As of January 1, 2011, Illinois drivers with a heavy foot on the pedal face much stiffer penalties for excessive speeding.
The new Illinois law targets drivers who speed more than 31 mph over the limit. What used to be a virtual slap on the wrist plus possible fines is now a potential jail sentence.
Under the new law, a driver who speeds between 31 and 39 mph over the limit can be charged with a Class B Misdemeanor, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a $1,500 fine. A driver who speeds 40 mph or more over the limit can face a Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $2,500 fine.
Before the new law took effect, speeding more than 31 miles per hour was considered a moving violation, punishable by court supervision, possible driver safety classes and a fine. Under supervision, the driver was admonished not to violate any further laws within a set time period.
If you are stopped for excessive speeding, please refrain from making any statements to the officer, which can later be used against you in court. While speeding cases can be difficult to challenge, an experienced criminal law attorney can help determine the best strategy for defending your case.
If you have questions about a traffic-related or other criminal law matter, please contact Matt Keenan at 847-568-0160 or email matt@mattkeenanlaw.com
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Illinois Jurisprudence: Criminal Law and Procedure. Vol. 1. (LexisNexis 2014).
Illinois Jurisprudence: Criminal Law and Procedure. Vol. 1. (LexisNexis 2014).