Speeding Camera Tickets In South Dakota: Do You Pay?

If you've been caught speeding in South Dakota, you'll likely be issued a traffic ticket. The cost of a speeding ticket in South Dakota depends on how much you exceeded the speed limit. For example, if you were driving 1-5 mph over the limit, you'll pay $97.50, while driving 26 or more mph over the limit will cost you $232.50. Speeding in a construction zone will result in doubled fines. You can pay your speeding ticket online, by mail, or in person at the traffic court in the county where the ticket was issued. While you may be tempted to ignore a speeding ticket, failure to resolve it can lead to more severe penalties and consequences.

South Dakota speeding ticket costs

Speeding ticket costs in South Dakota vary depending on the location and severity of the violation. The state has two types of speeding laws: "absolute limits" and a "basic speeding law." Absolute speed limits are specific speeds that are posted for different types of roads and areas, such as 25 miles per hour in urban areas and 55 miles per hour on most township roads. The basic speeding law prohibits driving at a speed that is "greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions then existing." This means that motorists must adjust their speed according to the conditions, such as weather and visibility, to ensure they are driving at a safe speed.

The cost of a speeding ticket in South Dakota depends on how much a driver exceeds the posted speed limit. According to the state's official website, the fee schedule for speeding tickets is as follows:

• 1-5 mph over the limit: $97.50
• 6-10 mph over the limit: $117.50
• 11-15 mph over the limit: $137.50
• 16-20 mph over the limit: $157.50
• 21-25 mph over the limit: $177.50
• 26 or more mph over the limit: $232.50

Speeding in a construction zone will result in doubled fines, ranging from $116.50 to $386.50. Other violations, such as drag racing and failing to meet the minimum speed on a highway, can also incur additional fees.

In addition to the base fine, there are also court fees associated with speeding tickets in South Dakota. The total cost of a speeding ticket, including court fees, can range from $97.50 to $232.50 or more, depending on the severity of the violation.

It is important to note that speeding tickets in South Dakota can also have other consequences beyond the financial cost. Speeding violations can add points to a motorist's driving record, and accumulating 15 points within a year or 22 points within two years can result in a driver's license suspension or revocation. Additionally, insurance premiums may increase after a speeding conviction, with rates surging by up to 15% on average.

Fighting a speeding ticket

If you've received a speeding ticket in South Dakota, you might be feeling angry and confused, but it's important to remember that you have the right to fight it. While you may be tempted to simply pay the fine and move on, doing so is considered an admission of guilt and can result in strict penalties and higher insurance rates.

Know the Law

Before deciding to fight your speeding ticket, it's important to understand South Dakota's speeding laws and the potential consequences. South Dakota has two types of speeding laws: "absolute limits" and a "basic speeding law." Absolute limits refer to the maximum speed limits posted on roads, and violating these limits is a clear-cut case. On the other hand, the basic speeding law prohibits driving at a speed that is "greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions then existing." This means that even if you're driving within the speed limit, you can still be ticketed if the conditions warrant a slower speed.

Act Quickly

In South Dakota, you must respond to a traffic ticket within 15 days of receiving it. You'll need to submit a plea of guilty or not guilty. If you plan to fight the ticket, you'll want to start building your case as soon as possible.

Weigh the Options

Hire a Lawyer

Speeding laws in South Dakota are complex, so it's highly recommended to hire a lawyer who specializes in speeding ticket cases. A good lawyer will have a successful track record of defending and winning these types of cases. They can guide you through the court process, help you build your case, and improve your chances of a favourable outcome.

Know Your Rights

Be aware that you have the right to a fair defence in court. You also have the right to negotiate with the prosecuting officer to settle the dispute out of court. If you can reach a bargain, the case can be dismissed, and any points on your driver's license can be cleared.

In conclusion, while receiving a speeding ticket in South Dakota can be frustrating, you have the right to fight it. By understanding the law, acting quickly, weighing your options, hiring a lawyer, and knowing your rights, you can effectively navigate the process and increase your chances of a successful outcome.

Speeding ticket consequences

Speeding is a class 2 misdemeanour in South Dakota and carries a fine plus court fees. The total amount of the fine and fees depends on how much the driver exceeded the speed limit:

• $97.50 for exceeding the speed limit by one to five miles per hour
• $117.50 for exceeding the speed limit by six to ten miles per hour
• $137.50 for exceeding the speed limit by 11 to 15 miles per hour
• $157.50 for exceeding the speed limit by 16 to 20 miles per hour
• $177.50 for exceeding the speed limit by 21 to 25 miles per hour
• $232.50 for exceeding the speed limit by at least 26 miles per hour

Fines for speeding violations in construction zones are doubled.

While South Dakota has a points system for moving violations, speeding violations do not add points to a motorist's license. However, all speeding violations are reported on a motorist's driving record and can result in higher insurance rates.

If a motorist causes the death of another person while speeding, vehicular homicide charges are possible.

Online speeding ticket payments

If you've received a speeding ticket in South Dakota, you may be wondering what your options are. It's important to understand the consequences of a speeding ticket, which go beyond just the fine printed on it. A speeding ticket can lead to increased insurance rates and other penalties.

In South Dakota, speeding is classified as a Class 2 misdemeanour, and drivers will have to pay a fine plus court fees. The total amount varies depending on how much you exceeded the speed limit:

• $97.50 for exceeding the speed limit by one to five miles per hour
• $117.50 for exceeding the speed limit by six to ten miles per hour
• $137.50 for exceeding the speed limit by 11 to 15 miles per hour
• $157.50 for exceeding the speed limit by 16 to 20 miles per hour
• $177.50 for exceeding the speed limit by 21 to 25 miles per hour
• $232.50 for exceeding the speed limit by at least 26 miles per hour

It's worth noting that South Dakota has two types of speeding laws: "absolute limits" and a "basic speeding law." Absolute limits refer to specific speed limits, such as 55 miles per hour on township roads or 65 miles per hour on state highways. On the other hand, the basic speeding law prohibits driving at a speed that is "greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions then existing." This means that even if you're within the absolute speed limit, you can still get a ticket if the conditions require a slower speed, such as in a construction zone or bad weather.

While South Dakota does have a driver's license points system, they don't assign points for speeding violations. However, speeding tickets will still be reported on your driving record, and you will have to deal with higher insurance rates.

If you receive a speeding ticket, you have the option to fight it in court. This may be a wise investment, as winning your case can help you avoid increased insurance rates and keep your driving record clear. It's recommended to seek legal assistance from a speeding ticket lawyer who specialises in South Dakota speeding laws to guide you through the process.

In terms of online resources, there are various websites that provide information on South Dakota speeding laws and potential consequences. Additionally, some websites offer directories of speeding ticket lawyers in the state, allowing you to find legal representation that suits your needs. Remember, each state has different speeding laws and penalties, so it's important to understand the specific regulations in South Dakota.

Speeding ticket points

South Dakota has a points system for driving offences, but it does not assign points for speeding. However, speeding violations are still reported on your driving record, and a speeding ticket conviction will result in higher insurance rates.

The South Dakota Legislature has passed laws targeting civil fines from automated traffic systems, barring state officials from giving full driver registration information to Redflex, the maker of the speed cameras. However, Sioux City police officers can still reach out to South Dakota dispatchers for information needed for criminal enforcement.

While speeding violations do not carry points in South Dakota, other moving violations do:

• Ignoring a stop sign/red light – 3 points
• Improper passing – 4 points
• Reckless driving – 6 points

Earning 15 points within a year or 22 points within 24 months will result in a driver's license suspension.

The cost of a speeding ticket in South Dakota depends on how much the speed limit was exceeded:

• $97.50 for exceeding the speed limit by one to five miles per hour
• $117.50 for exceeding the speed limit by six to ten miles per hour
• $137.50 for exceeding the speed limit by 11 to 15 miles per hour
• $157.50 for exceeding the speed limit by 16 to 20 miles per hour
• $177.50 for exceeding the speed limit by 21 to 25 miles per hour
• $232.50 for exceeding the speed limit by at least 26 miles per hour

Fines for speeding in construction zones are doubled.

Frequently asked questions