The driving laws in California are strict. A speeding ticket is serious, includes fines, and a possible license suspension. Speed limits should be observed always even when going downhill. It is the driver of the vehicle’s responsibility to maintain control of the vehicle, including its speed.

Speeding Downhill

Although a vehicle will pick up speed when traveling on a downward slope, speeding downhill is still speeding. When the posted limit or safe speed is exceeded by 1 to 15 mph, the result is a base ticket fine of $35; however, after state and county assessments, penalties, and fees are added the fine is closer to $235 to $250 depending on the county. A conviction for speeding between 16 and 25 mph over the limit will result in a base fine of $70, once again with the assessments, it will come to around $380. And, when a driver is ticketed for exceeding the speed limit by 26 or more but less than 100 miles per hour, the base fine is $100, which after penalties is almost $500.

Speeding Over 100 MPH

Speeding over 100 mph is a major infraction and if convicted the driver will receive two Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) points, which will stay on their record for seven years. There are many circumstances where the use of excessive speed may be justifiable, for instance, when there is a bona fide health emergency or to avoid a dangerous situation where you feel your life is threatened. However, an excuse like speeding downhill because you couldn’t control your vehicle is never acceptable in the eyes of the law.

Life is stressful. Drivers will sometimes take their aggressions out on the road. Other drivers, will get behind the wheel when they are under the influence of certain substances, illegal, prescription, and over-the-counter. These conditions can result in a driver forgetting that they share the road with thousands of other drivers. A self-centered approach to driving causes bad choices like excessive speeds. This puts people's lives at risk, and will always gain the attention of the CHP and other law enforcement officers (LEO).

According to CVC 22348 b, speeding over 100 mph on California freeways recklessly endangers other drivers and their passengers. Drivers who are cited and convicted of driving at these extreme speeds will be levied very harsh fines. A first offense will likely cost you $900-2600 in fines and penalties, and you could possibly lose your license for 30 days. The penalties increase dramatically with other offenses that have occurred within the previous five years. In addition, your auto insurance premiums will skyrocket! Speeding more than 100 mph is a major infraction that has a mandatory court appearance requires legal assistance, and consulting an attorney is recommended. But, you don’t need a law degree or to have passed the bar to know that speeding downhill is not a viable excuse.

Hanford Courthouse in Kings County

The Hanford Courthouse in Kings County is open every Monday through Thursday from 8:00 am until 4:00 pm, and Fridays from 8:00 am through 11:30 am. When a fine is received for speeding downhill, it may be paid online through the courthouse website. Any individual scheduled to appear in Hanford Traffic Court will be notified of the time and date by courtesy notice, but not receiving a courtesy notice is not an excuse for failure to resolve your ticket before the court date or appear in court.

The driving laws in California were established for safety. The consequences for breaking these laws can result in fines, jail time, and serious injuries.

Although, in Kings County you may be able to resolve your speeding downhill ticket online, by phone, by mail, or in person, the best possible outcome possibilities should be discussed with a traffic ticket attorney before you decide to just pay the fine. In most cases, you will see that paying the fine and increased insurance premiums or hiring a lawyer are about the same, but the outcome could be worlds apart.

Hire a Central Valley Attorney to Represent you in Kings County Traffic Court

Call Bigger & Harman, 661-349-9300 to inquire about the specifics of your ticket or email: attorney@markbigger.com.

Whatever the reason for getting a ticket, speeding downhill, didn’t see the 35-mph sign, school zone, or construction area we will look at every scenario and come up with the best possible defense. Give us a call and let’s talk it through, there’s no reason to be intimidated. We’re here for you.

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