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'9 you're fine, 10 you're mine' is a myth: Colorado State Patrol

Col. Matthew C. Packard says drivers can and do receive tickets for going between 1- 9 miles over the posted speed limit
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Colorado State PatrolPhoto by Mark Stahl/Source: Facebook

NEWS RELEASE
COLORADO STATE PATROL
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One of the most common traffic infractions motorists commit is driving above the posted speed limit. Despite signs sending drivers reminders along each roadway, motorists push past the limits often with little concern and a lot of misconceptions.

A common theory by the motoring public is that driving a few miles faster than the respective speed limit is okay because the belief is that law enforcement abides by the “9 you're fine, 10 you're mine” benchmark. But, the reality is one mile over the posted limit is breaking the law.

“While it would be impossible for troopers to pull over every single motorist violating the speed limit, drivers can and do receive tickets for going between 1- 9 miles over,” stated Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “When speed hurts a passenger, pedestrian, animal or other motorist, can you really say it was acceptable?”

According to 2023 fatal and injury data for crashes investigated by Colorado State Troopers, speeding was the top causal factor. Troopers were called to investigate over 2,830 fatal and injury crashes last year, with approximately 23% caused by speeding.

“Whatever reason you may have to speed doesn’t justify breaking a law set in place to keep the community safe,” stated Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “These speeds are set after considering factors such as road design, visibility and potential hazards. Following the speed limit reduces the likelihood of crashes.”

Under Colorado law, a violation of driving 1 to 24 mph over the posted speed limit is a Class A traffic infraction. If a driver is pulled over for going 1 to 4 mph over the reasonable or maximum lawful speed, the fine is $30 plus a $6 surcharge. For someone caught going 5 to 9 mph over the limit, a $70 fine plus a $10 surcharge is handed out. The fine for a driver traveling 10 to 19 mph over the maximum limit in Colorado is $135 with a $16 surcharge.

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