Well before passing my driver’s education class and securing my license to independence, I was constantly reminded that excessive speed is highly dangerous. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports speeding was a contributing factor in 30 percent of fatal motor vehicle crashes in 2012. More than 10,000 lives are lost in speeding related crashes every year from 2003 to 2012. If that doesn’t scare you into keeping your speed near legal limits, consider the high costs associated with getting a speeding ticket and an increase of your insurance premiums. If you really scoff at breaking the posted speed limits, consider time in jail, lawyer fees, and time away from work.
Wallethub published an extensive article listing which states in the U.S. are the most costly for speeding and reckless driving. This complex study factors in 12 key metrics across all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
The winner (or loser if your caught speeding) is the state of Colorado. Arizona, Delaware, and Illinois all tied for second place. The report also shows the frequency of jail time issued for first and second reckless misdeeds. Illinois is the state where you really want to avoid a speed ticket. The state has a lot of measures in place to combat speeding and the penalties are steep. Their law enforcement automatically considers speeding reckless driving and have the highest maximum fine—especially harsh if you get a second offense.
The study also found that 75% of states have “absolute” speed limits, meaning just by going over the limit, the state has enough to convict you of speeding. The other quarter of states have laws that allow your to argue in court that the speeding was reasonable. Also, while no states have mandatory jail time, if you are convicted of reckless driving, expect to spend at least a night in jail.
Across the country, the average maximum cost of a speeding ticket is $742.
The highest is Washington state, where you could incur up to $5,000 on a single ticket. Kentucky, Mississippi, and New Mexico are all tied for the lowest, with a $100 maximum fine.
Think your state is tough on speeding. Check out the full report to see where your state ranks for speeding tickets.
