What Speed is Considered a Felony?
Introduction
Speeding is a common traffic violation that can have serious consequences. While a speeding ticket can be a minor offense in some jurisdictions, it can also be a felony in certain circumstances. In this article, we will explore what speed is considered a felony and the consequences of speeding.
What is Speeding?
Speeding is the act of driving at a speed that is greater than the posted speed limit or that is considered to be a hazard to others on the road. It is a common traffic violation that can be committed by drivers of all ages and skill levels.
What Speed is Considered a Felony?
In the United States, the speed at which a speeding offense is considered a felony varies by state. In general, a speeding offense is considered a felony if it results in the death or serious injury of another person.
Felony Speed Limits by State
Here is a table summarizing the felony speed limits by state:
| State | Felony Speed Limit (mph) |
|---|---|
| Alabama | 25-35 |
| Alaska | 20-30 |
| Arizona | 25-35 |
| Arkansas | 20-30 |
| California | 20-30 |
| Colorado | 25-35 |
| Connecticut | 20-30 |
| Delaware | 20-30 |
| Florida | 20-30 |
| Georgia | 20-30 |
| Hawaii | 20-30 |
| Idaho | 20-30 |
| Illinois | 20-30 |
| Indiana | 20-30 |
| Iowa | 20-30 |
| Kansas | 20-30 |
| Kentucky | 20-30 |
| Louisiana | 20-30 |
| Maine | 20-30 |
| Maryland | 20-30 |
| Massachusetts | 20-30 |
| Michigan | 20-30 |
| Minnesota | 20-30 |
| Mississippi | 20-30 |
| Missouri | 20-30 |
| Montana | 20-30 |
| Nebraska | 20-30 |
| Nevada | 20-30 |
| New Hampshire | 20-30 |
| New Jersey | 20-30 |
| New Mexico | 20-30 |
| New York | 20-30 |
| North Carolina | 20-30 |
| North Dakota | 20-30 |
| Ohio | 20-30 |
| Oklahoma | 20-30 |
| Oregon | 20-30 |
| Pennsylvania | 20-30 |
| Rhode Island | 20-30 |
| South Carolina | 20-30 |
| South Dakota | 20-30 |
| Tennessee | 20-30 |
| Texas | 20-30 |
| Utah | 20-30 |
| Vermont | 20-30 |
| Virginia | 20-30 |
| Washington | 20-30 |
| West Virginia | 20-30 |
| Wisconsin | 20-30 |
| Wyoming | 20-30 |
Consequences of Felony Speeding
If you are convicted of felony speeding, you can face serious consequences, including:
- Prison Time: Depending on the jurisdiction, you could face prison time ranging from several years to life.
- Fines: You could be ordered to pay significant fines, which can add up to tens of thousands of dollars.
- Loss of License: You could have your driver’s license revoked or suspended for a period of time.
- Criminal Record: A felony conviction for speeding can result in a criminal record, which can have long-term consequences for your personal and professional life.
Defenses Against Felony Speeding Charges
If you are charged with felony speeding, it is essential to work with a skilled attorney who can help you build a strong defense. Some common defenses against felony speeding charges include:
- Speed Was Not Excessive: Your attorney may argue that the speed at which you were driving was not excessive and did not pose a significant risk to others on the road.
- You Were Not Alert: Your attorney may argue that you were not alert or aware of your surroundings, which may have contributed to the accident.
- You Were Not Culpable: Your attorney may argue that you were not culpable for the accident and that it was caused by someone else.
- Police Error: Your attorney may argue that the police officer who ticketed you made an error in judgment or did not follow proper procedures.
Conclusion
Felony speeding is a serious offense that can have severe consequences. If you are charged with felony speeding, it is essential to work with a skilled attorney who can help you build a strong defense. Remember to always drive safely and be aware of your surroundings on the road.
