
Originally Posted by
dpt101
Georgia
This morning I was on my way back to school at The University of Georgia after spending the weekend with my family. As with most weekends, I prefer to drive back the following Monday morning to allow myself a good night's rest. However, traffic on the first leg of my drive was heavier than usual and I quickly noted I was on route to miss my advisement after recently changing my major.
I was driving on Hwy 316 East, 2 lanes each way, where the general speed limit is 65. Due to my rush, I was generally moving between 75 and 85, slower when there were other cars around mine. Typically on large highways I haven't had trouble, nor has anybody I know, with going 10 to 15 over. However, as I came in toward Athens, where UGA is located, I passed a sign noting the 55 mph zone. As I noted the sign and began to decelerate, the State Patrol Officer was already behind me. I pulled over, and was given a ticket for 84 in a 55: 29 mph over the limit, in Violation of Code Section 40-6-181
According to Georgia Law, anything between 24 and 34 mph over the limit will give you 4 points on your record. As a driver under 21, these 4 points alone would mean my license will be suspended. I am more frustrated because I am generally a decent driver and have never been given a ticket before, my only time getting pulled over was for not having my headlights on... as the sun was beginning to set...
Generally people have told me that making a nolo or guilty plea would be the best idea as it could mean a reduction in the points and fine, especially considering prior record. I was also told that taking a Defensive Driving course before the court date could be helpful.