Top Excuses People Give for Speeding: What the Law Says

Speeding is a common traffic violation that many drivers rationalize with a variety of excuses. While these reasons might seem valid to the driver, they rarely hold up in court. Below, Tiemann Law Firm explores some of the top excuses people give for speeding and why they often don’t work as a defense.

Common Excuses for Speeding

1. “I Didn’t Realize I Was Speeding”
   • Explanation: Many drivers claim they were unaware of their speed, often blaming distractions or a malfunctioning speedometer.
   • Legal Perspective: Traffic laws require drivers to be aware of their speed and comply with posted limits.
2. “I Was Just Keeping Up with Traffic”
   • Explanation: Drivers sometimes argue that they were speeding to match the flow of traffic and avoid being a hazard.
   • Legal Perspective: The law requires adherence to speed limits regardless of other vehicles’ speeds. If everyone is speeding, it doesn’t make it legal.
3. “I’m Late for an Important Appointment”
   • Explanation: Rushing to a meeting, appointment, or event is a common excuse for exceeding speed limits.
   • Legal Perspective: Planning ahead and leaving earlier to avoid the need to speed is crucial to keep you and others on the road safe.
4. “The Road Was Empty, So I Thought It Was Okay”
   • Explanation: Some drivers believe that if the road is clear, they can safely exceed the speed limit.
   • Legal Perspective: Speed limits are enforced based on road conditions, potential hazards, and safety considerations, not traffic volume.
5. “I Didn’t See the Speed Limit Sign”
   • Explanation: Drivers might claim they missed a speed limit sign or that it was obscured.
   • Legal Perspective: It is your responsibility to be aware of speed limit signs and adjust your speed accordingly.
6. “I Was Just Trying to Pass Someone Quickly”
   • Explanation: Passing another vehicle often leads drivers to speed up momentarily.
   • Legal Perspective: Even if overtaking another vehicle, you must still abide by speed limits.

While drivers often have various excuses for speeding, the law is clear: speed limits must be obeyed regardless of personal circumstances. If you find yourself in need of legal assistance for a speed-related accident, the Sacramento speeding accident attorneys of Tiemann Law Firm are here to provide guidance, support, and peace of mind. Contact us today for a free, same-day consultation by calling (916) 999-9000 or toll-free: (800) 712-2000.