What is Considered Criminal Speeding in Arizona?
Overview
Criminal speeding, also known as extreme reckless driving, is a serious offense in Arizona that carries severe consequences, including jail time, fines, and a suspended or revoked license. Understanding what constitutes criminal speeding in Arizona is essential to avoid potential legal problems.
What is Criminal Speeding in Arizona?
In Arizona, criminal speeding is defined as driving at a speed that is 20 or more miles per hour above the posted speed limit when the driver is operating a vehicle in a construction zone, school zone, or residential area. Additionally, driving at a speed of 40 or more miles per hour above the posted speed limit on a highway or public road, regardless of the circumstances, is also considered criminal speeding.
Construction Zone Restrictions
In Arizona, drivers are subject to increased speeding restrictions in construction zones, which are marked with yellow signs that read "Construc. Zone Next 3 Miles." Construction zones are designated as a 5-mile-per-hour reduction in speed, so if the posted speed limit is 65 mph, drivers are required to maintain a speed of no more than 60 mph within the construction zone.
School Zone Restrictions
In Arizona, school zones are designated by signage that indicates the zone speed limit. Typically, school zones have a 15-mph speed limit during school hours (when children are present) and a 25-mph speed limit when school is not in session.
Residential Area Restrictions
In Arizona, residential areas are generally designated as 25-mph zones. However, posted speed limits in residential areas may be lower, so it is essential to be aware of the specific posted speed limit.
What are the Consequences of Criminal Speeding in Arizona?
The consequences of criminal speeding in Arizona depend on the circumstances and prior offenses. The possible consequences include:
- Felony charges: In the event of a fatality or serious injury caused by criminal speeding, the offender may be charged with a felony.
- Prison time: In felony cases, offenders can be sentenced to prison time ranging from 1-4 years.
- Fines: Criminal speeding cases can result in fines ranging from $2,000 to $10,000.
- License suspension or revocation: In addition to fines and possible prison time, criminal speeding offenders may face license suspension or revocation.
Table: Criminal Speeding Consequences in Arizona
| Consequence | Fine | Prison Time | License Suspension |
|---|---|---|---|
| Misdemeanor | $2,000 – $4,000 | Up to 5 years | Up to 1 year |
| Felony | $5,000 – $10,000 | 1-4 years | 2-5 years |
| Habitual Offender | $5,000 – $10,000 | 1-5 years | 5 years |
Defenses and Exceptions
While criminal speeding is considered a serious offense, there are certain defenses and exceptions that may apply. Some of these include:
- Mistake of fact: If the driver was not aware of the speed limit or believed it was safe to exceed it, they may have a defense.
- Medical emergency: In the event of a medical emergency that required immediate attention, drivers may have a defense against criminal speeding charges.
- Law enforcement error: If the police officer misread the speed limit or made an error in administering the traffic stop, a defense may be possible.
Conclusion
Criminal speeding is a serious offense in Arizona that carries significant consequences, including jail time, fines, and license suspension or revocation. Understanding what constitutes criminal speeding in Arizona and being aware of the posted speed limits in various zones can help drivers avoid potential legal problems.
