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Criminal Speeding in Arizona is a Class 3 misdemeanor. Arizona Revised Statute 28-701.02 defines this offense. A driver commits criminal speeding 3 ways in Arizona. First, if the driver exceeds the posted speed limit in a business or residential district by more than 20 MPH. Indeed, it is criminal speeding for a driver to exceed 45 MPH where no posted speed limit. Second, if the driver exceeds 35 MPH “in or approaching” a school crossing zone. And third, if a driver exceeds 85 MPH in “other locations”.
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Criminal speeding is never a felony in Arizona. However, this offense could lead to more serious consequences for a driver. For example, a person driving 100 MPH through city streets is engaging in reckless conduct. And if this reckless conduct causes any injury or death to another, serious consequences follow. Indeed, the reckless use of a motor vehicle (dangerous instrument) is a “dangerous offense” in Arizona. This means a person faces mandatory prison if convicted at trial. As such, it is important to recognize that criminal speeding is a serious offense that could lead to life-changing consequences if an accident occurs.
How to Commit Criminal Speeding?
As discussed above, Arizona criminalizes 3 driving behaviors as criminal speeding. Indeed, the legislature sought to protect residential, business, and school districts as the statute accounts for all of these locations. However, highways and freeways also obviously have speed regulation.
20 MPH Over Speed Limit in Business or Residential District
A.R.S. 28-701.02(A)(3) states “[a] person shall not exceed the posted speed limit
Ramifications of Criminal Speeding in Arizona
. This offense is a Class 3 Misdemeanor in Arizona and carries the following consequences:
- Up to 30 days jail
- A fine not to exceed $500
- Up to 1 year probation