By: Larry Kohn, Experienced Atlanta Traffic Lawyer Near Me
Understanding your options is crucial if you’ve received your first speeding ticket in Georgia. Atlanta traffic lawyer Larry Kohn explains what to do after getting a Georgia speeding ticket, how to check if that ticket requires a traffic court appearance, and the license point consequences imposed by GA DDS for a traffic ticket in GA.
What to Do After Getting a Speeding Ticket in Georgia
If you’ve received your first speeding ticket in Georgia, taking the right steps can help minimize penalties and protect your driving record.
Review Your Ticket for Accuracy
Errors on a ticket could impact the outcome of your case. Check for mistakes in:
- Name and driver’s license number
- Vehicle details
- Speed recorded vs. posted speed limit
- Date, time, and location of the offense
If you find inaccuracies, they could be a factor in contesting the citation.
Understand Response Deadlines
You typically have 30 days to respond to a traffic ticket. Failing to act within this timeframe may result in additional fines or license suspension.
What Happens When You Get Your First Speeding Ticket in Georgia?
A traffic citation in Georgia may carry financial penalties, license points, and increased insurance rates. Understanding these potential consequences can help you make an informed decision.
Fines & Additional Costs
- According to OCGA 40-6-1, fines for a first-time speeding ticket in Georgia vary based on how much over the speed limit you were driving. In some cases, additional court fees and surcharges may apply.
- Georgia has a law called the Super Speeder Law (OCGA 40-6-189). This law charges a $200 fee. The fee applies to drivers who exceed 75 mph on a two-lane road. It also applies to those who go over 85 mph on any road. Failure to pay this surcharge may result in license suspension.
- Fines may vary based on speed over the limit:
| Speed Over Limit (mph) | Fine Amount (Up to) |
| 1-5 | No fine |
| 6-10 | $25 |
| 11-14 | $100 |
| 15-18 | $125 |
| 19-23 | $150 |
| 24-33 | $500 |
| 34+ | Determined by court |
License Points & Suspension
Georgia uses a point system to track violations. Accumulating 15 points in 24 months may result in license suspension.
| Speed Over Limit (mph) | Points Added |
| 15-18 | 2 |
| 19-23 | 3 |
| 24-33 | 4 |
| 34+ | 6 |
Impact on Insurance Rates
Even a minor traffic citation in Georgia could increase insurance premiums, particularly for young or high-risk drivers. Some insurers may increase rates by hundreds of dollars per year for a single speeding offense. According to autoinsurance.com, insurance premiums may increase 11-35% after a speeding ticket.
Can I Just Pay My Ticket and Not Go to Court in Georgia?
Many drivers wonder, how long do you have to pay a speeding ticket in Georgia, and whether a court appearance is necessary. The answer may depend on the nature of the offense.
Paying Your Ticket
Most minor traffic violations allow you to pay the fine online, by mail, or in person without attending court. However, paying a ticket is generally considered an admission of guilt and may result in points on your license.
When a Court Appearance May Be Required
A court appearance may be mandatory, depending on the court’s discretion and the severity of the offense. These may include:
- Speeding 24+ mph over the limit
- Reckless driving
- Violations in school or construction zones
Failing to appear in court when required could result in additional fines and penalties.
How Do I Find Out If I Got a Ticket in Georgia?
If you suspect you received a ticket but are unsure, there are multiple ways to confirm your status.
Checking the Status of Your Citation
- Use Your Assigned Court’s Online Payment Portal – Some courts offer online portals to check for outstanding tickets.
- Check Your Mail – Courts typically send notices with fine details and court dates.
- Contact the Local Courthouse – If you cannot find your ticket online, calling or visiting the court handling your case may provide more information.
Should I Be Worried About My First Speeding Ticket?
If you’re facing your first speeding ticket in Georgia, you may wonder about the long-term impact. The severity of your violation may determine the consequences.
Mandatory Court Appearance for Traffic Ticket in Georgia
If your ticket requires a mandatory court appearance, preparing may be essential. Missing your court date could result in additional fines, license suspension, or a bench warrant.
Considering Defensive Driving Courses
A defensive driving course may help mitigate penalties for a speeding violation.
Benefits of Completing a Course
- Reduce License Points – Depending on court approval; some drivers may qualify to remove up to 7 points every 5 years, according to OCGA 40-5-86.
- Lower Fines – Some courts may allow fine reductions upon completion.
- Insurance Discounts – Some insurers may offer lower premiums for drivers completing a DDS-certified course.
- Where to Enroll – Approved Driver Improvement programs can be found on Georgia’s Department of Driver Services (DDS) website.
Seeking Legal Assistance
How a Lawyer May Help
An attorney may be able to:
- Identify errors that could be used in contesting a ticket.
- Negotiate potential reductions in fines or points.
- Represent you in court to seek the best possible outcome.
While dismissal may be possible, results often depend on court discretion, available evidence, and individual driving history.
Speak With an Atlanta Traffic Lawyer About Your First Traffic Ticket
A speeding ticket in Georgia may have long-term consequences. Some first-time offenders may qualify for traffic school or reduced penalties.
Time is limited—contact us now at 404-567-5515 for a FREE case review and learn your options before your deadline expires.