Speeding over 100 mph in Inyo County, CA, is a major infraction with significant consequences, including a fine between $859 and $2,137, a possible 30-day driver’s license suspension, and two negligent operator treatment system (NOTS) points that will stay on your  motor vehicle driving record (MVR) for up to seven years.  The normal mandatory court appearance is waived in Inyo County. But if people pay off the fine, insurance costs will normally double or triple.

Understanding the best practices can help you navigate this challenging situation more effectively.

The Don'ts of Speeding Over 100 MPH

Don’t Ignore the Ticket

Ignoring a speeding ticket for driving over 100 mph can lead to severe consequences, including higher fines, license suspension, and even a bench warrant, as a failure to appear is a misdemeanor crime in CA. It's crucial to take the ticket seriously and respond promptly.

Don’t Assume You Can Handle It Alone

One of the biggest mistakes drivers make is thinking they can handle the legal process on their own. Speeding over 100 mph requires a mandatory court appearance in other counties, but even in Inyo the consequences of a conviction for this violation is severe. Hiring an attorney can save you time and money because otherwise, you might have to take one or two days off from work to attend the arraignment and plead not guilty, then come back for the trial.

Likewise, at the trial, the judge will doubt your understanding of the severity of the charge, as if you are convicted, your auto insurance premium will likely double or triple. Furthermore, if you get tongue-tied or have stage fright, the judge might not give you ample time to recover because they typically have several tickets to resolve.

Traffic attorneys represent drivers in traffic court on a near-daily basis; they’re used to the procedures and know the judges and law enforcement officers. They know the correct documents needed to get speed-measuring device calibration records and other pertinent documents needed to present a defense.    

Don’t Be Unprepared in Court

Going to court unprepared can lead to unfavorable outcomes. You risk higher penalties without a proper understanding of traffic laws and courtroom procedures. The wisest option is not to appear in court at all—hire a traffic attorney to represent you and leave the worries to them. 

Don’t Forget the Long-Term Consequences

Speeding over 100 mph can have a long-term effect on your driving record and insurance premiums. It's essential to consider these long-term consequences when dealing with the ticket. A conviction for speeding over 100 mph will stay on your MVR for up to seven years, which means your auto insurance premiums can be significantly higher for years, costing you thousands of dollars extra.

The Dos of Speeding Over 100 MPH

Do Hire an Attorney

Hiring an attorney is crucial because it has a mandatory court appearance by you or an attorney. An attorney can represent you in court, potentially saving you time and money. This way, you don’t have to take time off work for possible multiple court appearances.

Do Gather Evidence

Collect any evidence that might support your case. This evidence could include dashcam footage, GPS records, or witness statements. The more evidence you have, the stronger your defense will be. Discuss these possibilities with your attorney.

Do Understand Your Rights 

Knowing your legal rights is essential when dealing with a speeding ticket. An attorney can help you understand these rights and ensure they are protected throughout the legal process.

Do Be Honest with Your Attorney

Provide your attorney with all the details of your case. Being honest will help them build the best possible defense for you.

The Benefits of Hiring a Traffic Attorney to Resolve Your Case

Possible Reduced Speed or Fine

An experienced attorney can negotiate with the judge to reduce your speed below 100 mph. This reduction can lead to lower fines and fewer points on your driving record. Plus, it could make you eligible for traffic violator school, which could make your conviction confidential from your insurance company.

Ticket Dismissal (No Guarantees)

A few technicalities could warrant dismissal, and a knowledgeable and experienced attorney knows those and can request a dismissal at the right time. In some cases, an attorney can get your ticket dismissed entirely. This outcome is ideal as it avoids fines, points on your record, and potential license suspension.

Traffic Violator School

Although traffic violator school is not authorized for speeding over 100 mph, if your speed is reduced below 100 mph, an attorney might negotiate for you to attend traffic violator school. Completing this course can keep your conviction confidential from your insurance company and keep your premium stable unless you have another traffic violation conviction.

In conclusion, dealing with a speeding ticket for driving over 100 mph in Inyo County, CA, requires careful consideration and action. By hiring a traffic attorney, you can navigate the legal process more effectively, potentially reducing penalties and protecting your driving record. Let us handle your case while you focus on your life and work. 

Ask Bigger & Harman About Speeding Over 100 MPH in Inyo, CA

When facing a speeding 100+ mph ticket in Bishop or Independence Courthouse in Inyo County, CA, call Bigger & Harman, APC, at (661) 349-9300. 

Or, use the handy contact form to schedule a free consultation or email attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.

Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.

References:

The CA Driver Handbook English y Español.

CA VC Section 22348, Speed Laws.