CVC 22348(b): Driving Over 100 MPH in California
Serious Violation Warning
CVC 22348(b) is one of the most serious speeding violations in California. It carries enhanced penalties including potential license suspension. Fighting this ticket is critical to protect your driving privileges.
A CVC 22348(b) citation for driving over 100 MPH is far more serious than a standard speeding ticket. The penalties are severe, but there are defense strategies that can help protect your license and record.
Understanding CVC 22348(b)
California Vehicle Code Section 22348(b) specifically addresses excessive speed:
"A person who drives a vehicle upon a highway at a speed greater than 100 miles per hour is guilty of an infraction..."
Penalties for CVC 22348(b)
First Offense
A first offense carries fines up to $900 (with court fees often totaling over $1,000), plus 2 points on your DMV record. Unlike standard speeding tickets, traffic school is not an option to mask the violation. The judge also has discretion to suspend your license for up to 30 days.
Repeat Offenses
A second offense within 3 years can result in a license suspension of up to 6 months, though a restricted license may be possible. A third offense within 5 years escalates to a potential 1-year suspension and possible misdemeanor charges.
The True Cost
| Cost Factor | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fine + Court Fees | $900-$1,500 |
| Insurance Increase (3-5 years) | Set by your insurer |
| Lost Wages (if license suspended) | Variable |
| Potential Total | Not published |
Defense Strategies
Challenging Speed Measurement Accuracy
At 100+ MPH, even small measurement errors matter significantly. Radar devices have a typical error margin of 1-2 MPH. If the calibration was off, a reading of 100 could actually have been 98. LIDAR requires extremely steady aim, which becomes difficult when targeting fast-moving vehicles. And pacing at speeds over 100 MPH is almost impossible to do with any accuracy, which makes it highly challengeable.
2. Question the Officer's Training
Speed detection at high speeds requires specialized training:
- Was the officer properly certified on the equipment?
- When was their last training/recertification?
- Did they follow proper high-speed detection protocols?
3. Speedometer Calibration Defense
If your speedometer was malfunctioning, you may have a defense:
- Get your speedometer professionally calibrated
- Document any discrepancy between indicated and actual speed
- This shows lack of intent to exceed 100 MPH
4. Necessity Defense
In rare cases, emergency circumstances may provide a defense:
- Medical emergency requiring rapid transport
- Escaping immediate danger or threat
- Must prove no reasonable alternative existed
Court Appearance Required
Unlike minor speeding tickets, CVC 22348(b) typically requires a mandatory court appearance. However, a Trial by Written Declaration may still be available in some jurisdictions as a first step. If unsuccessful, you'll proceed to an in-person trial.
Get Professional Defense Help
Given the severity of CVC 22348(b), a strong defense is essential. TicketFight AI generates detailed defense arguments that challenge speed measurement accuracy, officer procedures, and equipment calibration, so you have the best chance to avoid license suspension and steep insurance increases.
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Frequently asked questions
What happens if you drive over 100 MPH in California?
CVC 22348(b) is listed in the 2026 schedule at a $200 base and $896 total with 2 DMV points. A first offence can also carry a license suspension, and many courts require a personal appearance rather than allowing bail forfeiture. There is no single premium increase that applies to every driver: insurers file their own rating plans and price a conviction differently. Ask your insurer or broker what this violation would do to your policy.
Is driving over 100 MPH a misdemeanor in California?
CVC 22348(b) is typically an infraction, not a misdemeanor. However, if combined with reckless driving or if it's a repeat offense, it can be charged as a misdemeanor with potential jail time.
Can I fight a 100 MPH speeding ticket in California?
Yes, you can fight a CVC 22348(b) ticket. Defense strategies include challenging speed measurement accuracy, questioning officer training and equipment calibration, and disputing vehicle identification. Given the severity, professional defense is highly recommended.
Will I lose my license for driving over 100 MPH?
A first-time CVC 22348(b) offense can result in a 30-day license suspension. A second offense within 3 years can mean 6 months suspension. Third offense within 5 years can lead to 1 year suspension. The judge has discretion.