v

Request a Free Consultation

En Español

Call or Text for a Free Consultation: 480-280-8028

v

Request a Free Consultation

Law Offices of David A. Black logo

En Español

  1. Blog
  2. Traffic
  3. Criminal Speeding in Arizona

Criminal Speeding in Arizona

Oct 7, 2022 | Traffic

Most people assume that when you get a traffic ticket – for running a red light, for example, that the potential penalty is a fine, and maybe you’ll take a hit on your auto insurance. In fact, there are motor vehicle violations, in addition to DUI, of course, that are misdemeanors, which means that they are criminal offenses. Many people were therefore surprised last month when Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Marquise “Hollywood” Brown was stopped by the police for allegedly traveling 126 miles per hour in a 50 mph zone.

Unlike the usual traffic ticket, where the police officer hands you a copy and sends you on your way, Brown was arrested and brought to the Maricopa County Jail, where he remained until he was released on his own recognizance. For those who don’t know, A.R.S. 28-701.02 says that if you go 35 mph approaching a school crossing, or exceed the posted speed limit by more than 20 mph (or exceed 45 where no speed limit is posted), you can be charged with a class 3 misdemeanor. That’s a criminal charge. In addition to a hefty fine and surcharge, you could be sentenced to up to 30 days in jail and a year of probation.

One other note. Speeding is not the only traffic violation that can lead criminal charges. Reckless driving is generally a class 2 misdemeanor. And aggressive driving – speeding combined with at least two other offenses (unsafe lane change and tailgating, among others) – the charge is a class 1 misdemeanor. The potential penalties are significant, including extended jail time.

So far, we have seen no news on the outcome of Brown’s speeding charge, but we’ll be watching to see how the case turns out.

Law Offices of David A. Black
40 North Central Avenue #1850
Phoenix, AZ 85004
(480) 280-8028