[GA] Is driving even slightly over a 20 mph speed limit considered speeding?

I understand that you're concerned about speeding and the implications it may have. Can you tell me if you received a ticket, or are you just trying to understand the laws regarding speed limits?

Are you inquiring about a specific location or state where this speeding incident occurred?

Is there anything else the lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured, they'll be able to help with Georgia speeding laws.

Hey there! Welcome to our service. I'm an attorney with many years of experience. I understand you're looking to understand the laws regarding speeding in Georgia, specifically when the speed limit is 20 mph.

Based on your situation, there are several legal considerations and laws in Georgia that could support your understanding of speeding regulations.

In Georgia, the basic speeding law prohibits driving at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions, having regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing. This means that even if the speed limit is 20 mph, driving at a speed that is unsafe for the conditions could still be considered speeding.

Georgia also has absolute speed limits, which means that if you drive over the posted speed limit, you are in violation of the law. For example, if the speed limit is 20 mph and you drive at 21 mph or more, you are technically speeding.

Additionally, Georgia has a super speeder law, which imposes an additional fine for drivers convicted of speeding at 75 mph or more on a two-lane road or 85 mph or more on any road or highway.

Let's dive into the speeding laws in Georgia, especially when the speed limit is 20 mph.

1. Basic Speeding Law: In Georgia, the basic speeding law (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-180) requires drivers to operate their vehicles at a speed that is reasonable and prudent under the conditions. This means that even if the speed limit is 20 mph, you must adjust your speed according to road conditions, weather, and traffic.
2. Absolute Speed Limits: Georgia enforces absolute speed limits (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-181). If the posted speed limit is 20 mph, driving at 21 mph or more is considered speeding. This is straightforward: exceeding the posted limit is a violation.
3. Super Speeder Law: Georgia has a super speeder law (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-189) that imposes additional fines for drivers convicted of speeding at 75 mph or more on a two-lane road or 85 mph or more on any road or highway. While this may not directly apply to a 20 mph zone, it's important to be aware of this law for other situations.
4. Potential Consequences: Speeding violations can lead to fines, points on your driving record (O.C.G.A. § 40-5-57), and increased insurance rates. In some cases, excessive speeding can result in more severe penalties, including license suspension.
5. Defensive Driving Courses: If you receive a speeding ticket, attending a defensive driving course (O.C.G.A. § 40-5-86) might help reduce points on your record or lower fines. It's worth considering if you find yourself in this situation.