Every state has driving laws in place. However, the penalties and potential charges related to each differ in severity across the nation. While it is always best to avoid reckless driving, such as speeding or driving impaired, mistakes do happen. Knowing how strict each state’s laws are may help protect you if you travel often across states or even across the country.
WalletHub conducted a study in America that determined the severity based on speeding enforcement and reckless penalties. It then used this data to rank each state. Delaware and western states took the top spots on the list. Thereafter, there were no clear regional trends that showed strictness in any one area more than others.
Where does Georgia fall on the list?
Georgia ties for 17th place with three other states for strictness, when it comes to speeding and other types of reckless driving. The Peach State ranked at number 25 for reckless penalties and 17 for speeding enforcement. For comparison, the two states ranking at the bottom of the list are Mississippi and Texas.
When can it become a criminal issue?
Any traffic ticket you receive becomes a criminal issue, though it may not lead to criminal penalties in the full sense of the word. For instance, you may only need to pay a fine or you may choose to fight the ticket and face no penalties at all.
In fact, many Georgians feel more concerned about the potential effects on car insurance, as opposed to criminal charges. Even so, in the cases of property damage, bodily injuries or death, criminal penalties may become more severe.
Speeding played a role in 27% of fatal crashes in 2016. While there are often legitimate reasons for exceeding the speed limit, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of doing so.
