How Much Over the Speed Limit is a Felony in Kentucky?
Speeding is one of the most common traffic offenses in Kentucky. However, when does a basic speeding ticket escalate into a more severe matter—such as a felony? While most speeding offenses end with a citation and a fine, there are exceptional instances where extreme speeding or reckless conduct can lead to felony charges. Understanding when and how this can happen is important for anyone facing a serious traffic-related offense in Kentucky.
Speeding in Kentucky: Typically, a Traffic Violation
In most cases, speeding in Kentucky is considered a traffic infraction or violation, not a criminal offense. For example:
- Driving 10–15 mph over the limit on a highway usually results in a fine and points on your license.
- Fines vary by county, but drivers often pay between $20 and $100, along with court costs.
Kentucky employs a point system to monitor violations. If you accumulate an excess of points, your license may be suspended. However, this does not imply that you are committing a crime, let alone a severe felony—yet.
When Speeding Becomes Reckless Driving
If you’re caught driving significantly over the speed limit—especially 26 mph or more—you could be charged with reckless driving under KRS §189.290, which is a violation or misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances.
Reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle “in such a manner as to indicate a disregard for the safety of persons or property.” This is often applied when:
- Driving significantly above the speed limit
- Weaving through traffic at high speeds
- Speeding in a construction or school zone
Although reckless driving is not classified as a felony, it can lead to more severe charges when combined with other dangerous behaviors.
When Speeding Turns Into a Felony in Kentucky
In Kentucky, speeding alone—even at high speeds—is not automatically a felony. However, it can become part of a felony charge if other aggravating factors are involved. For instance:
Fleeing or Evading Police (KRS § 520.095)
If you’re speeding to avoid a traffic stop or police pursuit, you could be charged with Fleeing or Evading Police in the First Degree—a Class C felony in Kentucky.
You can be charged if you:
- Disregard a police officer’s signal to stop
- Drive at high speeds to escape law enforcement
- Endanger others during the pursuit
Conviction can result in imprisonment, plus fines and a license suspension.
Wanton Endangerment (KRS § 508.060)
Driving at an extremely high speed through residential areas, school zones, or crowded streets could be classified as wanton endangerment, a Class D felony.
This charge applies when your behavior:
- Puts others at substantial risk of injury or death
- Shows a disregard for human life
This can occur even if no one is actually hurt—the risk alone is enough to trigger felony charges.
Vehicular Homicide or Assault
If you’re speeding and cause a fatal accident or serious injury, you may face vehicular homicide, manslaughter, or assault charges. These are felony-level offenses and can result in lengthy prison sentences, especially if drugs or alcohol are also involved.
What to Do If You’re Facing Serious Traffic Charges
If you have been cited for more than just speeding—especially if felony charges like fleeing, wanton endangerment, or vehicular assault are on the table—reach out to an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately.
At Hoffman Walker & Knauf, we understand how quickly a routine traffic stop can spiral into something more serious. That is why our criminal defense team helps clients across Kentucky fight felony traffic charges, reduce penalties, and protect their future.
Contact Our Criminal Defense Attorneys Today
If you have been charged with a felony related to speeding or reckless driving, do not wait. Contact Hoffman Walker & Knauf to schedule a confidential consultation. We can review your case, help you understand your options, and fight to protect your rights at every step.
