Exceeding Max Speed by 31 or More MPH

Did your cruising speed catch you off guard, or were you rushing to reach your final destination? Suddenly, a police officer pulls you over, handing you a traffic citation for exceeding the maximum speed limit by 31 mph or more. Speeding citations are a frequent source of frustration in Pennsylvania, carrying serious consequences that go well beyond simple fines or points on your driving record. You face increased auto insurance premiums and the terrifying risk of losing your driver’s license. That is where Logue Law Group steps in to assist you. Our renowned legal team is here to minimize your legal troubles and, when possible, eliminate them entirely. Trust the most skilled professionals in Mercer County and the surrounding areas.

Facts About Speeding

Driving faster than the posted limit is strictly forbidden in Mercer. If you are traveling on an expressway or street lacking a visible sign, you must follow these state guidelines:

• Expressways: 55 MPH
• Non-residential streets: 35 MPH
• Residential streets: 25 MPH

Typically, you must be driving at least 6 MPH above the limit to receive a citation. However, if you are passing through a school zone, driving just 1 MPH over the restriction can lead to a ticket. Navigating these specific rules is complex, which is why consulting a knowledgeable Mercer criminal lawyer can be highly beneficial for your case.

Exceeding the Maximum Speed by 31 or More MPH

Getting ticketed for driving 31 MPH or more above the limit is classified as an excessive speeding offense. When this occurs, attending a mandatory PennDOT hearing is inevitable. Failing to appear will automatically trigger a harsh 60-day license suspension.

At the PennDOT hearing, the official examiner may impose a 15-day license suspension or require a driving road test. Furthermore, five points will be added to your official driving record. Fortunately, having a trusted Mercer DUI attorney by your side helps you navigate this stressful process and work to minimize the severity of the penalties.

Ways Police Measure Your Speed

• An officer follows your vehicle, matching its pace against their calibrated speedometer. They are required to trail you for at least 3/8 of a mile before taking action.
• Police use various tools, including airplanes, to monitor the distance your car travels, relaying data to ground units in what is known as a Manual Speed Trap.
• Manual speed traps frequently use a VASCAR (Visual Average Speed Computer and Recorder) device. However, these machines have proven unreliable for distances under 500 feet. You generally cannot be charged with speeding in zones of 55 MPH or lower unless you were exceeding the limit by 10 MPH or more, as measured by a VASCAR device. A dedicated Mercer criminal lawyer can help you challenge this specific evidence.
• Radar guns are another common measurement method. In Pennsylvania, only state troopers are authorized to use radar guns to catch speeding motorists.
• Automatic speed traps use advanced technology to minimize human error. Transmitters placed on both sides of the roadway calculate speed and send the readings directly to a computer inside the police patrol car.

Steps to Take if Pulled Over

• Be polite and highly respectful to the officer.
• Avoid arguing or showing any signs of anger.
• Turn off the ignition, but ensure you remain seated inside the vehicle.

Traffic Ticket Lawyer

If you receive a ticket for surpassing the maximum limit by 31 MPH or more, our dedicated legal team is ready to help you challenge the evidence and determine the best defense strategy. Contact an experienced Mercer DUI attorney at Logue Law Group today by calling 412.387.6901 to discuss your options.