Tampa Dangerous Excessive Speeding Attorney
If you have been charged with Dangerous Excessive Speeding in Tampa or Hillsborough County, you may be facing much more than a simple speeding ticket. Often referred to as a “super speeder” offense, Dangerous Excessive Speeding under Florida Statute 316.1922 can apply when a person is accused of driving 50 mph or more over the posted speed limit, or driving 100 mph or more in a manner that threatens the safety of others or interferes with traffic. A conviction can result in jail time, expensive fines, a permanent criminal record, and a possible driver’s license revocation for repeat offenses.
At Hunt Law, Tampa dangerous excessive speeding attorney J. Ruffin Hunt aggressively defends individuals accused of criminal traffic offenses throughout Tampa and Hillsborough County. Before entering private practice, Attorney Hunt served as a Division Chief at the Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office, where he gained extensive courtroom experience handling serious criminal and traffic-related cases. If you have been arrested or cited for excessive speeding, super speeding, or any criminal traffic offense in Tampa, contacting an experienced Tampa criminal traffic defense attorney as early as possible can help protect your rights, your driver’s license, and your future.
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Tampa Dangerous Excessive Speeding Lawyer | Florida “Super Speeder” Defense
Most speeding tickets in Florida are handled as civil traffic infractions. However, certain high-speed allegations can now result in a criminal charge known as Dangerous Excessive Speeding. Sometimes referred to as Florida’s “super speeder” law, this offense applies to drivers accused of traveling at extremely high speeds or driving in a way that creates a risk to others on the roadway.
If you have been charged with Dangerous Excessive Speeding in Tampa or Hillsborough County, it is important to understand that you are not simply dealing with a traffic ticket. A conviction under Florida Statute 316.1922 can result in criminal penalties, a permanent criminal record, fines, possible jail time, and driver’s license consequences.
At Hunt Law, Tampa Dangerous Excessive Speeding Attorney J. Ruffin Hunt represents individuals accused of serious criminal traffic offenses throughout Hillsborough County. Before founding Hunt Law, Attorney Hunt served as a Division Chief at the Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office, where he handled thousands of criminal cases and gained extensive courtroom experience defending individuals facing prosecution.
What is Dangerous Excessive Speeding in Florida?
Under Section 316.1922, Florida Statutes, a person commits the offense of Dangerous Excessive Speeding if he or she operates a motor vehicle:
1. In excess of the posted speed limit by 50 miles per hour or more; or
2. At a speed of 100 miles per hour or more in a manner that:
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Threatens the safety of other persons or property; or
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Interferes with the operation of any vehicle.
This means that Dangerous Excessive Speeding cases generally fall into two categories. The first involves allegations that a driver exceeded the speed limit by at least 50 mph. The second involves allegations that a driver reached speeds of 100 mph or more while also driving in a manner that created a safety risk or interfered with traffic.
Because every case depends on the specific facts and circumstances involved, the details matter. The location of the stop, traffic conditions, speed measurement method, officer observations, and available evidence can all play an important role in defending a Dangerous Excessive Speeding charge.
Is Driving Over 100 MPH a Crime in Florida?
Driving over 100 mph does not automatically mean someone is guilty of Dangerous Excessive Speeding under Florida law. The statute requires the State to prove the specific elements of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
For cases involving speeds of 100 mph or more, prosecutors must prove more than speed alone. They must also establish that the driving behavior threatened the safety of other people or property, or interfered with the operation of another vehicle.
Examples of evidence prosecutors may attempt to use include:
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The speed alleged by law enforcement;
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Traffic conditions at the time;
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The presence of nearby vehicles or pedestrians;
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Lane changes or driving behavior;
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Dash camera or body camera footage;
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Speed detection equipment readings; and
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Statements allegedly made during the traffic stop.
An experienced Tampa super speeder attorney can evaluate the evidence and determine whether the State can actually prove each required element.
Penalties for Dangerous Excessive Speeding in Florida
Although Dangerous Excessive Speeding may begin with a traffic stop, the potential consequences are significantly more serious than an ordinary speeding citation.
For a first conviction under Florida Statute 316.1922, the penalties may include:
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Up to 30 days in jail;
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A fine of up to $500; and
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A criminal conviction on your record.
For a second or subsequent conviction, the penalties increase and may include:
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Up to 90 days in jail;
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A fine of up to $1,000; and
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Additional driver’s license consequences.
If a second or subsequent Dangerous Excessive Speeding offense occurs within 5 years of a prior conviction, the court is required to revoke the person’s driving privilege for at least 180 days and up to 1 year.
Defenses to Dangerous Excessive Speeding Charges in Tampa
Being charged with Dangerous Excessive Speeding does not automatically mean you will be convicted. The State has the burden of proving every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
Possible defenses may include challenging:
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Whether the alleged speed was accurate;
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Whether speed measurement equipment was properly maintained or operated;
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Whether the officer properly identified the correct vehicle;
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Whether the driving actually threatened safety or interfered with another vehicle;
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Whether the traffic stop was legally justified; or
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Whether the State has sufficient evidence to prove the charge.
Every case is different, and the available defenses depend on the specific circumstances surrounding the allegation.
Tampa Super Speeder Attorney for Dangerous Excessive Speeding Charges
A Dangerous Excessive Speeding charge can have consequences that extend beyond a typical speeding ticket. A criminal conviction may impact your driving privileges, background checks, employment opportunities, and future.
If you have been cited or arrested for Dangerous Excessive Speeding, driving over 100 mph, or traveling 50 mph over the speed limit in Tampa or Hillsborough County, contact Hunt Law today. Tampa Dangerous Excessive Speeding Attorney J. Ruffin Hunt provides aggressive criminal defense representation focused on protecting your rights, your record, and your future.
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What Are The Elements Of Dangerous Excessive Speeding?
Florida Jury Instruction 28.5(b)
To prove the crime of Dangerous, Excessive Speeding, the State must prove the
following element beyond a reasonable doubt:
(Defendant) operated a motor vehicle [in excess of the speed limit by 50 miles per
hour or more] [or] [at 100 miles per hour or more in a manner that threatened the safety
of other persons or property or interferes with the operation of any vehicle].
§ 316.003, Fla. Stat. Some of these terms have their own statutory definitions, which
should be given if necessary.
“Motor vehicle” means a self-propelled vehicle not operated upon rails or
guideway, but not including any bicycle, electric bicycle, motorized scooter, electric
personal assistive mobility device, mobile carrier, personal delivery device, swamp
buggy, or moped.
“Vehicle” means every device in, upon, or by which any person or property is or
may be transported or drawn upon a highway, except personal delivery devices, mobile
carriers, and devices used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks.
J. Ruffin Hunt
Managing Member, Hunt Law, PLLC.
Attorney J. Ruffin Hunt is a Tampa criminal defense attorney and founder of Hunt Law, a firm focused exclusively on criminal and DUI defense throughout the Tampa Bay area. Born and raised in Tampa, Mr. Hunt earned his degree from the University of Florida before attending Stetson University College of Law. He began his legal career at the Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office, where he gained extensive courtroom and trial experience handling misdemeanor, felony, and DUI cases. Over the course of his career, he rose to leadership positions within the office, serving as a Division Chief in multiple divisions.
Mr. Hunt has dedicated his entire legal career to criminal defense and understands the serious consequences that criminal charges can carry. He represents clients facing a wide range of charges, including DUI, drug offenses, sex crimes, domestic violence allegations, theft crimes, violent offenses, probation violations, and other serious criminal matters. As a former board member of the Hillsborough County Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Mr. Hunt remains committed to protecting the constitutional rights of individuals accused of crimes and providing aggressive, strategic representation for clients throughout Tampa Bay.
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Hunt Law serves clients charged with criminal offenses in Tampa, Brandon, Plant City, Riverview, Ruskin, Lutz, Valrico, Wimauma, Temple Terrace, Seffner, Dover, Thonotosassa, Gibsonton, Sun City Center, Town 'n' Country, Carrollwood, Citrus Park, Westchase, Bloomingdale, University, Progress Village, Lake Magdalene, Egypt Lake-Leto, Greater Northdale, Palm River-Clair Mel, East Lake-Orient Park, Mango, Keystone, Cheval, Balm, Pebble Creek, Apollo Beach, Lithia, Fish Hawk.
Important Hillsborough County Criminal Justice Locations
If you've been arrested in Hillsborough County, your case will likely involve several different locations. Understanding where your case begins and where it will proceed can help reduce confusion during an already stressful time.
Trusted Throughout Hillsborough County
Hunt Law has deep roots in Hillsborough County and remains actively involved in the Tampa Bay community through participation in several respected local and professional organizations. The firm is proud to be associated with the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce, the South Tampa Chamber of Commerce, and the Ybor City Chamber of Commerce, organizations that play an important role in supporting local businesses, economic development, and community engagement throughout the region. As a Tampa native, attorney J. Ruffin Hunt understands the unique needs of individuals and families in Hillsborough County and is committed to serving the community both inside and outside the courtroom. These local affiliations reflect Hunt Law's ongoing commitment to professionalism, community involvement, and providing trusted criminal defense representation to clients throughout all of Hillsborough County.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What happens after an arrest in Tampa?
A: After an arrest in Tampa, you will typically be transported to Orient Road Jail for booking, where law enforcement will fingerprint you, take your photograph, record your personal information, and formally process the charges against you. Within 24 hours of your arrest, you must appear before a judge at First Appearance, where the court will determine whether probable cause existed for your arrest, decide whether to set bond, and impose any conditions of release. During this time, it is important to exercise your right to remain silent, avoid discussing your case with anyone other than your attorney, and refrain from consenting to searches if asked by law enforcement. As your case moves forward, early involvement by an experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney can help protect your constitutional rights, advocate for a favorable bond, preserve important evidence, and begin developing a defense strategy from the outset.
Q: What is a misdemeanor in Florida?
A: A misdemeanor in Florida is a criminal offense that is less serious than a felony but can still result in significant penalties, including jail time, probation, fines, and a permanent criminal record. A misdemeanor is an offense that can result in a term of imprisonment that doesn't exceed 1 year. Florida classifies misdemeanors as either second-degree misdemeanors, which are generally punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine, or first-degree misdemeanors, which can carry up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Common misdemeanor offenses include battery, petit theft, possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting an officer without violence, and disorderly conduct. Although misdemeanors carry lower maximum penalties than felonies, a conviction can still affect employment, professional licensing, housing opportunities, and other aspects of your future. Depending on the facts of the case, it may be possible to obtain a dismissal, diversion, reduced charges, or another favorable resolution, making it important to speak with an experienced Florida criminal defense attorney as early as possible.
Q: What is a felony in Florida?
A: A felony in Florida is a criminal offense punishable by more than one year in state prison and is generally considered more serious than a misdemeanor. Florida classifies felonies into five categories: third-degree, second-degree, first-degree, life felonies, and capital felonies, with penalties ranging from up to five years in prison for many third-degree felonies to life imprisonment for the most serious offenses. Examples of felony crimes include drug trafficking, robbery, aggravated battery, burglary, kidnapping, grand theft, and certain sex offenses. In addition to prison time, a felony conviction can result in substantial fines, probation, the loss of firearm rights, employment and professional licensing consequences, and a permanent criminal record. Depending on the facts of the case, however, felony charges may be reduced, dismissed, resolved through diversion, or successfully challenged at trial, making it important to consult an experienced Florida criminal defense attorney as early as possible.
Q: Do I need a lawyer if charges haven't been filed yet?
A: It can be beneficial. In many cases, hiring a criminal defense attorney before formal charges are filed can be one of the most important decisions you make. Whether you are under investigation, have been contacted by detectives, or were arrested but are still waiting for the State Attorney's Office to decide whether to file charges, an attorney can protect your rights, communicate with law enforcement on your behalf, and help you avoid making statements that could be used against you. Early legal representation also provides an opportunity to present favorable evidence, identify weaknesses in the allegations, address misunderstandings, and advocate for prosecutors not to file charges or to pursue less serious charges when appropriate. Although no attorney can guarantee a particular outcome, getting experienced legal counsel involved as early as possible often creates opportunities that may no longer exist once formal charges have been filed.
Q: What happens if I miss court in Tampa?
A: Missing a court date in Tampa can have serious consequences, including the issuance of a bench warrant for your arrest, revocation of your bond, or stricter release conditions. Whether a warrant is issued often depends on the type of hearing you missed, the underlying criminal charge, whether you are represented by an attorney, and the reason for your absence. While emergencies such as hospitalization, transportation problems, or scheduling errors may help explain a missed appearance, it is important to act quickly before the situation becomes more difficult to resolve. In many cases, an experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney can determine whether a warrant has been issued, file a motion to quash or recall the warrant, explain mitigating circumstances to the court, and work to minimize additional penalties. Ignoring a missed court date typically makes matters worse, so seeking legal guidance as soon as possible is often the best course of action.
Q: What happens at first appearance court in Hillsborough County?
A: First appearance is the initial court hearing that takes place within 24 hours of an arrest in Hillsborough County, where a judge determines whether probable cause exists for the arrest, advises the defendant of the charges, and decides whether to set bond and impose any conditions of release. In Hillsborough County, first appearance hearings are generally held in Courtroom 17 at 1:30 p.m. on weekdays and 10:00 a.m. on weekends and holidays, with most defendants appearing by video from the jail. During the hearing, the judge considers factors such as the nature of the offense, the defendant's criminal history, risk of flight, and danger to the community when making bond decisions. While some defendants (such as those arrested for violating probation or on certain warrants) may not be eligible for bond at first appearance, an experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney can advocate for lower bond, release on recognizance, and favorable release conditions, making early legal representation an important part of protecting your rights.
Q: What happens at an arraignment hearing in Hillsborough County?
A: An arraignment is a procedural court hearing where the judge formally advises you of the criminal charges filed against you and asks you to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Unlike a trial, no witnesses testify, no evidence is presented, and the judge does not determine guilt or innocence. In most cases, defendants plead not guilty, allowing the case to proceed to the discovery phase, pretrial hearings, negotiations, and, if necessary, trial. If you are represented by an attorney, your appearance at arraignment can often be waived by filing a written plea of not guilty and waiver of appearance with the court, although this depends on the specific case and court policies. Because important strategic decisions begin early in a criminal case, hiring an experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney before arraignment can help protect your rights, evaluate potential defenses, and position your case for the best possible outcome.
Q: Will my license be suspended if I'm arrested for DUI in Florida?
A: In most cases, yes. If you are arrested for DUI in Florida, your driver's license may be administratively suspended by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV), even before your criminal case is resolved. After the arrest, the officer will typically confiscate your driver's license and issue a 10-day temporary driving permit if you are eligible. The length of the suspension depends on the circumstances: a first-time unlawful breath or blood alcohol level of 0.08 or higher generally results in a six-month suspension, while refusing to submit to a lawful breath, blood, or urine test can result in a 12-month suspension for a first refusal and an 18-month suspension for subsequent refusals. You have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a DHSMV review hearing to challenge the suspension, making it critical to speak with an experienced Florida DUI defense attorney as soon as possible to protect your driving privileges.
Q: What happens if I refuse a breath test in Florida?
A: If you refuse a breath test after a lawful DUI arrest in Florida, you may face serious administrative and criminal consequences. Under Florida's implied consent law, refusing a breath test can result in a one-year driver's license suspension for a first refusal and an 18-month suspension for a second or subsequent refusal. Refusing to provide a lawful breath sample is also a crime in and of itself in Florida, meaning you'll likely face an additional criminal charge. Additionally, prosecutors are generally allowed to tell the jury that you refused the test and may argue that the refusal demonstrates a consciousness of guilt. However, refusing a breath test does not automatically result in a DUI conviction, as the State must still prove impairment through other evidence such as officer observations, field sobriety exercises, body camera footage, witness testimony, and driving behavior. Because potential defenses may exist, including challenges to the legality of the stop, arrest, or implied consent warnings, it is important to consult an experienced Florida DUI defense attorney as soon as possible.
Q: How do criminal traffic charges affect a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in Florida?
A: Criminal traffic charges can have serious consequences for Florida CDL holders, often extending far beyond the penalties imposed in criminal court. Certain convictions (including DUI, reckless driving, leaving the scene of a crash, refusing a lawful alcohol test, and other "serious traffic violations") can result in temporary or permanent disqualification of your commercial driving privileges, even if the offense occurred while driving your personal vehicle. Two serious traffic violation convictions within three years can lead to a 60-day CDL disqualification, while three convictions can result in a 120-day disqualification. More serious offenses, such as DUI or leaving the scene, may trigger a one-year disqualification, and some repeat or felony-related offenses can permanently revoke your CDL. Because many of these penalties are triggered by a conviction rather than an arrest, it is important to consult an experienced Florida criminal traffic attorney before entering a plea to explore defenses and protect both your commercial driver's license and your livelihood.
Q: What happens if I violate probation in Florida?
A: If you are accused of violating probation in Florida, your probation officer may file an affidavit alleging a violation, which can lead to the issuance of a warrant, a warrantless arrest, or a notice to appear in court. At your first court appearance, you can either admit or deny the alleged violation. If you deny it, the court will hold a violation of probation hearing where the State must prove by the greater weight of the evidence that you committed a willful and substantial violation of your probation. If the judge finds that a violation occurred, the court may continue your probation, modify its conditions, or revoke it entirely. Revocation can result in a conviction if adjudication was previously withheld and may expose you to the maximum sentence available for the original offense. Because probation violation cases involve different procedures and a lower burden of proof than a criminal trial, it is important to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to evaluate potential defenses and protect your rights.
Q: How do I seal or expunge criminal records in Florida?
A: Florida law allows certain individuals to limit public access to their criminal records through either record sealing or record expungement, but eligibility depends on the outcome of the case and your prior criminal history. Generally, you may qualify for expungement if your case was dismissed, nolle prossed, resulted in a not guilty verdict, or was resolved through a qualifying diversion program, and you have never been adjudicated guilty of a criminal offense. You may qualify for "sealing" of records if you received a withhold of adjudication on the underlying offense. The process typically involves obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), then filing a petition with the court requesting that your record be sealed or expunged. If granted, the court will order the appropriate agencies to seal or destroy the record in accordance with Florida law. Because the eligibility rules are strict and the process involves detailed paperwork and court procedures, consulting an experienced Florida criminal defense attorney can help determine whether you qualify and maximize your chances of successfully clearing your record.
Q: What is Hillsborough County's RIDR DUI Diversion Program?
A: Hillsborough County's Reducing Impaired Driving Recidivism (RIDR) Program is a diversion-style program available to certain first-time, non-aggravated DUI offenders that may allow participants to avoid a DUI conviction. If accepted and all pre-plea requirements are successfully completed (such as DUI School, a MADD Victim Impact Panel, community service, and any required alcohol or drug monitoring) the State Attorney's Office may agree to reduce the DUI charge to reckless driving with alcohol as a significant factor and withhold adjudication. Eligibility is limited and generally excludes cases involving aggravating factors such as crashes, minors in the vehicle, very high breath alcohol levels, prior DUI-related offenses, or certain criminal histories. Because participation requires waiving speedy trial rights and completing significant conditions before receiving the plea offer, it is important to consult an experienced Tampa DUI defense attorney to determine whether RIDR is the best strategy or whether challenging the DUI charge may produce a more favorable outcome.
Q: Should I speak to detectives or police during a criminal investigation in Florida?
A: In most situations, no. If detectives or law enforcement officers want to question you during a criminal investigation, it is generally in your best interest to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney before answering any questions. Even if you believe you are innocent or simply want to "tell your side of the story," your statements can be misunderstood, taken out of context, or used against you later in court. Under the Fifth Amendment, you have the right to remain silent and the right to have an attorney present during questioning, and invoking those rights cannot be used as evidence of guilt. Whether police contact you about a DUI, domestic violence, theft, drug offense, sex crime, or another investigation, you should politely decline to answer questions by stating that you wish to remain silent and speak with an attorney. Early legal representation can protect your constitutional rights, manage communications with law enforcement, and help avoid mistakes that could significantly impact your case.
Q: Can criminal charges in Florida be dropped?
A: Yes. Criminal charges in Florida can be dropped in several different ways, depending on the facts and legal issues involved. The most common occurs when the State Attorney's Office files a nolle prosequi, formally dismissing the prosecution because of insufficient evidence, witness credibility problems, constitutional issues, or other weaknesses in the case. Charges may also be dismissed after a defendant successfully completes a pretrial diversion program, such as those available for certain first-time offenders. In other situations, a judge may dismiss the case by granting a defense motion, such as a motion based on Florida's Stand Your Ground immunity law or a motion to dismiss under Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.190(c)(4) when the undisputed facts do not establish a crime. Constitutional violations, lack of probable cause, speedy trial issues, and other procedural defects may also lead to dismissal in appropriate cases. Because every case is different, an experienced Florida criminal defense attorney can evaluate the evidence, identify potential defenses, and pursue every available opportunity to have the charges reduced or dismissed.
Q: Will a criminal conviction put points on my license in Florida?
A: It depends on the offense. Many traffic-related convictions in Florida can add points to your driver's license, and accumulating too many points can result in a license suspension. Under Florida's point system, drivers may face a suspension for accumulating 12 points within 12 months, 18 points within 18 months, or 24 points within 36 months. Certain criminal traffic convictions, such as reckless driving, can result in points being added to your record, while other traffic offenses may carry different point values depending on the violation and circumstances. Points can lead to increased insurance costs, employment consequences, and potential license suspensions. Additionally, repeated traffic convictions may contribute to more serious consequences, including Habitual Traffic Offender (HTO) designation in some cases. Because simply paying a ticket or entering a plea can result in a conviction and long-term driving consequences, it is important to speak with an experienced Florida traffic defense attorney before resolving a criminal traffic case.