Speeding on Bridges in California Vehicle Code 22405
Speed limits are drastically reduced before entering bridges, tunnels, and similar structures
Just about every driver has, at one time or another, probably not paid quite as much attention to those signs as they really should. Then again, sometimes those signs are set in a way which makes them difficult to see or notice, which results in drivers disregarding them simply because they aren’t seen.
Bridges, elevated structures, tunnels and tubes are found on roadways throughout the state of California, and no matter the circumstances, if a police officer believes a driver is exceeding the posted reduced speed limit in these areas, there’s a pretty good chance that driver is going to receive a ticket for violating CVC 22405.
Unorthodox types of roadways need to be approached at reduced speeds because of the quick change to conditions and surroundings. When conditions on roadways change, it elevates the possibility for accidents.
California Vehicle Code 22405 states:
(a) No person shall drive a vehicle on any bridge, elevated structure, tube, or tunnel constituting a part of a highway, at a speed which is greater than the maximum speed which can be maintained with safety to such structure.
(b) Upon the trial of any person charged with a violation of this section with respect to a sign erected under Section 22404, proof of the determination of the maximum speed by the Department of Transportation or local authority and the erection and maintenance of the speed signs shall constitute prima facie evidence of the maximum speed which can be maintained with safety to the bridge, elevated structure, tube, or tunnel.
Penalties and Consequences
Just like other speeding violations, the fines and penalties are assessed based on the alleged speed.
- Speeding 1-15mph over the limit carries a minimum fine of $238
- 16-25mph carries a minimum fine of $367
- 26mph+ or greater carries a minimum fine of $490
In addition to the fine, if you are cited for speeding under CVC 22405, you also risk having a point added to your DMV record.
Who Gets Ticketed?
Most drivers, at some point in their driving life, will receive some kind of traffic ticket.
California is one of the leaders in issuing traffic tickets, so if you drive in the state of California, your chances of receiving one is better than most. That doesn’t mean you’re a bad driver, though.
What it usually means is that you were momentarily distracted by something, or the ticket was issued as a result of a misunderstanding or misinterpretation of your actions by a police officer.
Our team is here to assist with your citation and to help you better understand the options you have available to challenge the case for full dismissal. You can reach out to our team to learn more about you ticket through our free citation review.