Speeding Tickets & Fines

Have you been caught speeding?

 

Understanding the Law

 

In England and Wales, speeding is a common but can often have serious consequences for people.

 

The law sets specific speed limits for different types of roads and vehicles, and exceeding these limits can result in a speeding ticket and fines.

 

The relevant legislation includes the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 and the Road Traffic Act 1988.

 

Speed Limits

 

Speed limits in England and Wales vary depending on the type of road and vehicle. The general speed limits are:

 

- Built-up areas: 30 mph (48 km/h)

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- Single carriageways: 60 mph (96 km/h)

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- Dual carriageways: 70 mph (112 km/h)

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- Motorways: 70 mph (112 km/h)

 

Different limits may apply for certain vehicles, such as heavy goods vehicles and vehicles towing trailers.

 

Penalties for Speeding

 

If you are caught speeding, you may receive a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) or be summoned to court, depending on the severity of the offence.

 

The penalties for speeding can include:

 

Fixed Penalty Notice:

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  - A £100 fine

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  - 3 penalty points on your driving licence

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Court Summons:

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  - A fine of up to £1,000 (or £2,500 if caught speeding on a motorway)

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  - Between 3 to 6 penalty points on your driving licence

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  - Possible disqualification from driving

 

In some cases, instead of penalty points, you may be offered the option to attend a speed awareness course. This course aims to educate drivers about the dangers of speeding and promote safer driving habits.

 

Defending Against Speeding Charges

 

If you receive a speeding ticket or are summoned to court for speeding, it is crucial to seek legal advice immediately. An experienced lawyer can assess the specifics of your case and explore possible defences. These might include:

 

Challenging the accuracy of the speed measurement

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With the increasing number of speed cameras and speed detection devices, even the most cautious motorist can be at risk of penalty points and possible disqualification.

 

Whilst speed cameras and speed detection devices are usually reliable, there are circumstances in which you might be able to avoid prosecution or conviction for speeding. For example, there are instances where the speed detection devices used by police haven’t been correctly operated or calibrated.

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- Proving that the speed limit signs were not visible or clear

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- Proving that the speed limit you have been accused of breaking may not actually be in force, or the correct signage may not have been displayed.

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- Demonstrating that there were mitigating circumstances that justified your speed

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Even if you were speeding, there may be the grounds to put forward a “special reasons” argument to avoid penalty points. This can apply if, for example, you were driving in an emergency.

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Joe Rawlings has helped many people avoid penalty points and disqualifications.

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Get in touch with Joe Rawlings today

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If you have been accused of speeding, seek expert help and avoid penalty points and worse a driving disqualification.

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Joe Rawlings will consider all the evidence against you, and can advise you on any potential defences you may have.

 

Contact Joe today for expert legal assistance.

 

Joe specialises in defending speeding offences and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.