We are now two full months into 2014, and some may have forgotten that a new law went into effect in 2014 which provided for much harsher penalties for excessive speeding.
It used to be that most charges for speeding were considered a petty offense, which meant that the maximum penalty was a small fine.
Beginning in 2014, however, if you are alleged to have been speeding 26 mph to 34 mph over the posted speed limit, the charge is now a Class B misdemeanor. Under Illinois law, if you are found guilty of a Class B misdemeanor, your could be sentenced up to 180 days in the county jail, and fined up to $1500.
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Additionally, starting in 2014, if you are charged with speeding 35 mph or more over the posted speed limit, that charge is now a Class A misdemeanor, under which you can be sentenced to a maximum of 364 days in the county jail and fined up to $2500.
I have noticed on the expressways, especially where the speed limit is 55 mph, many drivers are travelling over 80 mph! Not only is this a safety hazard which can cause serious injuries as a result of a crash; but you can now, under this new law, be sentenced to spend considerable time in county jail, if convicted.
Find out what's happening in Orland Parkwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
For more information and resources, visit our website at payonklaw.com.
