What Does a Speeding Ticket Cost in Minnesota?
9 months ago by Justin M. Schiks
There are many reasons that drivers speed, but is often the result of running behind schedule. While we have all gone a little too fast at times, speeding can carry severe consequences.
If you have received a speeding ticket, you need the counsel of an experienced criminal defense attorney in Woodbury, Minnesota.
What is Considered Extreme Speeding?
In 2022, approximately 129 motorists died in speed-related crashes in Minnesota. With speeding being a major issue, the State does not shy away from prosecuting this offense.
If you are found traveling at 100 miles per hour or faster, you could face severe consequences. According to Minnesota Statute §169.14, a motorist driving faster than 100 miles per hour will face license revocation for at least six months.
Since extreme speeding is a petty misdemeanor, you will also face a hefty fine. Minnesota law doubles a typical speeding violation fine if you are driving at 20 miles per hour over the speed limit. For motorists driving in excess of 100 miles per hour, you can expect to pay a fine between $300-500.
The six-month time period could be lengthened if there are other factors at play. These may include:
- Injuring others
- Damage another person’s vehicle or property
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
When is Extreme Speeding Considered Reckless Driving?
Minnesota law defines reckless driving as any “person who drives a motor vehicle while aware of and consciously disregarding a substantial and unjustifiable risk that the driving may result in harm to another or another’s property.”
For a reckless driving charge, a prosecutor must prove that not only were you driving at an excessive speed, but that you were a risk to others and you disregarded the harm it may cause others. In order to build a strong case, the prosecutor will need evidence that you were making a choice to ignore the harm you could potentially cause to others.
Reckless driving is a misdemeanor. If you are charged with reckless driving, you could spend up to 90 days in prison and be slapped with a $1,000 fine. If you already have prior traffic infractions, you could lose your license for much longer than six months.
How Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Help?
An experienced criminal defense lawyer will know the evidence that is need for a prosecutor to pursue your case.
A Woodbury, Minnesota criminal defense lawyer knows state law and will review the facts of your case to determine if you were charged appropriately. A criminal defense lawyer will ask for testing verification. For example, a lawyer will question the accuracy of a radar detector or breathalyzer test.
Another gray area is prosecuting someone based on behavior. While it is simple to prove someone was driving at an excessive speed, it is more complicated to show that someone was behaving recklessly.
A police officer may have only circumstantial evidence that implies you were driving recklessly. A criminal defense lawyer will be able to find any “holes” in the prosecutor’s case.
A Woodbury, MN Criminal Defense Lawyer Advocating for You
If you were charged with excessive speeding, you need a legal defense team that you can trust. Attorney Justin M. Schiks and Molli Meyer can help you navigate the difficult process of litigation. Contact JS Defense, PA today to schedule your free case evaluation.
