A 4-point speeding ticket in South Carolina adds significant points to your driving record and can lead to higher insurance rates.
If you accumulate too many points, your license could be suspended. Paying the ticket may seem like the easiest option, but it is an admission of guilt that can have long-term consequences. At Chambers Law, we fight traffic violations to protect your record and your ability to drive.
Call 843-449-0420 today for a free consultation.
What Is a 4-Point Speeding Ticket?
In South Carolina, a 4-point speeding violation is typically issued for:
- Driving 11-24 mph over the posted speed limit
- Speeding in school zones or construction areas
- Exceeding posted limits in heavily patrolled areas
These violations carry more severe penalties than a 2-point speeding ticket and can quickly add up toward a potential license suspension.
South Carolina’s Point System and License Suspension
The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) assigns penalty points to traffic violations. If you accumulate 12 or more points, your license will be suspended:
- 2 points – Minor speeding offense (1-10 mph over the limit)
- 4 points – Speeding 11-24 mph over the limit
- 6 points – Speeding 25+ mph over the limit
- 12+ points – Automatic license suspension
While points are cut in half after one year, they still affect your insurance rates and may lead to more severe consequences for future violations
How the South Carolina Point System Works
South Carolina assigns penalty points for traffic violations. Reckless driving is a six-point offense, meaning:
- Six points – One reckless driving conviction can put you halfway to license suspension
- 12 or more points – Automatic driver’s license suspension
Points are reduced by half after one year, but accumulating new points can quickly lead to another suspension.
Penalties for a 4-Point Speeding Ticket
In addition to points on your driving record, penalties for a 4-point speeding ticket may include:
- Fines ranging from $150 to $300, depending on the location
- Increased auto insurance premiums
- Mandatory traffic school for repeat offenders
- Potential suspension if you have prior violations
Why You Should Fight a 4-Point Speeding Ticket
Many drivers assume they should just pay the fine and move on, but doing so can cost you much more in the long run. Fighting a speeding ticket may help you:
- Reduce or eliminate points on your record
- Prevent insurance rate increases
- Avoid license suspension if you already have prior violations
- Challenge inaccurate radar readings or officer errors
Common Defenses Against Speeding Tickets
At Chambers Law, we build strong defenses to challenge speeding violations, including:
- Radar Gun Inaccuracy: Speed detection devices must be calibrated and used correctly.
- Officer Mistakes: If the officer misidentified your vehicle or made an error in issuing the ticket, it could be dismissed.
- Improper Signage: If the speed limit signs were missing, unclear, or obstructed, you may have a valid defense.
- Necessity Defense: In some cases, speeding may be justified (such as a medical emergency).
How Chambers Law Can Help
At Chambers Law, we take an aggressive approach to defending drivers against speeding tickets. Our firm:
- Examines law enforcement records and radar calibration logs
- Negotiates with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges
- Represents clients in court to fight for a favorable outcome
- Works to keep your driving record clean
