How Much Is a 90 MPH Speeding Ticket in California?

Considering that the maximum speed limit on any roadway in California is 70 mph, you were doing at least 20 mph over the speed limit, and possibly more if you weren't on an interstate highway with a 70 mph speed limit. This will be an expensive matter, and you may be lucky not to face felony speeding charges.

Understanding California Speeding Fines

California does not issue speeding tickets based on speed itself but rather the amount over the speed limit. If you were driving at 90 mph in a 65 mph zone, the smallest possible speeding ticket, or the base fine, would be $70. The courts can add additional fines, raising the total well above $400.

Factors Influencing the Fines

The amount of the fine depends on where you were pulled over. In residential or school zones, it can be much higher. Judges have significant discretion, and the fine can increase significantly. For example, if you are driving 90 mph in a 15 mph school zone, the consequences would be severe, potentially resulting in a period where your driver’s license is suspended.

Legal Implications and Court Appearance

Exceeding the speed limit by more than 25 mph generally requires a court appearance. It is advisable to schedule a court date and see a traffic court lawyer, even if you are just getting a speeding ticket, to understand your legal options and potential outcomes.

If you exceed the speed limit by 90 mph in a 65 mph zone, the smallest base fine is $70, but the courts can add on additional fines, which can push the total cost over $400. If the speed limit is 55 mph, the minimum base fine for driving 90 mph would be $100. Additional fines such as "speeding too fast for conditions" and "reckless driving" can easily push your total fine to $400.

Speeding Tickets and Special Zones

It’s important to note that how far you are over the legal speed limit can also make a significant difference. For example, if you were driving 90 mph in a 15 mph school zone, the speeding ticket could be much more severe. Similarly, on a divided highway where the speed limit is 75 mph, driving 90 mph is still over 15 mph, which could lead to a base fine of $70, but the total fine can still be significant.

Standard Fines in California

Base fines for speeding in California escalate as the speed increases. The fines for speeding between 1 and 15 mph are relatively moderate at $35. For speeds between 16 and 25 mph, the base fine is $70. For speeds over 26 mph, the base fine is $100. If you exceed the speed limit by 100 mph or more, the base fine can be a hefty $200.

Conclusion

Driving at 90 mph in California, where the speed limit is 65 mph, is a serious offense that can result in significant fines, potential license suspension, and even felony charges. It is crucial to be aware of the speed limits in different zones and to take legal advice if you receive a speeding ticket. Remember, fines can be costly, and the consequences of a speeding ticket can be far-reaching.