Don't Speed in These 5 States

Whether you're on a long and tedious drive or you're late to a morning meeting, it's common for people to speed a little while driving. Plus, with innovative technology providing warning systems for red light cameras and speed traps, some might feel like it's not a big deal to bend the rules and speed sometimes.

However, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, almost one-third of traffic fatalities are caused by speeding, and the number of deaths due to speeding reached a 14-year high in 2021. This data makes it clear that speeding on the road should not be taken lightly, and these five states agree — hence why they're known for having the most speed traps in the country. 

A recent survey by MarketWatch found that speed traps are often found in areas where speed limits are set lower than the safest average rate of travel on the road. Police frequently monitor these areas for revenue purposes. The survey also identified the states with the highest number of speed traps, and their top five might surprise you. 

5. Hawaii

Hawaii is a great location to unwind and relax, but not speed on the roadways. Hawaii has the fifth highest number of speed traps, with 0.39 per lane-mile. If you get caught speeding, you may have to pay a fine ranging from $200 to $500, the ninth highest in the U.S. Moreover, your annual insurance premium may increase by an average of $126.

4. South Carolina

South Carolina is the fourth southern state with the most speed traps. The average number of speed traps per lane mile is 0.51, and the average fine for a speeding ticket is $15-$445. And the increase in your annual insurance? On average, you'll see an increase of $274.

3. Tennessee

The third place for most speed traps in America belongs to the South, Tennessee, to be exact. Their highways have 0.58 speed traps per lane mile. The average speeding fine is $109-$114. The good news? The average annual increase to your insurance post-ticket is just $253, significantly lower than the first and second states on this list. 

2. Maryland

According to recent statistics, Maryland has the second-highest number of speed traps, with 0.68 per lane mile. If you speed in Maryland, you could face fines ranging between $80 and $530. Additionally, your annual insurance premium could increase by an average of $417.

1. Delaware

With the highest number of speed traps per lane mile at 1.07, Delaware tops the list of states where you do not want to be caught speeding. A speeding ticket will cost you anywhere from $100 to $200, with an average increase to your full coverage insurance of $338 per year after the ticket. 

Did you know that over 30% of Americans have been caught in a speed trap? So, if you have received a speeding ticket, you are not alone. No matter which states you are traveling through, keeping an eye on your speedometer is essential for your physical safety and your wallet.

References: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration | U.S. Speeding: Trends, Penalties, and Avoiding Traps | Don't Speed Here: The States With the Most Speed Traps