Understanding Speeding Ticket Laws in South Dakota: How a Lawyer Can Help You Navigate the Legal System

Speeding is a violation of traffic laws punishable under South Dakota laws. Despite its common occurrence, speeding tickets can be a serious legal problem that can tarnish your driving record, raise your insurance rates, and eventually lead to driver’s license suspension. If you’ve received a ticket, it is sensible to understand the state’s speeding ticket laws and how to effectively navigate the legal system to avoid severe legal repercussions. In this article, we explore some of the most important information you should know regarding speeding ticket laws in South Dakota, and how a lawyer can be of assistance.

What is Considered Speeding in South Dakota?

In the state of South Dakota, speeding is defined as the act of driving above the posted speed limit for the street or highway you are driving on. Another way to be charged with speeding is driving too fast for the current road conditions, regardless of the speed limit. Motorists are required to operate their vehicles at a safe and stable speed that does not endanger other people or property around them.

South Dakota Speeding Ticket Penalties

South Dakota has different speeding ticket fines depending on the motorists’ speed. According to the state’s speeding penalty chart:

- Driving at speeds above 1-10 mph above the maximum speed limit attracts no demerit points, but a fine of $90.
- Speeding at 11-15mph above the maximum speed is punishable by a fine of $120 and three demerit points.
- Drivers caught driving at 16-19mph above the maximum speed limit are charged with a $150 fine and four demerit points.
- Speeding at 20-24mph above the maximum speed limit attracts a fine of $200 and five demerit points.
- If you are driving above the maximum speed limit by more than 25mph, you may receive fines that may range between $430 up to $500, depending on various conditions, and six demerit points.

Getting Pulled Over for Speeding in South Dakota:

When you are pulled over by a police officer for speeding, you are required to follow a few steps. Motorists should produce their driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance. After the officer has issued a speeding ticket, you must either pay the fine, plead guilty, or request a court date to contest the charges. Additionally, if you receive three or more moving violations in twelve months, your driver’s license may be suspended.

Traffic Court, Traffic School, and Defensive Driving Courses

If you decide to contest the charges or plead guilty, you may be required to participate in traffic school or take defensive driving courses. Most traffic schools offer classroom and online options to help drivers learn safe driving techniques and educate them on the state’s traffic laws. Additionally, traffic school attendance may save drivers from license suspensions or lowering the demerit points on their driving record. Depending on the court system in your jurisdiction, a judge may dismiss the case entirely if you successfully complete the traffic school course.

How to Fight a Speeding Ticket in South Dakota

Speeding tickets may not always be your fault, and you may have good reasons to contest a ticket in court. You can argue your case by creating reasonable doubt that you were speeding or presenting evidence that there were conditions that necessitated your speeding. Some of the evidence you may need to secure include:

- Witness statements, which can be from passengers or other drivers who were present at the time of the incident.
- A document that proves your speedometer was inaccurate.
- Evidence proving there was a mechanical problem with your vehicle that made it impossible to maintain a safe speed.
- Photographic or video evidence that show the road conditions or signs where you were pulled over, which may be useful in making a case.

Fighting your speeding ticket will require a sound legal strategy and extensive evidence that can stand up in court. Engaging the services of an experienced traffic ticket lawyer can help you mount a strong legal defense.

How a Traffic Ticket Lawyer can Help

The services of a traffic ticket lawyer can be of immense importance when you are facing a speeding ticket in South Dakota. These professionals understand the legal system and the various options for pleading your case in court. A traffic lawyer will also offer legal advice and guidance, helping individuals develop a strong legal argument based on the circumstances surrounding their case. These legal professionals can work to convince the judge to dismiss the charges or plead for solving lesser charges by negotiating with the prosecution.

Additionally, traffic ticket lawyer can help ensure you don't lose your driver's license, experience demerit points increases, or continue running up insurance rates. If you've been issued a speeding ticket, a traffic lawyer can help you navigate the legal system protecting both you and your driving privileges.

Conclusion

If you receive a speeding ticket in South Dakota, it is important to understand the laws, penalties, and options available. A traffic ticket lawyer can be a valuable asset. They can help you develop a sound legal strategy which may result in better outcomes than attempting to navigate the legal system on your own. With this understanding of the speed ticket laws in South Dakota, you can make an informed decision on how best to fight the charges.