Speeding Ticket Defense Lawyer in Texas
A speeding ticket in Texas might seem like a minor inconvenience, but the truth is, a conviction can have far-reaching consequences that impact your driving record, insurance rates, and even your driving privileges. At the Beltz Law Group, we understand the nuances of Texas traffic law and stand as a premier speeding ticket defense law firm, dedicated to protecting drivers across North Texas.
The Definition of Speeding: Texas Transportation Code § 545.351
In Texas, speeding isn’t just about exceeding a numerical limit. The core definition of speeding is found in Texas Transportation Code § 545.351, “Maximum Speed Requirement.” This crucial statute outlines the fundamental principle that governs how fast you can legally drive.
Here’s what it states:
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(a) An operator may not drive at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the circumstances then existing. This “basic speed rule” is the bedrock of Texas speeding law. It means that even if you are driving below a posted speed limit, you could still be ticketed if the conditions (such as heavy rain, fog, ice, or dense traffic) warrant a slower speed. Your speed must always be “reasonable and prudent” for the prevailing hazards.
- (b) An operator: (1) may not drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard for actual and potential hazards then existing; and (2) shall control the speed of the vehicle as necessary to avoid colliding with another person or vehicle that is on or entering the highway in compliance with law and the duty of each person to use due care. This subsection further emphasizes the duty of a driver to control their speed to avoid accidents, taking into account all existing and potential hazards.
Speeding Ticket Lawyer
Beyond this general principle, Texas Transportation Code also sets out “prima facie” speed limits in § 545.352. These are the speeds that are presumed to be reasonable and prudent unless a special hazard dictates otherwise. Common prima facie limits include:
- 30 mph in an urban district on a street other than an alley.
- 70 mph on a highway numbered by the state or U.S. outside an urban district (like a farm-to-market or ranch-to-market road).
- 60 mph on an unnumbered highway outside an urban district.
- Specific reduced speeds for school buses and in certain designated zones (e.g., school zones, construction zones).
Exceeding these prima facie limits is considered prima facie evidence that your speed was not reasonable and prudent, making it unlawful. However, the “reasonable and prudent” clause still allows for a defense even if you were technically over the posted limit, if you can demonstrate that your speed was safe given the specific conditions.
The Impact of a Speeding Ticket
Speeding Ticket
A speeding ticket in Texas is more than just a fine. A conviction can trigger several negative consequences:
- Fines and Court Costs: These vary significantly depending on how much you were speeding, where the offense occurred (e.g., school zone, construction zone), and the specific court. Fines can range from a couple of hundred dollars to well over a thousand for severe violations or those in special zones.
- Increased Insurance Rates: Your auto insurance provider will likely view a speeding conviction as a sign of increased risk, leading to higher premiums for several years. This can end up costing you far more than the initial ticket fine.
- Driving Privileges: For repeat offenders or those with very high speeds, the ultimate consequence can be the suspension or even revocation of your driver’s license, severely impacting your ability to commute, work, and conduct daily life.
How Beltz Law Group Can Help
Facing a speeding ticket can be daunting, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. The Beltz Law Group is a premier speeding ticket defense law firm in North Texas, with a proven track record of assisting countless individuals in protecting their driving records, insurance rates, and driving privileges.
Ticket Defense Attorney
Our experienced attorneys meticulously review every detail of your case, exploring potential defenses such as:
- Challenging the Accuracy of Speed Measurement: We investigate the calibration of radar/lidar devices, potential operator errors, and environmental factors that could have influenced the reading.
- Disputing Officer Observations: We examine whether the officer’s visual estimation of your speed was reliable and if proper pacing techniques were used.
- Lack of Proper Signage: For areas with posted speed limits, we verify that the signs were clearly visible, properly placed, and met all legal requirements.
- “Reasonable and Prudent” Defense: We can argue that despite exceeding a posted limit, your speed was indeed reasonable and prudent given the specific conditions at the time.
- Negotiating for Deferred Disposition or Defensive Driving: In many cases, we can work to secure an outcome that allows you to avoid a conviction on your record, such as deferred disposition (where the ticket is dismissed after a probationary period) or completing a defensive driving course.
Don’t let a speeding ticket derail your future. Contact the Beltz Law Group today for a consultation. Let our expertise and dedication provide you with the aggressive defense you need to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
