Speeding Tickets: California's Golden Ticket to Financial Ruin (Maybe)
So, you've been slapped with a speeding ticket in the Golden State. Congratulations, you're now officially part of a very exclusive club. The California Speeding Ticket Collectors Society. Membership is totally voluntary, but the dues are not optional.
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| How Much Does Speeding Ticket Cost In California |
The Price of Freedom (Or at Least, Speed)
Let's talk turkey. Or rather, let’s talk dollars and cents. Because let's face it, speeding tickets are like that friend who always orders the most expensive thing on the menu and then forgets their wallet.
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The base fine for speeding depends on how much you were actually flying. If you were casually cruising at 1-15 mph over the limit, you're looking at a base fine of $35. Casual. If you were channeling your inner Mario Andretti and were doing 16-25 mph over, that's a beefier $70. And if you were straight-up needin to get somewhere, and were going 26+ mph over, well, buckle up, because that's a cool $100 base fine.
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But wait, there's more! This is California, people. We don't do things halfway. So, in addition to the base fine, you'll also be treated to a delightful assortment of fees, surcharges, and assessments. Court operations assessment, conviction assessment, state penalty assessment, night court assessment, county penalty assessment, DNA identification fund penalty assessment, state court construction penalty assessment,
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Bottom line: That seemingly innocent little piece of paper can turn into a financial black hole faster than you can say "I didn't see that speed trap."
How to Avoid Becoming a Speeding Ticket Patron
Okay, so maybe you're not ready to join the California Speeding Ticket Collectors Society. Here are a few tips to help you avoid becoming a member:
- Slow down: This might seem obvious, but it's worth mentioning. The speed limit is there for a reason. And that reason isn't to make your drive less exciting.
- Use cruise control: This can help you maintain a steady speed and avoid accidentally creeping over the limit.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Look out for speed traps and other potential hazards.
- Invest in a good radar detector: This can give you a heads up about upcoming speed traps.
- Consider traffic school: If you do get a ticket, traffic school can help you avoid points on your license and potentially save you money on insurance.
How To...
- How to calculate the total cost of a speeding ticket? Use an online speeding ticket calculator or consult with a traffic attorney.
- How to fight a speeding ticket? Gather evidence, dispute the ticket in court, or consider traffic school.
- How to reduce the impact of a speeding ticket on insurance? Shop around for new insurance quotes after a certain period, maintain a good driving record, and consider defensive driving courses.
- How to avoid speeding tickets in the future? Practice defensive driving, use cruise control, and be aware of speed limits.
- How to find a traffic attorney? Search online for traffic attorneys in your area, read reviews, and consult with multiple attorneys before making a decision.
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