Speeding on a Bridge or Elevated Structure

Are you aware that there are rules for speeding on a bridge or elevated structure in the state of Georgia? While similar to your typical speeding violation, in that it comes with points on your license, due to the nature of the charge, you could be faced with even bigger fines and possibly even more severe penalties. If you’ve ever received a citation for this offense, you may be wondering what rights and options you have available to fight it. Read on to learn more!

Overview of Georgia Law on Speeding on a Bridge or Elevated Structure

In Georgia, speeding on any bridge or elevated structure should not be taken lightly - it is seen and treated by the state’s legal system in the same way as speeding on any normal road. Georgia's Department of Transportation is empowered to set speed limits on bridges and structures, thereby reducing the damage and deterioration that can result from high-speed travel. This means that often, the speed limits posted for a bridge or other structure will be lower than the speed limits before and after the bridge. But if you are not paying attention, you could miss it and get pulled over for going way over the speed limit. Therefore, it is important to understand and abide by Georgia law when traveling on such roads.

Consequences and Penalties for Violating the Law

The consequences for violating traffic laws related to speeding on a bridge or elevated structure in Georgia can be significant. The fines could be higher, due to the additional danger associated with such reckless behavior. As with normal speeding tickets, speeding on a bridge or structure is a misdemeanor and you could pay up to $1,000 in fines and spend up to 12 months in jail and/or on probation. You could also have to take defensive driving or do community service.

Additionally, a conviction of a speeding on bridge or elevated structure ticket comes with points on your driver's history, depending on how fast you were going over the posted bridge/structure speed limit.

• 14 mph or less over = 0 points
• 15 mph to 18 mph over = 2 points
• 19 mph to 23 mph over = 3 points
• 24 mph to 33 mph over = 4 points
• 34 mph or more over = 6 points

If you're under the age of 18, then getting 4 points or more in a 12 month period means your license is automatically suspended for at least 6 months. You have to take defensive driving and pay a reinstatement fee to get it back.

If you are under the age of 21, then one single 4 point offense will get your license suspended. That means if you're convicted of going 24 mph or more over the speed limit on any bridge or elevated structure in Georgia, your license will be suspended for at least 6 months. To get it back, you have to pay a reinstatement fee and take defensive driving course.

For all other drivers, 18 and up, if you accumulate 15 or more points on your driving record within a 24 month period, your license will be automatically suspended. You will have to pay a reinstatement fee and take a defensive driving course to get it back.

In addition to all this, there is the cost of time in going to court to have to fight this ticket. It is not uncommon to have to go to court more than once for a traffic ticket. In this case, if you want to fight it or try and get it reduced, it would not hurt to contact a local traffic ticket attorney, as they may be able to go to court for you and negotiate a deal.

Types of Speed Limit Signs Used on Bridges

When driving along a bridge or other elevated structure in Georgia, it's important to pay close attention to the speed limit signs posted along the roadway. Speed limit signs are posted with the intention of keeping you, and all other drivers on the road safe. Regulations indicating allowed speeds will vary depending each structure, taking into account its width, length, elevation and capacity. Drivers should expect to see maximum speed limits posted on white rectangular shaped signs displaying black letters and numerals while 'minimum' speed limits may appear on diamond shapes with yellow letters and numerals. Fines for speeding on bridges may be higher than regular speeding fines, so it's important to ensure that you always practice safe and legal traveling behavior.

Tips to Avoid Accidental Speeding

It is important to always be mindful of speed limits while driving. On bridges or elevated structures in Georgia, it is especially important to stick to the limits as speeding could result in higher fees and fines. Many sources provide helpful tips on reducing your speed, such as setting the cruise control and resisting the urge to accelerate when passing slower moving vehicles. Paying close attention to traffic signs and having knowledge of the local speed limit is also essential for avoiding accidental speeding altogether. It is important to know and adhere to traffic laws set in place for the safety of all motorists — if not for their own safety, then for the safety of their fellow drivers. It's simply not worth risking it!

Different Types of Speed Detection Devices Used by Law Enforcement

Georgia law enforcers can use various speed detection devices to identify drivers who exceed the posted speed limit on bridges and elevated structures. From basic radar devices to advanced laser guns, these can detect the speed even from a distance. Unlike regular speeding violations, which could lead to suspension of license or additional points on driver's record, typically imposed fines for speeding on bridges are almost two times higher than those in regular cases. Thus, it is always advised to abide by the relevant local laws and be conscious of the posted limits while traversing such areas.

How to Contest a Speeding Ticket If You're Cited for Driving too Fast on a Bridge or Elevated Structure

If you've been cited for driving too fast on a bridge or elevated structure in Georgia, understanding the law and legal procedure is key to successfully contesting your ticket. Although the offense of speeding on a bridge or elevated structure carries points just as regular speeding would, it could result in higher fines. So if you feel wrongfully accused, make sure to contact a legal professional experienced in traffic laws who can help you prepare your case and submit any applicable evidence that could support it. With the right guidance and preparation, a court could be persuaded to consider settling your case without accumulating points or resulting in an expensive fine.

To Sum It Up

In conclusion, it is important to be aware of the unique laws concerning speeding on bridges and elevated structures in Georgia. These laws can lead to more severe penalties than regular speeding infractions. By understanding what types of speed limit signs are used on these structures, drivers are better equipped to avoid accidental speeding and abide by the law. Furthermore, it is beneficial to know what types of detection devices law enforcement uses in order to catch drivers who disobey posted speed limits on bridges. Finally, if you have received a ticket for speeding on a bridge or elevated structure it is possible to contest it in court. Thanks for taking time out of your day to learn about the consequences and penalties for violating speed limits on bridges in Georgia. Be safe out there!