KRS 189.450: Speeding Violations in Kentucky

What Is KRS 189.450?

KRS 189.450 establishes Kentucky’s basic speed limits and the prohibition against driving faster than is reasonable and prudent. People in Lexington, Louisville, and across Kentucky are cited under this statute every day — and many don’t realize how it can affect their driving record.

What the Statute Requires

KRS 189.450 requires drivers to operate vehicles at a speed that is reasonable and prudent given:

Traffic conditions
Weather conditions
Road conditions
Vehicle conditions
Posted speed limits

Penalties Under KRS 189.450

Standard speeding (1-15 mph over): Fine plus 3 points on license
16-25 mph over: Larger fine plus 4-6 points
More than 26 mph over: Possible reckless driving charge
Speeding in construction zones: Doubled fines

The Real Cost of Speeding Tickets

The fine itself is often the smallest part of the cost:

Insurance premium increases
Points accumulating toward license suspension
Court costs
Possible driving school requirement

Defenses to Speeding Charges

Challenging radar or lidar accuracy
Disputing the officer’s observations
Necessity defense in emergencies
Negotiating to non-moving violations

Don’t Just Pay the Ticket

Pleading guilty means accepting points and insurance increases. Clark + Harris often negotiates speeding charges down to non-moving violations. Call 859-474-0001 — 24/7.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon should I contact Clark + Harris after being charged in Kentucky?

As soon as possible. Early representation protects your rights during questioning, preserves evidence, and often leads to better outcomes. Call 859-474-0001 — we respond promptly to new inquiries.

Does Clark + Harris represent clients throughout Kentucky?

Yes. We represent clients in all 120 Kentucky counties, both state District and Circuit courts, and federal courts in the Eastern and Western Districts of Kentucky.

What happens during a free consultation with Clark + Harris?

We review the specific charges and evidence, discuss available defenses, explain the likely process in the relevant court, and give you a clear roadmap of next steps — at no cost to you.

Related Resources

If this information applied to your situation, the following Clark + Harris guides may also be helpful: