Speeding Ticket Prices In Georgia

Understanding Speeding Ticket Costs in Georgia: A Comprehensive Guide

Speeding tickets in Georgia are not just a nuisance—they can have significant financial and legal repercussions. The cost of a speeding ticket varies widely depending on factors like the location, the speed at which you were driving, and whether you’re a repeat offender. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about speeding ticket prices in Georgia, including hidden costs, penalties, and how to mitigate them.

How Speeding Ticket Costs Are Determined in Georgia

In Georgia, speeding ticket fines are structured based on the speed limit and how much you exceeded it. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Basic Fine Structure:

   • Exceeding the speed limit by 1-14 mph: $0 (no fine, but court costs apply).
     
   • Exceeding the speed limit by 15-18 mph: $100.
     
   • Exceeding the speed limit by 19-23 mph: $150.
     
   • Exceeding the speed limit by 24-33 mph: $200.
     
   • Exceeding the speed limit by 34+ mph: $300.
     

2. Super Speeder Law:

   • If you’re caught driving 75 mph or faster on a two-lane road or 85 mph or faster on any road, you’ll face an additional $200 “Super Speeder” fee, payable to the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS).
     

3. Court Costs and Surcharges:

   • Beyond the base fine, you’ll pay additional court costs, which typically range from 50 to 200, depending on the county.
     

4. Location Matters:

   • Fines can vary by jurisdiction. For example, speeding in a school zone or construction zone often results in higher penalties.
     

Hidden Costs of Speeding Tickets

Beyond the immediate fine, speeding tickets in Georgia can lead to:

1. Increased Insurance Premiums:

   • A single speeding ticket can raise your insurance rates by 20-30% annually, costing you hundreds of dollars over time.
     

2. Points on Your License:

   • Georgia uses a point system:
     
     • 15-18 mph over: 2 points.
       
     • 19-23 mph over: 3 points.
       
     • 24-33 mph over: 4 points.
       
     • 34+ mph over: 6 points.
       
   • Accumulating 15 points within 24 months can lead to license suspension.
     

3. Driver’s Education Courses:

   • If you’re a repeat offender, you may be required to take a defensive driving course, which costs around 100-200.
     

4. Legal Fees:

   • Hiring an attorney to fight the ticket can cost 300-1,000, depending on the complexity of the case.
     

How to Reduce or Avoid Speeding Ticket Costs

1. Fight the Ticket in Court:

   • Contesting the ticket may result in reduced fines or dismissal, especially if evidence is weak.
     

2. Attend Defensive Driving School:

   • Completing a certified course can remove points from your license and prevent insurance hikes.
     

3. Negotiate with the Prosecutor:

   • In some cases, prosecutors may agree to reduce charges in exchange for pleading guilty to a lesser offense.
     

4. Hire a Traffic Attorney:

   • An experienced attorney can navigate the legal system and potentially save you money in the long run.
     

Speeding Ticket Costs by County (Examples)

Note: These are estimates and do not include Super Speeder fees or insurance increases.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion

Speeding tickets in Georgia are more than just a one-time expense—they can have long-term financial and legal consequences. Understanding the costs, hidden fees, and ways to mitigate them is crucial for any driver. Whether you choose to pay the ticket, fight it in court, or take a defensive driving course, being informed is your best defense against the high price of speeding.