Millions of drivers are pulled over for speeding each year. In 2017, more than 176,000 speeding tickets were issued in New Jersey alone. Odds are that even the most conscientious drivers are likely to get a speeding ticket or other traffic summons at some point. Because the financial cost of a speeding ticket in New Jersey can be very high, it is important to know the law as well as your rights in protecting your driving privileges.
New Jersey Laws Regarding Motor Vehicle Speed
The New Jersey speeding laws are described in statute 39:4-98. Unless otherwise posted on a roadway, the speed limits are as follows:
- 25 mph in a school zone, in the vicinity of a park or recreational facility, or in a business or residential district
- 35 mph in a suburban business or residential district
- 50 mph in all other locations
Some drivers make the mistake of assuming that the highway speed limit is always 55 mph unless otherwise posted. While that is true in many states, it is not the case in New Jersey. Other drivers may not be aware that they are driving in a school zone, as there are a number of schools in New Jersey that are located adjacent to highways or other busy roads. Therefore, the risk of getting a speeding ticket in New Jersey may be higher than you might expect. Also, a police officer can issue a speeding ticket even if the driver has not exceeded the speed limit if the car is approaching an intersection, going around a curve, or traveling in hazardous weather conditions.
Calculating the True Cost of Speeding Violations in New Jersey
The total cost of a traffic violation in New Jersey may be much more than the speeding ticket itself. Factors to consider in calculating the full cost include the following:
- Surcharges from points. You may get anywhere from 2 to 5 points on your license for speeding. If you get six or more points within a three-year period, you must pay a surcharge o $150 for the first six points and $25 per additional point.
- Insurance premiums. Speeding tickets will show up on your driving record, and your insurance company will likely raise your rates.
- Additional tickets. Police officers will often issue a ticket for careless or reckless driving at the same time they cite you for speeding. A reckless driving ticket carries a penalty of $50 to $500.
- Speeding ticket fine. Fines start at $85 for exceeding the speed limit by one to nine miles per hour, increasing incrementally to $260 for exceeding the speed limit by 35-39 miles per hour. Exceeding the posted speed limit by 40 mph or more requires a court appearance.
Fines may be doubled for speeding in a construction zone, safe corridor, or in a 65-mph area.
Know Your Rights If You Are Pulled Over for Speeding
If you are pulled over, remain in your car, keep your seatbelt buckled, and stay calm while talking with the police officer. Never admit guilt and do not say any more more than is absolutely necessary. If you believe the officer made a mistake, do not argue at the scene. Likewise, if you think you were speeding, resist the temptation to just pay the fine and be done with it. In many instances, the difference between innocence and guilt is not clear cut. You have the right to legal representation, and no matter what the circumstances are, you have a much greater chance at getting the fine reduced or the ticket dismissed entirely if you have a competent New Jersey lawyer by your side.
Haddonfield Traffic Violations Lawyers at the Law Offices of Agre & St. John Fight to Protect Your Driving Privileges
Our attorneys are well-equipped to fight for your driving privileges and ensure that one mistake does not ruin your driving record. We possess a deep understanding of New Jersey traffic laws and we know how to get tickets reduced or dismissed. From our office in historic Haddonfield, New Jersey, we assist drivers in Cherry Hill, Burlington County, Camden County, Cumberland County, Gloucester County, and Salem County. To schedule a confidential consultation with a knowledgeable Haddonfield traffic violations lawyer at the Law Offices of Agre & St. John, please contact us online or call 856-428-7797 today.
