There are designated speed limits on every road, and drivers must adhere to these limits. Driving too fast is not only breaking the law, but it can also result in expensive fines and other consequences that can impact your life in other ways, such as higher insurance rates. If you got a ticket for speeding in Hawaii, you may assume that the easiest and most reasonable course of action is to simply pay the ticket and move forward, but that is not always the case. You will benefit from learning about all the legal options available to you.
A speeding ticket can lead to points on your license, and you will have to pay the fine associated with the infraction. The amount that you could have to pay depends on the number of speeding tickets on your record, how fast you were going and other factors. In some cases, it is in the best interests of the driver to contest the ticket instead of immediately paying. This could allow you to avoid fines and other consequences associated with the ticket.
The consequences of speeding
A speeding ticket is more than just an expensive inconvenience. You may assume that simply paying the fine is the best course of action, but there may be a reason why that is not the case. By doing this, you are admitting guilt, which could expose you to penalties and other complications. If you determine that contesting the ticket in court is best, you will have 21 days to request a trial after you get the ticket. This will give you the opportunity to explain the mitigating circumstances that may have caused you to speed.
For a first-time speeding violation in Hawaii, drivers can face penalties that can be as much as $200 with additional charges for elevated speeds. The surcharges can be more if the driver was speeding through a construction zone or school zone. Excessive speeding is a separate misdemeanor offense, and it can include penalties such as license suspension, jail time and mandatory community service.
Should you fight your ticket?
If you got a ticket in Hawaii, you may be unsure of what you should do next. It may be in your interests to seek a professional opinion regarding your legal options. Fighting a ticket is not always the ideal solution for dealing with a ticket, but if it is for you, taking quick action is important.