Ross F. Mann | June 10, 2025 | Car Accidents
Many drivers believe it’s safe or acceptable to drive just a few miles per hour (MPH) above the speed limit. You might think going five or ten MPH faster than posted limits won’t cause trouble. However, under Kentucky law, even driving slightly above the speed limit is technically illegal and could result in a ticket or penalties.
This blog post will explain how speed limits work in Kentucky and how exceeding them, even just slightly, can impact you legally and financially.
Speeding Law in Kentucky
Kentucky law clearly states that posted speed limits are the maximum allowed. Driving even one MPH over the posted limit means you’re breaking the law. While some police officers might overlook small violations, there is no official allowance for speeding above the limit.
In Kentucky, common speed limits generally range from 25 MPH to 70 MPH based on road type, location, and safety concerns. Legally, you must follow these maximum speed limits at all times. Driving slightly faster isn’t guaranteed to result in a ticket, but it definitely could.
Kentucky’s Comparative Negligence Law and Speeding
Kentucky follows a “pure comparative negligence” law. This means that if you’re in a car accident, your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re speeding, the other driver might argue you’re partially to blame for the accident. This can significantly lower the money you receive.
For example, if you’re found 20% at fault because you were driving slightly over the limit, you’ll lose 20% of any compensation you’re awarded. This makes sticking to the speed limit especially important in Kentucky, as even minor speeding could cost you in an accident claim.
Penalties for Speeding in Kentucky
If caught speeding in Kentucky, you may face fines and penalties, which increase the faster you go over the limit:
- Small speeding violations (1–10 MPH over) usually result in fines only.
- Going significantly faster (usually 11 MPH or more over the limit) can lead to fines, points on your license, increased insurance premiums, and even license suspension.
Repeated speeding violations will also significantly increase penalties. Keeping your speed within legal limits helps protect you from these serious consequences.
What To Do if You’re in a Car Accident in Kentucky
If you’re involved in a car accident in Kentucky, taking the right steps immediately afterward can help protect your claim:
- Call 911 right away. Police reports are valuable evidence.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver.
- Take photos or videos of the accident scene and vehicle damage, if safe to do so.
- Do not admit fault or apologize, as this can hurt your claim later.
- See a doctor quickly, even if you feel fine at first. Injuries may show up later, and prompt medical care helps document your claim.
- Contact a car accident lawyer for a free consultation to learn about your legal options.
Following these steps carefully makes it easier to recover the compensation you deserve.
Contact the Lexington Car Accident Lawyers of Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If you were injured in an accident in Lexington, and need legal help, contact our [PRACTICE AREA] attorneys at Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers, to schedule a free case review today.
We proudly serve Fayette County and the surrounding areas.
Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers – Lexington
501 Darby Creek Rd UNIT 48
Lexington, KY 40509
(859) 413-3900
