Everyone gets stopped for speeding at least once in their lives but it’s usually not a big deal and the most that happens is that you pay a hefty fine and get points on your license. However, for some, speeding can land them in jail.
Speeding isn’t just driving over the speed limit, it also includes driving too fast for unsafe road conditions such as stormy weather, icy roads, or road construction. If you are caught speeding excessively, going over 100MPH in a 40MPH zone, for example, you’ll likely be arrested. In Texas, you won’t be arrested for speeding per se, but rather for reckless driving. You can be charged for reckless driving if you’re going 20MPH over the posted speed limit. Although it varies in other states, reckless driving is a misdemeanor in Texas and can result in a fine of up to $200 and up to 30 days in jail. Of course, if your speeding and reckless driving led to a death or serious injury, you’ll also face vehicular homicide or vehicular manslaughter and real prison time.
If you are arrested for reckless driving, the judge hearing the case will look at the circumstances of your case like how fast you were driving and whether or not it is your first offense. A skilled defense attorney may be able to help you avoid jail time, even if it’s not your first offense. And if you’re lucky, the judge may allow you to attend traffic school to offset points on your license. This can help you keep your driver’s insurance premiums low and may help you if your lead foot gets you pulled over for speeding sometime in the future.
If you are arrested for reckless driving, try to remain calm. You’ll be booked for the crime and brought before a judge for arraignment. The judge will look at your case, your history, and will either allow you to be released on your own recognizance, will set a bail amount, or deny bail (which is unlikely for this crime). Once you have a set bail amount, you can contact a bail bond agency and make arrangements for your release.
The best way to avoid jail time for reckless driving is to avoid excessive speeding. Driving at high speeds uses more gas which costs you more money and tickets and fines can really hit you in the wallet too. One of the biggest dangers of excessive speeding is the damage you could do to yourself and to others on the road if you were to lose control while speeding.
At AAAA Discount Bail Bonds, we can help you through the entire process of obtaining a bond so you can get out of jail quickly and back home where you belong. No one wants to be in jail any longer than they have to and our expert staff can explain all of your options so you can make the right decision quickly during this difficult time. Call our dedicated staff anytime at (936)539-4444 for a free consultation or if you have any questions.