In New Mexico, you can get a speeding ticket for exceeding an "absolute speed limit" or driving in violation of the "basic speeding law." Below we explain specifically what these two types of speeding violations are and the penalties you might face (assuming you don't successfully fight the ticket) if you get cited for one of these violations.
An absolute speed limit is just what it sounds like—the maximum speed you can lawfully drive on a roadway. New Mexico's absolute speed limits (unless otherwise posted) are:
Generally, there's a signage indicating what the absolute speed limit is on the specific part of the roadway.
In addition to complying with absolute limits, all New Mexico drivers must abide by the state's basic speed law. The basic law requires all drivers to use due care; and control their speed so as to avoid colliding with any person or vehicle which is either on or while entering the highway. In other words, even if you're not exceeding the absolute limit, your speed can still be in violation of the basic speed law if it's unsafe under the existing circumstances.
Fines. The fines for speeding tickets depend on the driver's speed compared to the limit or reasonable speed. Here are the fine amounts for speeding violations in New Mexico:
Speeding in a posted construction zone will normally result in enhanced fine amounts.
Demerit points. Depending on how fast you were going, a speeding violation will typically add three to eight points to your driving record.
Depending on the circumstances, a speeding violation can lead to a "reckless driving" or "careless driving" conviction. And, if a speeding violation results in the death of another person, vehicular homicide charges are a possibility.