Interstate 95 Speed Traps Often Catch Drunk Driving
Interstate 95 runs up and down the east coast, including through South Carolina. In northern and central South Carolina, I-95 is a notorious speed trap. In recent years, there have been multiple media reports regarding how local law enforcement officers patrol I-95. A police chief even directed his officers to write more tickets to fight declining ticketing.
While many small towns along the interstate heavily enforce speeding and traffic laws, records show that local police in Santee write more tickets on Interstate 95 than most other police departments.
The speed enforcement also leads to more DUI arrests.
Why It Is So Important To Fight The First DUI
South Carolina has strict and harsh penalties for drivers convicted of driving under the influence. Recent legislation has toughened the DUI penalties, making it easier to get in trouble.
With second and third DUIs, the penalties get even tougher, so it is vital to fight back against your first DUI arrest to prevent worse trouble in the future. Drivers with two or more DUI convictions, including convictions from other states, face serious jail time and hefty fines.
Second offense DUI penalties can also include:
- Ignition interlock devices
- Increased insurance premiums
- Alcohol intervention program attendance
- License suspensions
- Impacts on your job and employment prospects
The fines and costs you can add up to $6,500 for your second DUI, and $10,000 on your third. All other measures also come out of your pocket, such as an ignition interlock device that can cost $1,000 plus $130 for monthly monitoring.
It is crucial that you work with an attorney who knows how to work with defendants both in-state and out-of-state. If you are traveling on I-95 and get pulled over when passing through South Carolina, contact Drennan Law Firm immediately. Working with a local criminal defense attorney ensures that your counsel understands local laws. We know how the system works. Don’t take a chance at something as serious as a DUI.
Frequently Asked Questions About Interstate 95
With heavy traffic, strict enforcement of traffic laws and frequent violations, understanding its history, safety measures and traffic regulations is essential for drivers. Below are answers to common questions about I-95 and traffic laws.
Why is I-95 historically and economically significant?
Interstate 95 (I-95) spans the East Coast from Miami, Florida, to the Canadian border in Maine. Crossing nearly 1,900 miles, it connects major metropolitan areas like New York City, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia, facilitating trade, travel and commerce.
I-95 was developed as part of the Interstate Highway System, initiated in the 1950s under the Federal-Aid Highway Act. It supports the economy by enabling efficient transportation of goods and providing a direct route for millions of commuters and tourists annually.
What are speed traps, and why are they used?
Speed traps are areas where law enforcement officers monitor vehicle speeds, often in locations where limits change abruptly or drivers frequently exceed limits. Speed traps use radar, lasers or cameras to measure vehicle speeds and enforce traffic laws. They are implemented to encourage compliance with speed limits and protect drivers, pedestrians and nearby communities.
How common are speeding and DUI arrests on I-95?
Speeding and driving under the influence (DUI) are major concerns on I-95. These behaviors contribute to traffic violations and accidents. For example, South Carolina alone reports over 20,000 DUI arrests yearly, with a huge portion occurring on interstate highways like I-95.
What are South Carolina’s traffic laws for speeding and DUIs?
In South Carolina, exceeding the posted speed limit can result in fines ranging from $15 to $200, depending on the violation. DUI laws impose severe consequences, including a minimum fine of $400, license suspension and mandatory substance abuse programs for first-time offenders.
How do local police enforce traffic laws along I-95?
Local police departments along I-95, such as Santee, help enforce traffic laws. Enforcement can include patrols, speed traps, and checkpoints to monitor traffic violations such as speeding and DUIs. Their proactive measures, including public awareness campaigns, help enhance safety and reduce fatal incidents on this busy interstate.
Protect Your Future And Avoid A DUI Conviction
Whether a police officer pulls you over on I-95 or elsewhere in the state, contact us to schedule a free consultation with an experienced DUI defense attorney. From our office in Charleston, we help people throughout South Carolina and out-of-state residents who are pulled over in the state. Call today at 843-352-4149 or contact us online to get started.