How Strict is Connecticut on Speeding and Reckless Driving?

A new study by WalletHub has been released regarding the “Strictest and most lenient states on speeding and reckless driving.”

In its research, WalletHub said speed is a factor in 29 percent of all motor vehicle crash deaths, and speeding-related crashes costs the national economy $40.4 billion annually.

Also speeding will cost you more money. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, every time you drive 5 mph over 60 mph it’s costing you 7 percent more for gas.

When it comes to cracking down on speeding and reckless driving, Connecticut ranks just 31st overall.

The top 5 strictest states are Colorado, Arizona, Delaware, Illinois and New Mexico.

Connecticut is ranked 27th for speeding enforcement and 31st on reckless driving enforcement.

Related story: Report Lists Top Reasons Why Troop A State Troopers Pull You Over

Some observations from WalletHub’s research: no states require mandatory jail time for speeding, but if you are found guilty of reckless driving expect to spend at least one day in jail, the report states.

The average cost for a ticket for reckless driving is $742, the lowest is $100 in Kentucky, Mississippi and New Mexico. The most expensive ticket is $5,000 in Washington.

In Connecticut, speeding is automatically considered reckless driving once you’re 20 mph over the posted speed limit.

Speeding offenses add 7 percent to your insurance costs in Connecticut, and a speeding ticket counts toward a suspension of your license by 10 percent.

For reckless driving offenses in Connecticut, your license will be suspended for one month, and the first offense minimum fine is $300 and the second offense minimum fine is $600.

Read the full report here.