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Illinois Speeding Laws

It happens to the best of us. You’re driving down the road, thinking about work or life, and your speed creeps up before you realize it. A police officer pulls you over, and just like that you’re getting a ticket for a moving violation. Getting a traffic ticket in Illinois is inconvenient and expensive, but do you know just how expensive it can really be? Many people think the cost of their ticket is all there is to it, so they pay it and move on, hoping to avoid further inconveniences like going to court. But consider this: your insurance rates could increase as much as 18 percent after receiving just one moving violation. Those rate increases will last for at least a year, probably two or more, an expense that can add up quickly. Adding to that cost is the points you’ll accrue against your license, which can cost you both financially and in other ways. For instance, if you have too many points against your license it can be hard to get a loan or buy a car. You can go to traffic school to remove some of those points, but you’ll have to pay for it yourself.

It’s easy to see how a single ticket can wind up costing you a lot more than the initial printed fee. That’s why it’s so important to exercise your right to fight your ticket in court. Before you head into the courtroom, though, it’s important to learn about the law and hire an experienced Illinois traffic attorney to help you with your case. The following information will help you do both.

Unique Illinois Driver's License Features

Driving in Illinois is unique compared to driving in other areas of the country. For one thing, Illinois has red light cameras in effect, so you have to be very careful when driving through stoplight areas. It’s always better to stop than to go through and get caught. The first time you drive through a red light and receive a camera-initiated ticket, you’ll be faced with a fine of $375, as a base. If you’re caught a second time, it’s $1,000 and a 90-day suspension of your license. However, cameras aren’t your only concern when driving in Illinois.

The Illinois Points System

If you receive 15 to 44 points on your license within a year, you’ll lose it for two months. Between 45 and 74 points? That’ll be three months. If you incur 75 to 89 points you’ll have to give up your license for three months, and anything over 100 points will result in the loss of your license for a full year.

On the face of it, it might seem that Illinois has the loosest points system in the country. After all, how in the world would you ever accrue 100 points, right? However, on closer inspection, you’ll find that Illinois also has some of the highest points-per-offense rules in the country, making it just as easy to wind up losing your license here than it is anywhere else.

For instance, if you’re speeding in a school zone — regardless of how fast you’re going or how many miles over the speed limit you’re traveling — that’s an automatic 20 points. Traveling one to 10 miles per hour over the posted speed limit? That’s five points. Traveling 25 miles per hour or more over the speed limit is 50 points! In other words, going 85 in a 60 can result in obtaining a single moving violation worth enough points to cost you a three-month license suspension. It doesn’t take much to find yourself facing the prospect of losing your license in Illinois.

Can You Fight a Speeding Ticket in Illinois?

Absolutely, and you should. As outlined above, it doesn’t take a whole lot to face serious consequences after a moving violation. It’s important that you exercise your right to fight the charges against you in a court of law. You could save yourself time, money, and countless consequences that can last for years just by presenting your side of the case. Make sure you bring any evidence you have with you including witness statements, photos, and other documentation. Finally, it’s critical to hire an experienced, reputable Illinois traffic attorney so you can have the best chance of winning your case. Only a qualified attorney will be able to evaluate your circumstances and present the best defense on your behalf.

Ticket Void has years of experience matching drivers just like you with the perfect Illinois traffic lawyer for their case. By entering just a few pieces of basic information, we’ll be able to match you with an experienced traffic attorney in Illinois who can help you fight your case and win. The consultation is free, so what do you have to lose? Get started today, and exercise your right to fight.