Serving People Throughout Colorado

Call Us For Free Consultation:

At the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani, we know that a speeding ticket can feel like a frustrating and unfair interruption to your life. Whether you were rushing to work, keeping pace with traffic, or misjudging a speed limit sign, receiving a citation may lead to fines, license points, and insurance increases. We help you understand your options and determine the best path forward.

As experienced speeding ticket defense lawyers in Denver, we have represented countless drivers and helped them reduce or eliminate the penalties associated with a ticket. This guide explains Colorado’s speeding laws, outlines key defenses, and walks you through what to expect if you decide to fight your ticket.

Understanding Speeding Laws in Colorado

Colorado law distinguishes various types of speeding violations based on how fast the driver was going over the limit. According to Colorado Revised Statutes §42-4-1101:

  • Driving 1 to 24 mph over the limit is a Class A traffic infraction. It generally results in a fine between $15 and $100, which adds points to your license.
  • Driving 25 mph over the speed limit is a Class 2 misdemeanor traffic offense. It is punishable by 10 to 90 days in jail and fines ranging from $150 to $300.
  • Speeding 25 mph or more in a construction zone raises the charge to a Class 1 misdemeanor traffic offense, leading to up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
  • Depending on the severity of the offense, a conviction may result in 3 to 12 points on your driving record.

In Colorado, accumulating 12 points in 12 months or 18 points in 24 months can lead to the suspension of your driver’s license. That is why it is essential to approach speeding tickets seriously and with a solid legal strategy.

Top Defenses We Use to Fight Speeding Tickets

Our Denver speeding ticket defense attorneys have used several legal arguments to defend clients. Every case is unique, and we tailor our strategy based on the details of your situation.

Challenging Radar or Lidar Accuracy

Officers often use radar or Lidar guns to determine a vehicle’s speed. These devices are subject to strict requirements. They must be regularly calibrated and operated by trained officers. If the device malfunctions or is improperly maintained, we can challenge the validity of the results.

We also check whether the officer was certified to use the device and whether weather or traffic conditions may have interfered with the reading.

Arguing Officer Observation Error

Some tickets are issued based on visual estimation, especially in areas with limited radar use. Human error is always a possibility. We evaluate whether the officer had a clear line of sight, whether there were any visual obstructions, and whether other vehicles may have confused the officer’s judgment.

Necessity or Emergency Justification

Colorado allows for a necessity defense if the driver can show that they had to speed to prevent a greater danger. For example, if you were speeding to avoid a collision, respond to a medical emergency, or flee a threat, we may argue that the circumstances justified your actions.

Mistake of Fact

This defense applies when the driver was unaware of a change in the speed limit due to unclear or missing signage. For instance, if vegetation or construction debris covered a speed limit sign, we may introduce photos or witness statements to support a mistake-of-fact claim.

Wrong Vehicle Identified

Officers may incorrectly identify the speeding vehicle in high-traffic areas or situations involving multiple cars. This can occur particularly at night or when the ticket was based on estimation. Surveillance footage, dash cam evidence, or witness testimony can help cast doubt on the officer’s identification.

How We Build a Strong Defense

When you hire us as your ticket defense lawyers in Denver, CO, we take a comprehensive approach to every case. Here is what you can expect:

  • Step 1: Case Review. We begin by reviewing every detail of your ticket, including the officer’s report, the location of the stop, the type of equipment used, and the circumstances surrounding the citation.
  • Step 2: Evidence Collection. Next, we gather supporting evidence. This can include dash cam footage, GPS records, eyewitness statements, photographs of the area, and documentation of speed limit signs or road conditions.
  • Step 3: Legal Research. We examine applicable case law and statutory defenses to determine the most effective legal argument. We also evaluate prior decisions by the traffic court where your hearing will occur.
  • Step 4: Negotiation. We can often negotiate with prosecutors to reduce the charge to a non-moving violation, which carries fewer consequences. If you are eligible, we may also pursue deferred judgment or traffic school in exchange for a dismissal.
  • Step 5: Court Representation. If negotiations fail or you choose to fight the ticket in court, we represent you at all hearings. We cross-examine the officer, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and present a strong defense to the judge.

Common Penalties for Speeding in Denver

Penalties vary based on how much you exceeded the speed limit and the location of the violation. Here is a breakdown:

  • 1 to 4 mph over: $30 fine, 0 points
  • 5 to 9 mph over: $70 fine, 1 point
  • 10 to 19 mph over: $135 fine, 4 points
  • 20 to 24 mph over: $200 fine, 4 points
  • 25 to 39 mph over: $300 fine, 6 points
  • 40+ mph over: Mandatory court appearance, possible jail time

In construction zones, fines double, and the consequences are more severe. Insurance premiums also tend to rise significantly after a speeding conviction.

Benefits of Hiring a Ticket Lawyer in Denver

Many people pay their ticket without contesting it, assuming it is not worth the time or expense to fight. That can be a costly mistake. Hiring an experienced Denver speeding ticket defense attorney can help you:

  • Avoid points on your license
  • Reduce or eliminate fines
  • Keep your insurance rates low
  • Prevent a license suspension
  • Maintain a clean driving record

With our legal guidance, you have a far better chance of achieving a favorable outcome than going it alone.

Realistic Expectations: What Can and Cannot Be Done

While we strive to get your ticket dismissed, every case is different. Some tickets may result in reduced charges rather than complete dismissal. Others may be eligible for probation or deferred judgment. Avoiding penalties altogether may be impossible in rare cases involving serious violations or repeat offenses.

We always give our clients an honest assessment of what to expect and work toward the best possible result.

When to Fight a Speeding Ticket

How Do I Beat a Speeding Ticket

Not every ticket is worth contesting. We recommend fighting your ticket if:

  • You were cited for speeding 15 mph or more over the limit
  • You already have points on your license
  • You were driving in a construction zone or a school zone
  • You believe the officer made a mistake
  • Your insurance rates are already high
  • You hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL)

We will assess the details of your case and advise you on whether it makes sense to fight or settle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I just pay the ticket?

Paying the ticket is considered an admission of guilt. It will result in points on your license, fines, and likely insurance increases. It also waives your right to contest the ticket later.

Do I have to appear in court? In most cases, we can appear on your behalf. We will advise you well in advance if a court appearance is required.

Will traffic school help?

Sometimes, we can negotiate a deal where you take a defensive driving course in exchange for ticket dismissal or point reduction. This depends on your record and the court’s policies.

Can I represent myself?

You have the right to represent yourself, but may not have the legal knowledge to challenge the evidence or negotiate with prosecutors. Working with a seasoned Denver ticket lawyer increases your chances of success.

Call Us Today to Protect Your Record

If you have received a speeding ticket in Denver or the surrounding areas, do not assume that you have no choice but to pay it. Contact the Law Offices of Steven J. Pisani today to speak with a speeding ticket defense lawyer in Denver who will help you fight back. We will examine every aspect of your case and work to protect your record, your wallet, and your future.

Your first consultation is free. Let us help you explore your options and find a smart, effective path forward.

/

Request a FREE Case Review