Speeding Over 100 MPH in California (CVC 22348b)
Getting caught going over 100 mph is one of the most serious speeding violations in California. The stakes are high—but so are the reasons to fight it.
CVC 22348(b) Quick Facts
Understanding CVC 22348(b)
California Vehicle Code 22348(b) specifically addresses driving over 100 mph on a highway. It carries enhanced penalties compared to regular speeding because of the increased danger at extreme speeds.
Penalties for First Offense
- Base fine: $500
- Total with fees: Approximately $900-$1,000
- DMV points: 2 points (stays on record 7 years)
- License suspension: Court may suspend for up to 30 days
- Insurance: Expect 50-100% rate increase
Penalties for Second Offense (Within 3 Years)
- Fine: $1,000+ with fees
- License suspension: Court may suspend for up to 6 months
- Points: 2 additional points
Penalties for Third Offense (Within 5 Years)
- License suspension: Court may suspend for up to 1 year
- Possible "negligent operator" status
Important: Traffic school is NOT available for CVC 22348(b). The 2 points cannot be masked. This makes fighting the ticket even more important.
Why You Should Fight This Ticket
With no traffic school option, a conviction means:
- 2 points on your record for 7 years (not 3)
- Insurance increases of 50-100% for years
- Possible license suspension
- $900+ in immediate costs
- Total cost over 7 years: potentially $5,000-$10,000+
Even reducing the charge to regular speeding (1 point, 3 years) can save thousands.
Defense Strategies
1. Challenge the Speed Measurement
At 100+ mph, even small measurement errors matter:
- Radar/LIDAR calibration must be current and documented
- Officer must be properly certified
- Distance and angle affect accuracy
- If you were clocked at 101-102 mph, margin of error may put you under 100
2. Request Reduction to Standard Speeding
Sometimes prosecutors will agree to reduce the charge to CVC 22349 (regular speeding over 65), which means:
- 1 point instead of 2
- 3 years on record instead of 7
- Traffic school eligibility
- Lower fine
3. Challenge the "Highway" Designation
CVC 22348(b) applies specifically to highways. If the road doesn't meet the legal definition of a highway, the enhanced penalties may not apply.
4. Speed Survey Defense
If radar was used on a road requiring a speed survey, and the survey is expired, the radar evidence may be inadmissible—even for 100+ mph.
5. Trial by Written Declaration
Even for serious violations, TBWD can work. The officer must still submit written testimony, and many don't—especially for tickets that seem "open and shut."
Fight Your 100+ MPH Ticket for $49
With so much at stake, fighting is essential. TicketFight AI generates a professional defense targeting the specific weaknesses in your case.
- Challenges speed measurement accuracy
- No court appearance required
- 100% money-back guarantee if not dismissed
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I definitely lose my license?
No. License suspension is discretionary, not automatic. Judges consider factors like your driving history, the circumstances, and whether you show remorse. A clean record and good presentation can help avoid suspension.
Should I hire a lawyer for this?
Consider it if you're facing license suspension or have prior violations. For a first offense with a clean record, Trial by Written Declaration may be sufficient. Start with TicketFight and escalate to an attorney if needed for Trial de Novo.
What if I was going way over 100 (like 120+)?
The penalty is the same whether you were going 101 or 150 mph—it's all CVC 22348(b). However, judges may be less lenient with extreme speeds. Still worth fighting, as reducing to standard speeding saves significant money.
Can this become a reckless driving charge?
Speed alone isn't reckless driving. However, if combined with weaving, racing, or other dangerous behavior, you could face additional charges. A standalone 100+ mph ticket is still an infraction.