Speeding tickets may seem like a minor inconvenience, but in Arizona, they can have serious consequences—especially if you’re charged with criminal speeding. Whether you received a civil citation or are facing criminal charges, understanding your rights and options is critical.
Here’s what you need to know—and do—if you’ve been cited for speeding in Arizona.
Types of Speeding Tickets
- Civil Speeding Violations
These are the most common and include:
- Driving over the posted speed limit but not excessively
- Driving too fast for conditions
- Speeding in a school or construction zone (unless the speed is excessive)
- Criminal Speeding
This is a misdemeanor offense. You can be charged with criminal speeding if you:
- Exceed 85 mph on any highway
- Exceed the posted limit by 20 mph in a 45+ mph zone, or by 10+ mph in a 35 or lower zone
- Speed in a school zone
Criminal speeding is a Class 3 misdemeanor, which is a criminal offense and carries much more serious consequences.
What to Do If You Get a Speeding Ticket in Arizona
- Review the Citation Carefully
Check for:
- Whether it’s civil or criminal
- The date and time of your court appearance (for criminal)
- Location and officer’s notes
Don’t ignore the ticket—civil citations have due dates, and criminal ones often require a court appearance. You face a potential default for any civil charges if you fail to appear.
- Know Your Options for a Civil Ticket
You can usually:
- Pay the fine: This is an admission of guilt and may add points to your license.
- Attend Defensive Driving School: Eligible drivers can take a state-approved course to dismiss the violation and avoid points (available once every 12 months).
- Contest the ticket in court: You can plead not responsible and request a hearing to fight the ticket.
3. Take Criminal Speeding Seriously
Criminal speeding is not just a traffic ticket—it’s a criminal charge. You should:
- Do not ignore the summons: Failing to appear can result in a warrant for your arrest.
- Avoid discussing the case without an attorney: Statements you make to officers, prosecutors, or online can be used against you.
- Hire a criminal traffic attorney: A skilled lawyer can help you:
- Fight the charge
- Negotiate for a reduced charge or dismissal
- Avoid jail time and a permanent criminal record
Charged with Speeding in Arizona? We Can Help.
Whether you’re facing a civil fine or a criminal charge, you don’t have to go it alone. At Fountain Hills Law Firm Name, we help Arizona drivers fight speeding tickets, avoid points, and protect their driving records—and in criminal cases, we fight to keep you out of jail and your record clean.
Contact us today for a free consultation.