Excessive speeding violations carry far harsher penalties than standard speeding tickets. When drivers exceed posted limits by large margins, they face higher fines, more points, possible suspension, and even criminal charges. While Florida doesn’t officially use the term “Super Speeder,” excessive speeding violations function the same way—triggering enhanced penalties that can affect your license, finances, and freedom.
At Got a Ticket in Florida, our attorneys have handled thousands of excessive speeding cases statewide. As former prosecutors, we know how these serious violations are charged and what strategies work to challenge or reduce them.
Understanding Excessive Speeding in Florida
Florida doesn’t have a formal “Super Speeder” law, but excessive speeding (30 mph or more over the limit) is treated as a serious traffic offense under state law.
- 1–15 mph over: 3 points
- 16–29 mph over: 4 points
- 30 mph or more over: potential reckless driving and even criminal prosecution
Officers decide how to charge excessive speed based on traffic, conditions, and perceived risk. At higher speeds, citations often escalate from simple infractions to criminal matters requiring aggressive defense.
Penalties for Excessive Speeding
Penalties rise sharply once speeds exceed 15 mph over the limit:
- 15–29 mph over: Fines $150–$300 + 4 points
- 30 mph or more over: Fines up to $500 and possible reckless driving charge
- Reckless driving (1st offense): Up to $500 fine, 90 days in jail, and 4 points
- Reckless driving (2nd offense): Up to $1,000 fine and 6 months in jail
Excessive speeding often leads to license suspension once point thresholds (12/18/24) are reached. If charged criminally, it can also leave a permanent record, affecting employment, housing, and insurance eligibility.
When Excessive Speeding Becomes Reckless Driving
Reckless driving occurs when a driver operates a vehicle with willful or wanton disregard for safety. While speeds exceeding 30 mph over the limit often lead officers to file reckless driving charges, speed alone doesn’t automatically prove intent. Our attorneys frequently negotiate to have these charges reduced to simple speeding, helping clients avoid a criminal record, jail time, and the long-term consequences of a reckless driving conviction.
Common Defenses to Excessive Speeding
We analyze every detail to identify technical or circumstantial defenses:
- Equipment inaccuracy: Radar and laser devices must be properly calibrated and maintained; small errors have major impact at high speeds.
- Emergency necessity: Medical or safety emergencies can justify temporary excessive speeds.
- Speedometer error: Mechanical or tire modifications can cause inaccurate readings.
- No “willful disregard”: Showing the act was negligent, not intentional, can defeat reckless driving claims.
- Mistaken identity: In multi-lane traffic, officers can misidentify the vehicle clocked.
Excessive Speeding in Special Zones
Certain locations heighten penalties and scrutiny:
- School zones: Prosecutors treat excessive speed near children as especially egregious.
- Construction zones: Fines double when workers are present and may include jail time.
- Residential areas: Added penalties due to pedestrian and property-safety risks.
Impact on Commercial Drivers
For CDL holders, excessive speeding can be career-ending.
- Counts as a serious traffic violation under FMCSA rules.
- Two serious violations in 3 years = 60-day disqualification.
- Three = 120 days.
Many carriers enforce zero-tolerance policies—termination can occur after a single citation. We prioritize reducing or dismissing these charges to protect your livelihood.
The Court Process
- Civil infraction: You have 30 days to pay, elect traffic school (if eligible), or request a hearing.
- Reckless driving charge: Handled as a criminal case with arraignment and potential trial.
Traffic school is rarely available for excessive or reckless speeding, so fighting the citation becomes the best option for avoiding points and long-term damage.
Our Approach to Excessive Speeding Defense
Our process is focused, technical, and proactive:
- Review radar/laser calibration logs and officer certifications
- Analyze weather, traffic, and line-of-sight conditions
- Document emergency or mechanical factors
- Challenge willful-disregard allegations in reckless cases
- Negotiate reductions or dismissals with prosecutors
Our experience as former prosecutors lets us anticipate strategy and negotiate from a position of strength.
Why Choose Got a Ticket in Florida
- Thousands of excessive speeding cases handled statewide
- Former prosecutors with insight into charging decisions
- Proven success reducing reckless driving to simple speeding
- Statewide representation with minimal client court appearances
- Direct communication and clear guidance at every step
Protect Your Freedom and License
Excessive speeding isn’t just a traffic ticket—it’s a serious charge that can cost your license, income, and reputation.
If you’ve received an excessive speeding or reckless-driving citation anywhere in Florida, contact Got a Ticket in Florida today. Our attorneys will review your case, investigate every detail, and fight to protect your freedom and your driving privileges. Call (877) 846-8284 for a consultation.