Georgia Speeding Ticket Costs: What to Expect
Speeding tickets are a common traffic violation in Georgia, but the costs associated with them go far beyond the initial fine. From court fees to insurance hikes, the financial impact can be significant. Understanding the full scope of these costs is essential for anyone who’s been ticketed—or wants to avoid being ticketed—in the Peach State. Let’s break down what you can expect.
The Base Fine: Starting Point, Not the Full Picture
The base fine for a speeding ticket in Georgia varies depending on the county and how much you exceeded the speed limit. Here’s a general breakdown:
- 1-14 mph over the limit: 0 to 100 (varies by county)
- 15-18 mph over: 100 to 150
- 19-23 mph over: 150 to 200
- 24-33 mph over: 200 to 300
- 34 mph or more over: $300+ (and potential license suspension)
These figures are just the starting point. Additional fees, surcharges, and penalties can quickly add up.
Super Speeder Law: A Costly Addition
Georgia’s Super Speeder Law adds a $200 state fee to tickets for driving 15 mph or more over the speed limit or 75 mph or more on a two-lane road. This fee is in addition to the base fine and other charges. Failure to pay the Super Speeder fee within 120 days can result in the suspension of your driver’s license.
Court Costs and Surcharges: Hidden Expenses
In Georgia, court costs and surcharges are tacked onto every speeding ticket. These fees vary by county but typically range from 50 to 150. For example, in Fulton County, court costs can add $100 or more to your ticket.
Insurance Increases: The Long-Term Cost
A speeding ticket in Georgia can cause your auto insurance premiums to spike. On average, drivers in Georgia see a 20% to 30% increase in their annual premiums after a single speeding ticket. For a driver paying 1,200 per year, this could mean an additional 240 to $360 annually.
Points on Your License: Risk of Suspension
Georgia uses a point system to track traffic violations. Speeding tickets add points to your license:
- 1-14 mph over: 2 points
- 15-18 mph over: 2 points
- 19-23 mph over: 3 points
- 24-33 mph over: 4 points
- 34 mph or more over: 6 points
Accumulating 15 points within 24 months can result in license suspension. Drivers under 21 face stricter rules, with suspension possible after accumulating just 4 points.
Legal Fees: Cost of Hiring an Attorney
If you decide to fight the ticket, hiring a traffic attorney can cost anywhere from 200 to 800, depending on the complexity of your case. While this is an additional expense, it may be worth it if you can avoid the ticket, prevent insurance increases, or reduce the number of points on your license.
Defensive Driving Courses: A Potential Cost-Saver
Completing a defensive driving course can help offset some of the costs of a speeding ticket. In Georgia, you may be able to:
- Reduce the fine by up to 20%.
- Avoid points on your license (one-time option every 5 years).
- Prevent insurance increases by demonstrating a commitment to safe driving.
Courses typically cost between 50 and 100, making them a cost-effective option for many drivers.
Total Cost Breakdown: A Real-World Example
Let’s consider a hypothetical scenario for a driver ticketed for going 20 mph over the limit in Fulton County:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Base Fine | $150 |
| Super Speeder Fee | $200 |
| Court Costs | $100 |
| Insurance Increase | $300/year |
| Total First Year | $750 |
FAQs
Can I avoid paying the Super Speeder fee?
+No, the Super Speeder fee is mandatory for tickets that qualify. Failure to pay can result in license suspension.
How long does a speeding ticket stay on my record in Georgia?
+Points from a speeding ticket remain on your driving record for 2 years, but the ticket itself stays on your record for 7 years.
Will my insurance company find out about my speeding ticket?
+Yes, insurance companies regularly check driving records, and a speeding ticket will likely lead to higher premiums.
Can I attend defensive driving school more than once?
+You can attend defensive driving school once every 5 years to remove points from your license.
Conclusion: Prevention is the Best Strategy
While understanding the costs of a speeding ticket in Georgia is important, the best approach is to avoid them altogether. Adhering to speed limits, staying aware of road conditions, and using technology like GPS apps to monitor your speed can save you hundreds—if not thousands—of dollars in the long run. If you do receive a ticket, weigh your options carefully and consider the long-term financial implications before deciding how to proceed.
