Unsafe Speed on Bridge or Tunnel
Driving at a speed that is unsafe given the structural conditions of a bridge, tunnel, or elevated highway structure.
This guide is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. TicketClear is a self-help document preparation service — we are not attorneys and do not represent clients. Review all prepared documents carefully before submitting. Fine amounts are estimates and vary by county and surcharge schedule.
What is a Unsafe Speed on Bridge or Tunnel ticket?
CVC 22405 prohibits driving faster than is safe when crossing a bridge, tunnel, viaduct, causeway, or elevated structure. Even if no posted speed limit exists, driving at a speed that creates danger on these structures is a violation. Officers evaluate speed based on the structure's design and traffic conditions.
A conviction adds 1 DMV point to your record, triggers fines of $238–$490 with penalty assessments, and can raise your car insurance premium by 15–25% for up to three years.
A 1-point moving violation typically raises full-coverage premiums 15–25% at renewal. Over a 3-year surcharge period, expect to pay $300–$900 in additional premiums on an average California policy.
What the Law Says
What the Officer Must Prove
- 1The location was a bridge, viaduct, or tunnel with a specific speed restriction
- 2Your speed exceeded the posted limit for that structure
How Drivers Get This Ticket
Driver crosses the Bay Bridge at 75 mph in 55 mph posted zone.
Cited under both 22349 and 22405; officer notes narrow lanes increased hazard.
No speed limit posted on a rural elevated causeway; driver doing 65 mph.
Officer cites 22405 using prima facie unsafe speed argument; difficult to contest without engineering data.
Driver exceeds posted 45 mph on a viaduct with construction narrowing lanes.
Construction zone may double the fine; Trial by Written Declaration is a viable option.
Common Defenses for Unsafe Speed on Bridge or Tunnel
These are the defense arguments that appear most often in successful Trial by Written Declarations for this violation.
Speed did not exceed the posted limit
CVC 22405 sets specific speed limits for bridges and tunnels. If your speed was within the posted limit for the structure, challenge the factual basis of the citation.
No posted speed limit for the structure
If no specific speed limit was posted for the bridge or tunnel, the default speed limits apply. Challenge whether a structure-specific limit was in effect.
How to Address This in Your Declaration
- ✓Dashcam footage showing traffic flow and road conditions at time of stop
- ✓Radar/LIDAR calibration records (request via discovery)
- ✓Photos of the structure showing lane width and visibility
- ✓Weather reports for the date/time of the citation
- ✓Traffic engineering survey or speed study for the structure
⚠️ What NOT to Do
- ✗Admitting to a specific speed at the roadside stop
- ✗Paying the fine immediately — this is a conviction and adds a DMV point
- ✗Missing your arraignment or Trial by Written Declaration deadline
- ✗Assuming the ticket is minor — insurance surcharges can cost thousands over 3 years
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Frequently Asked Questions About Unsafe Speed on Bridge or Tunnel
What makes a speed "unsafe" on a bridge?▼
Under CVC 22405, the standard is whether your speed was greater than reasonably safe considering traffic, weather, visibility, and the design of the structure. A posted speed limit does not guarantee safety — narrowed lanes, crosswinds, or poor visibility can make the posted speed unsafe.
Can I fight this ticket if I was just keeping up with traffic?▼
Yes — the flow of traffic defense is viable here. If surrounding vehicles were traveling at the same speed, your conduct was arguably consistent with safe driving for conditions. Document this in your written declaration.
Is this a "fix-it" ticket I can dismiss with proof of correction?▼
No. Speed violations are not correctable equipment offenses. You must either contest the ticket or pay the fine, which results in a conviction and DMV point.
Will this affect my commercial driver's license (CDL)?▼
Yes — CDL holders face stricter consequences. A moving violation conviction can affect your CDL status and employment. Consult a traffic attorney before paying.
Traffic School Option
You may attend traffic school to mask the point if this is your first moving violation point in the past 18 months and you hold a non-commercial license. Complete before the court deadline.
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This guide is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. TicketClear is a self-help document preparation service — we are not attorneys and do not represent clients. Review all prepared documents carefully before submitting. Fine amounts are estimates and vary by county and surcharge schedule.