If you are caught driving 20 mph over the speed limit in North Carolina, you will incur a $100 fine. This penalty falls within the range for exceeding the speed limit by 16 to 20 mph.
Understanding Speeding Penalties in North Carolina
Speeding tickets in North Carolina carry not only fines but can also lead to points on your driving record and potentially increase your car insurance premiums. The exact fine amount is determined by how much you exceed the posted speed limit.
Fines for Speeding
The fine structure for speeding in North Carolina varies depending on the severity of the offense:
| Speed Over Limit | Fine Amount |
|---|---|
| 11 to 15 mph | $25 |
| 16 to 20 mph | $100 |
| 21 to 24 mph | $150 |
| 25 mph or more | $250 |
It's important to note that these fines are general guidelines and may not include court costs, which can add a significant amount to the total cost of the ticket.
Beyond the Fine: Additional Consequences
A speeding ticket for going 20 mph over the limit can have several other repercussions beyond the immediate fine:
- Driving Record Points: Points are assessed against your driving record, which can impact your driving privileges. Accumulating too many points can lead to a driver's license suspension.
- Insurance Premium Increases: Your car insurance provider will likely see a speeding ticket as an increased risk, which can result in a significant hike in your insurance rates for several years.
- Court Costs: In addition to the fine, you will typically be responsible for court costs associated with the citation.
- License Suspension: While less common for a single speeding offense of 20 mph over, repeated speeding violations or particularly egregious speeding (e.g., in a work zone or school zone) can lead to a driver's license suspension.
- Traffic School: In some cases, you might be offered the option to attend traffic school to reduce points or avoid other penalties, though this isn't always available or advisable depending on your driving history.
What to Do If You Get a Speeding Ticket
If you receive a speeding ticket, consider the following steps:
- Understand the Citation: Carefully read your ticket to understand the charges, court date, and options for payment or appearance.
- Evaluate Your Options:
- Pay the Fine: This typically means admitting guilt and accepting the associated points and potential insurance increases.
- Plead Not Guilty: You can contest the ticket in court, which may involve hiring a traffic attorney. An attorney might be able to negotiate for a reduced charge, such as a prayer for judgment continued (PJC), or a reduction to a non-moving violation, which could help minimize points and insurance impact.
- Seek Legal Advice: Especially if you have previous violations or if the ticket is for a significant speed, consulting a North Carolina traffic attorney is often recommended to understand your best course of action and protect your driving record and insurance rates.
Understanding the full implications of a speeding ticket, beyond just the fine, is crucial for managing its impact on your driving record and finances.
