10 Facts You May Not Know About Speeding Tickets In Texas
It's happened to me before. I'm driving down the Texas highway with my favorite tune cranked up on the radio. The music sounds so good. The louder it gets, the faster I travel. Then, it happens. The reds and blues light up behind me. Bam. A speeding ticket.
It's almost inevitable. Texans get cited with speeding tickets every day. Turns out they're more than just pieces of paper. Sure, you can find facts about speeding tickets but I wanted to dig up some details you might not be aware of in Texas. Keep reading so you're better prepared for everything that speeding tickets can bring on.
LOOK: 10 FACTS YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT SPEEDING TICKETS IN TEXAS
Hefty Fines
Speeding tickets in Texas can be downright expensive. Fines vary depending on how much over the speed limit you were driving. Speeding 1 to 10 mph over the limit may result in a fine of up to $200 while exceeding 95 mph can lead to fines of up to $600.
School Zones and Construction Areas
Texas takes this seriously. Speeding in school zones and construction areas can result in even higher fines. Texas law does this to ensure the safety of children and construction workers. Fines can double, even triple in these areas. It's better to be safe than sorry.
Points System
Many don't know this but in Texas, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) has a point system for traffic violations. Speeding tickets can add points to your driving record, and if you accumulate too many points, your driver's license may be suspended.
Defensive Driving Option
I have friends who have done this to keep their driving records clean. If you receive a speeding ticket, you may have the choice to take a defensive driving course to dismiss the ticket. Completing an approved course not only can prevent the violation from affecting your driving record but insurance rates as well.
Impact on Insurance
Speaking of insurance, speeding tickets can really affect your auto insurance premiums. Insurance companies view speeding as a sign of risky driving and that can lead to rate increases.
Out-of-State Drivers
Beware. If you're an out-of-state driver and receive a speeding ticket in Texas, don't ignore it. Texas participates in the Driver License Compact, which means the violation is reported to your home state's DMV and could affect your driving record.
Radar and Laser Devices
Texas law enforcement does use radar and laser devices to measure vehicle speed accurately. Attempting to use devices that interfere with these signals is illegal and can lead to severe trouble.
Traffic School Limit
In Texas, you can only take defensive driving to dismiss a ticket once every 12 months. Be wise, as this can help keep your driving record clean.
Ticket Disputes
If you believe you were wrongly issued a speeding ticket, you do have the right to dispute it in court. Remember to gather any evidence you can. You'll need it.
Warrant for Arrest
Ignoring a speeding ticket can lead to a warrant for your arrest. If you receive a ticket, it's best to get it taken care of immediately to avoid more severe consequences.
Texas doesn't play when it comes to speeding tickets. They come with both financial and legal consequences. By knowing the facts mentioned above, you can make more informed decisions, save yourself money, and protect your driving record.
Don't learn the hard way. Keep that speed down to the limit and use caution on the road to keep you, your family, and others safe.
Speeding is just the tip of the iceberg. In Texas, your license plate can even get you ticketed. Look below to see what I mean.
