Hello from Belgium,
I'm a Belgian lawyer, planning my summer US trip. I stumbled upon this thread while searching for US traffic rules and information about speeding fines.
Mid July, I'm taking my car (BMW M5) to the States (by boat). I arrive at NY City, and plan to drive East to West in approx. 1 week, then present my car to Dinan in CA, and drive back to NY City in 2 weeks (passing through Las Vegas).
I'm fully aware of the strict US speeding policy, but "
you never know". I'd like to be prepared what knowledge of the law is concerned. Since I read some serious and interesting answers here in this thread, I'd like to ask some questions.
- I now know that a "speeding ticket" is officially a notice to appear in court. Does that mean that a police officer does not have the right to issue and collect an "immediate fine" ? This isn't even possible for foreigners with foreign cars ?
- What are the standard intervals between the date on which the speeding ticket is issued, and the date on which one should appear in court ? Some days, some weeks, more than a month ?
- What is the result of not appearing in court (e.g. when i'm already back in Europe) ? Will this raise the amount of the fine ? Are more severe results possible (other than a fine) ?
- What are the "common" fines for speeding on highways ? E.g. 10 mph too fast, 20 mph too fast, 30 mph, 40 mph, ... ?
- Is there any possibility that a "serious" speeding ticket (e.g. 120 mph where 65 is allowed) will result in an immediate arrest ? Is it possible my car will be seized ?
Thanks for answering.
G.