Upon receiving a speeding ticket in Georgia, you might think paying the fine is the most convenient solution. However, this often leads to consequences that extend far beyond the initial fine amount. Before making that payment, you should understand how it might affect your driving privileges.
Points on your driving record
Georgia operates under a point system for traffic violations. When you pay a speeding ticket, you plead guilty to the offense. This guilty plea adds points to your driving record. A speeding violation can add between two and six points, depending on how fast you were traveling over the limit.
These points remain on your record for two years. If you accumulate 15 points within 24 months, the Georgia Department of Driver Services will suspend your license. Georgia has more stringent rules for younger drivers.
If you are under 21 years old, a single conviction bearing four or more points triggers a license suspension. Motorists under 18 face even stricter restrictions, with suspension occurring if they accumulate four or more points within a period of 12 consecutive months. Violations carrying four or more points include:
- Speeding 24 mph or more over the limit
- Reckless driving
- Aggressive driving
- Improper passing
Overall, a suspended license can interfere with your routine, making it difficult to get to work or handle everyday errands.
Insurance premium increases
Insurance companies evaluate your driving record when calculating your premium rates. A speeding conviction indicates to insurers that you are a higher-risk driver. As a result, you may face higher insurance premiums.
This premium adjustment is not a one-time cost. You may encounter higher premiums for three to five years following a conviction. Over time, these costs can accumulate into hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
State fees and penalties
In addition to the citation and points, Georgia imposes fees for certain violations. If you were driving 75 mph or more on a two-lane road or 85 mph or more on any road, you incur “super speeder” penalties. This adds an extra $200 fee beyond your original fine.
Failure to pay the super speeder fee results in license suspension. Furthermore, reinstating a suspended license requires you to pay reinstatement fees and potentially complete additional requirements.
Protecting your driving privileges
Taking time to understand the full scope of consequences can help you make an informed choice. Remember that what seems like a quick solution now may lead to unexpected expenses in the future. You deserve to know all the facts before determining a course of action with a traffic violation.
