Speeding is no joke

Drivers in New Mexico who think they can drive a few miles per hour over the posted speed limit without consequences need to think again. Not only does speeding increase the chances of accidents and place others in danger, the state also has strict penalties for driving too fast.

According to the Albuquerque Journal, the state has strict laws against reckless driving and speeding. In fact, research has shown it to be the 5th strictest state in all of the country. Besides the cost of the ticket, convicted drivers can expect higher insurance rates and even jail time for those who drive 25 miles per hour or more over the limit. Even first-time offenders feel the effects, and subsequent speeding tickets result in maximum fines.

While speeding is a big no-no in the state, experts say that going to court may decrease the punishment for many drivers. KOAT Action News echoes this sentiment and says that fighting the ticket in court often results in a lower fine. Because police officers consider a driver to be speeding whether they are going one mile over or 20, it can be helpful to ask for some leniency. Depending on whether the driver is issued a citation by the city or state can also affect not only how much the ticket is but also if points are added to the driving record.

Arguing the ticket in court is especially beneficial for those with clean driving records. A judge will often either change the ticket to a warning or lower the sentence. No matter the outcome in court, drivers are still typically responsible to pay the associated fees.