Is Speeding a Criminal Offense in Illinois?
Speeding is a common traffic violation that can have serious legal consequences in Illinois. While minor speeding infractions typically result in fines, more severe instances of speeding are classified as criminal offenses. Understanding the distinctions and potential penalties is crucial for drivers throughout Illinois.
When Does Speeding Become a Criminal Offense?
In Illinois, speeding becomes a criminal offense when a driver exceeds the posted speed limit by 26 mph or more. This is known as aggravated speeding, misdemeanor speeding, or excessive speeding. Speeding 25 mph or less over the posted speed limit is generally treated as a petty offense, which is non-criminal but still punishable by fines.
Legal Consequences of Criminal Speeding
Class B Misdemeanor:
- Definition: Speeding 26 to 34 mph over the limit.
- Penalties: Up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $1,500.
- Additional Information: A conviction can lead to a criminal record and increased insurance premiums.
Class A Misdemeanor:
- Definition: Speeding 35 mph or more over the limit.
- Penalties: Up to 12 months in jail and fines up to $2,500.
- Additional Information: This is the most severe speeding offense, but it is not classified as a felony. Convictions impact your criminal record and insurance rates.
For detailed information on the penalties and classifications of speeding violations, visit our Speeding Violations page.
| Offense | Classification | Penalties |
|---|---|---|
| Speeding 25 mph or less over the limit | Petty/Non-Criminal Offense | Fines (varies by jurisdiction) |
| Speeding 26 to 34 mph over the limit | Class B Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $1,500 |
| Speeding 35 mph or more over the limit | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months in jail and fines up to $2,500 |
Arrest and Jail Time
Drivers caught speeding 26 mph or more above the limit can be arrested, as this is considered a misdemeanor offense. The handling of such cases varies; some drivers may receive a ticket with a court date, while others may be taken into custody for processing depending on the circumstances and the officer’s discretion.
Impact on Insurance & Drivers License
A misdemeanor speeding conviction negatively impacts your insurance premiums as it is recorded on your driving record. Insurers may view such convictions as indicators of higher risk, leading to increased rates. A conviction may also counts toward the suspension of your driver’s license because it is a moving violation. While a single conviction does not automatically trigger suspension, multiple moving violation convictions within a specific timeframe can lead to this outcome.
Legal Defense for Speeding Charges
Given the serious nature of aggravated speeding charges, hiring an experienced attorney is highly recommended. A skilled lawyer can often reduce penalties or have charges dismissed altogether. Our team at Maksimovich & Associates, P.C. specializes in defending against traffic violations and can provide the necessary representation to achieve the best possible outcome.
Received a Speeding Ticket? Get Help Today!
Facing charges of aggravated speeding should not be taken lightly. If you find yourself facing speeding charges, seeking experienced legal representation is essential to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome. At Maksimovich & Associates, P.C., our attorneys are well-versed in traffic law and have been defending speeding tickets for the last 35 years. Contact Us today to schedule a FREE consultation.
