Speeding is a common traffic violation, but the consequences can vary significantly depending on location and the severity of the infraction. In Kansas, understanding the penalties for speeding is crucial for all drivers. This guide will clarify whether speeding is a misdemeanor in Kansas and outline the potential repercussions.
Understanding Speeding Tickets in Kansas
In Kansas, speeding is not automatically classified as a misdemeanor. The severity of the charge depends on how much over the speed limit you were driving. Minor speeding infractions are typically handled as infractions, while more serious speeding offenses can be classified as misdemeanors.
Infractions vs. Misdemeanors
- Infractions: These are less serious offenses, usually resulting in fines and points on your driving record. They don't typically lead to jail time. Many speeding tickets in Kansas fall under this category.
- Misdemeanors: These are more serious offenses that can result in fines, jail time, and a more significant impact on your driving record. In Kansas, speeding becomes a misdemeanor when the violation is significantly above the posted speed limit or involves aggravating circumstances.
When Speeding Becomes a Misdemeanor in Kansas
Several factors determine whether a speeding ticket in Kansas will be classified as a misdemeanor:
-
Speed: Exceeding the speed limit by a substantial margin significantly increases the likelihood of a misdemeanor charge. The exact threshold varies depending on the specific circumstances and the discretion of the law enforcement officer. Generally, speeds significantly above the limit, especially in areas with lower speed limits (such as school zones), are more likely to lead to misdemeanor charges.
-
Location: Speeding in certain areas, such as school zones or construction zones, carries harsher penalties. Even relatively minor speeding in these areas can result in misdemeanor charges.
-
Aggravating Circumstances: Additional factors can elevate a speeding ticket to a misdemeanor. These might include reckless driving, causing an accident, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs while speeding.
-
Prior Offenses: A history of speeding tickets can increase the severity of future violations. Multiple speeding tickets within a short period could lead to more serious charges, even for relatively minor speeding offenses.
Penalties for Speeding in Kansas
The penalties for speeding in Kansas vary widely depending on the speed and other factors mentioned above. They can include:
-
Fines: Fines increase with the severity of the violation. Misdemeanor speeding charges typically result in significantly higher fines than infractions.
-
Points on your license: Speeding tickets result in points added to your driving record. Accumulating too many points can lead to license suspension or revocation.
-
Jail time: While unlikely for minor speeding offenses, jail time is a possibility for misdemeanor speeding charges, particularly those involving aggravating circumstances.
-
Increased Insurance Premiums: Speeding tickets will almost certainly lead to increased insurance premiums. Misdemeanor convictions will result in significantly higher increases.
How to Handle a Speeding Ticket in Kansas
If you receive a speeding ticket in Kansas, you have several options:
-
Pay the fine: This is the simplest option, but it will result in points on your license and increased insurance premiums.
-
Attend traffic school: In some cases, attending traffic school can help reduce points or avoid points altogether. This can reduce the impact on your insurance premiums.
-
Fight the ticket in court: If you believe the ticket is inaccurate or unfair, you can challenge it in court. This option requires more effort and legal expertise.
Seeking Legal Advice
For serious speeding violations or if you are facing misdemeanor charges, seeking legal counsel from a qualified Kansas attorney is highly recommended. An attorney can explain your rights and help you navigate the legal process.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. The laws regarding speeding in Kansas can be complex, and it is always best to consult with a legal professional for guidance on your specific situation.
