Florida’s Super Speeder Law: What to Do If You’ve Been Ticketed or Arrested

Florida’s new “Super Speeder” law has changed what speeding enforcement looks like across the state. What used to be a civil traffic ticket—something you could often resolve by paying a fine—can now be charged as a crime. That means mandatory court appearances, potential jail time, and long-lasting consequences for your driving record, employment, insurance rates, and even your future freedom.

If you were stopped for extreme speeding in Madison, Tallahassee, Pensacola, Panama City, Destin, Rosemary Beach, or Lake City, you are likely already dealing with the overwhelming reality of the new law. This guide explains what the Super Speeder law is, why it matters, what penalties you’re facing, and the steps to take immediately to protect your rights.

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What Is Florida’s New “Super Speeder” Law

Beginning July 1, 2025, Florida enacted a new statute aimed at reducing severe traffic crashes linked to high‑speed driving. Often referred to as the “Super Speeder Law,” the statute classifies certain extreme speeding behaviors as criminal offenses rather than civil infractions.

Although the term “Super Speeder” is not the official name of the statute, it is widely used by law enforcement, prosecutors, and defense attorneys to describe these elevated charges.

A driver may be charged under the law if they are alleged to have:

1. Driven 50 miles per hour or more over the posted speed limit, or
   
   
2. Driven 100 miles per hour or more, regardless of the posted limit, under circumstances that endanger life, property, or traffic flow.
   
   

Unlike traditional speeding tickets, these charges require a mandatory court appearance and may result in a criminal conviction. That makes this law especially important to understand if you drive regularly, commute long distances, or travel on high‑speed highways like I‑10, I‑75, or US‑319.

Why Florida Passed the Law

Florida implemented the Super Speeder law in response to significant increases in high‑speed crashes, many of which resulted in fatalities or severe injuries. Legislators argued that existing penalties for extreme speeding were not strong enough to deter drivers.

Previously, many high‑speed cases resulted only in traffic fines, even when drivers were caught traveling 100 miles per hour or more. Now, the law makes it clear that extreme speeding is more than a moving violation—it is a potential threat to public safety and will be treated as such.

This shift has created a dramatic increase in the stakes for Florida drivers. It has also caught many motorists off guard, especially those who assume that speeding—even very fast speeding—is still “just a ticket.” Under the new law, it is not.

Penalties Under Florida’s Super Speeder Law

Because Super Speeder charges are classified as criminal offenses, the potential consequences are significantly more serious than those of a traditional speeding ticket.

First‑Time Super Speeder Offense

• Up to 30 days in jail
  
  
• Up to $500 fine
  
  
• Mandatory court appearance
  
  
• Points on your driving record
  
  
• Significant insurance premium increases
  
  

Second or Subsequent Offenses Within 5 Years

• Up to 90 days in jail
  
  
• Up to $1,000 fine
  
  
• 180‑day to 1‑year driver’s license revocation
  
  
• Mandatory court appearance
  
  
• Criminal record with long‑term consequences
  
  

Additional Consequences

• Loss of employment opportunities, especially jobs requiring driving
  
  
• Possible suspension of commercial driver’s license for CDL holders
  
  
• Higher insurance rates or policy cancellation
  
  
• Ineligibility for certain professional licenses
  
  

The law applies statewide, and while judges may vary in how they approach these cases, the statutory penalties are uniform. This means that even a first-time offender can face jail, a permanent criminal record, or severe damage to their driving privileges.

Why Super Speeder Charges Are More Serious Than Traditional Speeding Tickets

Under the old traffic system, a person cited for speeding—even at very high speeds—was typically issued a civil infraction. They could often pay the fine and move on, with minimal long‑term impact.

Under the new statute, however, extreme speeding can result in a criminal charge, and criminal traffic offenses come with significant consequences including misdemeanor or in some cases potentially enhanced penalties if combined with reckless driving or other violations.

This distinction matters greatly because:

• A criminal traffic conviction cannot be handled by mail. You must appear in court.
  
  
• You may face jail time, probation, or both.
  
  
• Your conviction will appear on background checks.
  
  
• The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) may take administrative action against your license.
  
  

Even if you have never been in trouble before, one high‑speed mistake can put you at risk of losing your license, your job, or your future opportunities.

What To Do Immediately After Receiving a Florida Super Speeder Ticket or Arrest

The moments following a citation or arrest under this law matter. Simple mistakes can weaken your defense long before your first court date.

Remain Silent

If you are arrested or questioned, do not explain, justify, or apologize. Anything you say can be used against you later. The safest statement to make is:

“I would like to remain silent and speak to an attorney.”

This is not an admission of guilt. It is your constitutional right.

Do Not Post Online

Many drivers post about their traffic stop on social media. This is a mistake. Prosecutors and insurance companies routinely monitor online posts. Anything you share—even humor—can be used against you.

Do Not Pay the Ticket

Some Super Speeder citations look like traditional traffic tickets on the surface. Paying the fine is the same as admitting guilt, and may result in:

• A criminal conviction
  
  
• License suspension
  
  
• Higher insurance premiums
  
  
• Loss of employment opportunities
  
  

Always consult a criminal defense attorney before taking any action.

Contact an Attorney Immediately

Using a lawyer early in the process allows you to challenge evidence, gather records, review speed measurement devices, obtain dashcam video, and speak with the prosecutor before they finalize charges.

This early intervention can make a major difference in the outcome of your case.

What Not To Do After a Super Speeder Citation

The following actions can harm your defense and limit your legal options.

• Do not argue with the officer.
  
  
• Do not attempt to talk your way out of the charge.
  
  
• Do not refuse to sign the citation; this can lead to additional charges.
  
  
• Do not miss mandatory court appearances.
  
  
• Do not drive if your license is suspended.
  
  

Your attorney will advise you on any required steps and help you navigate deadlines and court obligations.

Defenses to Florida Super Speeder Charges

Just because you were cited or arrested does not mean you will be convicted. A skilled attorney can challenge the State’s evidence and build a defense based on the facts of your case.

Common defenses include:

Faulty Radar or Lidar Readings

Speed‑measuring devices can give inaccurate results if:

• They were improperly calibrated
  
  
• They were used incorrectly by the officer
  
  
• Weather or traffic conditions interfered with accuracy
  
  

An attorney may request calibration logs or maintenance records.

Officer Error

Human error occurs during:

• Stationary radar checks
  
  
• Visual estimates
  
  
• Vehicle pacing
  
  

If the officer did not follow protocol, your charges may be reduced or dismissed.

Insufficient Evidence of Criminal Dangerousness

For the 100‑mph category of the statute, prosecutors must show that you were driving in a way that endangered others or obstructed traffic. If your speed alone does not meet this threshold, your attorney may argue for dismissal or reduction.

Lack of Proper Notice or Documentation

Errors in ticket issuance, missing information, or incorrect venue identification can undermine the State’s case.

Negotiated Reductions

In many cases, an attorney may negotiate a reduction to:

• Standard speeding
  
  
• Reckless driving
  
  
• Careless driving
  
  

All of these outcomes avoid the harsher penalties of a Super Speeder conviction.

Why You Should Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney, Not Just a Traffic Lawyer

The Super Speeder law turns what used to be a civil ticket into a potential criminal case. A traffic ticket lawyer may not have experience with:

• Criminal evidence rules
  
  
• Misdemeanor court procedures
  
  
• Plea negotiations with prosecutors
  
  
• Speed‑related criminal sentencing
  
  

A criminal defense attorney can review evidence, challenge the prosecution’s case, and work to keep the charge from becoming a permanent criminal conviction.

How a Lawyer Can Help You

When you hire an attorney early, they can:

• Obtain bodycam and dashcam footage
  
  
• Challenge radar and lidar readings
  
  
• Review officer training records
  
  
• Subpoena dispatch logs or weather data
  
  
• Negotiate with prosecutors for charge reductions
  
  
• Advocate for no jail time or minimal license impact
  
  

Your attorney will also guide you through courtroom procedures, ensuring you avoid mistakes that can harm your case.

Final Thoughts: Take Super Speeder Tickets Seriously

Florida’s Super Speeder law is designed to punish extreme speeding with criminal penalties. What used to be a traffic ticket is now a criminal charge that can affect your driving privileges, employment, and future options.

If you or someone you know has been cited or arrested under this law, do not wait. Speak with a criminal defense attorney immediately.

You have rights, and the steps you take now can make all the difference.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique. Consult a licensed Florida criminal defense attorney to discuss your specific situation.

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