Getting a speeding ticket is like lighting your hard earned money on fire; it comes out of your checkbook, but you will not realize any reward. A recent study presented by the National Motorists Association ranked Georgia number two, tied with Nevada, on the chart for highest speeding ticket rates. Florida was ranked number one while Texas and Alabama followed behind to complete slots four and five.
It appears that law enforcement officers are going to spend significantly more time on the Georgia highways with their radar detectors. They were out in high numbers over the Labor Day weekend, one of the busiest weekends for roadway travel.
Not only are officers paying more attention to speeders, but they are also focusing on drivers under the influence of alcohol and motorists who are not wearing their seatbelts. Lt. Tom Jackson with the Dougherty County Police warned motorists of the state's intent by stating, "We'll have our patrols out in the evening hours."
It is important to map out your route when taking a trip and to give yourself plenty of time to get there. Your destination is not going to go anywhere, but you could sour a perfectly good trip if you are forced to pay a couple hundred dollars in fines you were not expecting.
If you should run into trouble, do not shy away from the court date listed on the ticket. You are always given a number of days before you have to pay the fine, so consult a criminal attorney who can take a look at your situation and represent your side of the story.
Source: WALBnews, "Speeders beware," Tayleigh Davis, 9/3/10
