is a criminal offense that is defined as operating a vehicle at a speed that endangers the life or safety of another person. Pennsylvania statute 75 Pa.C.S. §3733 states that a person commits the offense of felony speeding if they operate a vehicle at a speed that is 31 miles per hour or more over the speed limit on a highway or 15 miles per hour or more over the speed limit on a local or state road.

Consequences of Felony Speeding in PA

The consequences of felony speeding in Pennsylvania are severe and can include:

• Up to 7 years in prison: Felony speeding is a third-degree felony, which carries a maximum sentence of 7 years in prison.
• Fines: Felony speeding can result in fines of up to $15,000.
• License suspension: A conviction for felony speeding can result in a license suspension of up to 5 years.
• Increased insurance rates: A felony speeding conviction can result in increased insurance rates.
• Criminal record: A felony speeding conviction can result in a criminal record, which can have long-term consequences for employment, education, and other areas of life.

Who is Most Likely to be Charged with Felony Speeding in PA?

While anyone can be charged with felony speeding in Pennsylvania, certain individuals are more likely to be charged with this offense. These individuals include:

• Repeat offenders: Individuals who have a history of speeding violations are more likely to be charged with felony speeding.
• High-speed crashes: Individuals who are involved in high-speed crashes that result in serious injury or death are more likely to be charged with felony speeding.
• Racing or reckless driving: Individuals who engage in racing or reckless driving are more likely to be charged with felony speeding.
• Commercial drivers: Commercial drivers who are found to be speeding are more likely to be charged with felony speeding.

How is Felony Speeding Proven in PA?

To prove felony speeding in Pennsylvania, the prosecution must establish the following elements:

• The defendant was operating a vehicle: The prosecution must show that the defendant was operating a vehicle at the time of the alleged offense.
• The defendant was speeding: The prosecution must show that the defendant was speeding in excess of the posted speed limit.
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• The speeding endangered the life or safety of another person: The prosecution must show that the defendant’s speeding endangered the life or safety of another person.

Defenses to Felony Speeding in PA

While the consequences of felony speeding are severe, there are several defenses that can be raised in response to these charges. These defenses include:

• Reasonable speed: The defendant may argue that their speed was reasonable under the circumstances.
• Emergency: The defendant may argue that they were forced to speed due to an emergency situation.
• Lack of evidence: The defendant may argue that there is insufficient evidence to prove that they were speeding.
• Police error: The defendant may argue that the police made an error in measuring their speed.

Table: Speed Limits in Pennsylvania

Conclusion

Felony speeding in Pennsylvania is a serious offense that carries significant consequences. It is essential for individuals to understand the definition, consequences, and legal aspects of felony speeding in Pennsylvania. If you have been charged with felony speeding, it is crucial to consult with an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and raise effective defenses to these charges.