If you were caught speeding 100 mph, you’re facing serious consequences under California law.
At Bigger & Harman, we know how stressful this can be, and we want to guide you through your next steps.
What Happens If You’re Convicted of Speeding Over 100 MPH?
The penalties are no small matter. Here’s what can happen:
- Fines: Base fines start at nearly $500. With surcharges, assessments, and fees, you could pay $859 to $2,137.
- License Suspension: Judges often suspend licenses on the spot for a period of 30 days.
- NOTS Points: Two DMV NOTS points will remain on your record for up to seven years.
- Insurance Premiums: A conviction could double or even triple your rates.
These penalties can upend daily life, from commuting to work to caring for family.
Why You Should Not Fight Alone
We’ve seen many drivers in Santa Barbara County try to represent themselves.
Unfortunately, a speeding ticket for traveling 100 mph or more is among the toughest to defend successfully without professional help.
A lawyer can:
- Appear in court on your behalf when attendance is mandatory.
- Challenge the RADAR, LIDAR, or pacing evidence if errors are present.
- Possibly lower your violation to one point.
- Work to protect your driving privileges and clean record.
When you face these rigid consequences is not the time to go it alone. If you unknowingly admit guilt, it could cost you tens of thousands of dollars in increased auto insurance over the next seven years.
What Should I Do If I Get Caught Speeding 100 MPH?
That’s a question many drivers are now asking Siri or Google after being stopped. The short answer: contact a lawyer immediately.
You do not want to face a Santa Maria traffic court judge alone.
Local Hot Spots for Tickets in Santa Barbara County
We regularly see tickets from Highway 246 near Santa Rosa Road, especially on commuter stretches.
There is almost always construction in and around Gaviota, Gaviota State Beach, Hollister Ranch, and Gaviota Tunnel. Remember, the fines for speeding tickets in construction areas are doubled.
Highway 101 through Santa Maria is the busiest roadway in the region, making it a frequent target for enforcement.
According to the Santa Maria Public Works Department, more than 40,000 vehicles pass through the intersection of Betteravia Road and Highway 101 daily.
The City of Santa Maria is considering the approval of an agreement with Caltrans to fund the Highway 101/Betteravia Road Interchange Project Study Report soon. So, there’s likely more construction on the way in this area.
Your Mandatory Court Appearance
Unlike a minor infraction, a speeding 100+ mph citation requires a mandatory court appearance—either by you or your attorney.
The Santa Maria Courthouse (Miller Division) takes these cases seriously. If you fail to appear, you could face a misdemeanor charge for Failure to Appear (FTA) and even a bench warrant.
How a Lawyer Can Reduce the Impact
Some drivers believe that paying the fine resolves the matter, but that’s rarely the case.
The real cost starts when the DMV assesses negligent operator treatment system (NOTS) points and your insurance skyrockets—and then, there’s the potential license suspension. An attorney may be able to reduce the violation or negotiate alternatives with the court successfully.
Our team at Bigger & Harman is well-versed in local procedures in Santa Maria. We know what works with judges and what doesn’t. That local knowledge matters.
Caught Speeding 100+ MPH? Hire a Speeding Ticket Lawyer
When your license, freedom, and finances are at risk, you need trusted legal representation. At Bigger & Harman, we focus on defending those speeding 100+ mph tickets in the Santa Maria Courthouse.
We can appear on your behalf, fight to reduce penalties, and work towards protecting your future. Whether your ticket was written on US Route 101 through Santa Maria or Highway 246, we know the roads and the courts.
Don’t face this alone—hire a speeding ticket lawyer you can trust. Contact us today to discuss your case and make an informed decision.
Contact Bigger & Harman, APC, Speeding Ticket Lawyers If Caught Speeding 100+ MPH in Santa Maria, CA
If you’re caught speeding 100+ mph around Santa Maria, you’ll need a knowledgeable and experienced speeding ticket lawyer. Call Bigger & Harman, APC, about representing you in Santa Maria Courthouse (Miller Division) at (661) 349-9300 or 349-9755 (Se habla Español).
Bigger & Harman regularly defends clients in Santa Maria Courthouse (Miller Division). You can reach out through our contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
Click here to download a free copy of our eBook, 4 Unknown Consequences of Driving Over 100 MPH.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section
Q: How much is the fine for being caught speeding 100+ mph in California?
A: Although the CA Vehicle Code says, “…a fine not to exceed $500,” with the State and county surcharges and assessments, expect to pay $859 to $2,137.
Q: How much will my insurance go up if I’m convicted?
A: Although the amount varies depending on the multiple factors auto insurance providers use, many see their premiums double or triple after a conviction for speeding 100+ mph.
Q: What if I were caught speeding 100 mph in a construction zone?
A: Fines are nearly doubled in construction areas. Therefore, you can expect to pay near the high end of the scale at $2,137. A speeding ticket lawyer can fight for dismissal or sometimes get the speed reduced to below 100 mph if the radar is within the margin of error. However, there are no guarantees, and it is up to the judge.
References:
The CA Driver Handbook English y Español.
CA VC Section 22348, Speed Laws & Section 40508, Release Upon Promise to Appear.
The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2025.