What Happens If You Get a Speeding Ticket in Georgia?
Getting a speeding ticket in Georgia can be a stressful experience, especially if it’s your first time.
You may be asking “what happens if you get a speeding ticket in Georgia?” The answer is that it will depend based on your driving history, how fast you were accused of going over the speed limit, and how old you are.
But one thing we can tell you is – don’t just pay your ticket without doing some research on the consequences of a speeding ticket conviction.
A multitude of other questions may now flood your mind: How do I pay the speeding ticket? How long do I have to pay it? What are the fines like? Can I get it dismissed? And, what on earth is a “Georgia Super Speeder?”
Let’s delve into these topics to help you navigate this situation more effectively.
First Speeding Ticket in Georgia
If you’ve received your first speeding ticket in Georgia, don’t panic.
The consequences typically involve a fine, points added to your driving record, and potentially increased insurance premiums.
However, the exact penalties depend on how far over the speed limit you were driving and whether you were deemed a “Super Speeder” – which we’ll cover later on in this post.
If you are under 21, then you may face losing your license if you get 4 points or more on your record due to the speeding ticket.
We always recommend contacting an attorney to find out what your consequences are for a first time speeding ticket.
Sometimes, if you’re over 21 and have a clean record, attorneys may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor to have your ticket reduced so it doesn’t report, provided you complete defensive driving and pay a fine or do community service work.
But, each case is different, so contact a local traffic ticket attorney in the area where your ticket is pending – they are more likely to know the procedures for that specific courthouse, and can advise you accordingly.
How to Pay a Speeding Ticket in Georgia
Paying your speeding ticket in Georgia is usually straightforward.
You can generally pay online, in person, by mail, or over the phone.
The specific instructions should be on the citation you received.
But remember: paying the ticket is an admission of guilt, so if you’re considering contesting the ticket, consult with a legal professional before making a payment.
How Long Do You Have to Pay a Speeding Ticket in Georgia
Typically, you have 30 days from the date the ticket was issued to pay your speeding ticket in Georgia.
However, the timeframe may vary depending on the jurisdiction – that is, the courthouse where your ticket is pending.
It’s essential to pay your fine or show up to court for your case within the specified period to avoid additional penalties, such as license suspension.
Georgia Speeding Ticket Fines
The amount you’ll have to pay for a speeding ticket in Georgia depends on the specific circumstances of your case.
Factors such as your speed, the zone where you were caught speeding, and your driving history can all affect the fine amount.
The maximum fine allowed by law for a speeding ticket is $1,000 plus court costs, as speeding is a misdemeanor offense in Georgia. The minimum could be $100 or possibly less, plus court costs.
How to Get a Speeding Ticket Dismissed in Georgia
Getting a speeding ticket dismissed in Georgia is not easy, but it’s not impossible either.
You might be able to have your ticket dismissed by contesting it in court.
If you can prove that the officer made a mistake or that there’s insufficient evidence against you, the judge may dismiss your ticket.
However, this process can be complex and may require the assistance of an attorney.
Georgia Super Speeder
The term “Georgia Super Speeder” refers to a law designed to penalize drivers who exceed the speed limit significantly.
If you’re convicted of driving 75 mph on a two-lane road or 85 mph on any road or highway in Georgia, you’ll be classified as a Super Speeder.
This title comes with an additional $200 fee paid to the state of Georgia on top of the standard speeding ticket fines paid to the courthouse.
And if you fail to pay this $200 to the state, your license will be suspended, and you’ll have to pay even more to get it back.
So if you plead guilty to a Super Speeder, make sure to remit your fee as soon as possible to avoid even worse consequences.
Final Thoughts
Getting a speeding ticket in Georgia involves navigating a series of procedures and potential penalties.
Always remember to drive safely, respect speed limits, and consult with a legal professional if you find yourself facing a speeding ticket.