What is the penalty for excessive speeding, such as going 85 mph on an interstate highway?

In North Carolina, excessive speeding, defined as driving over 80 mph in a zone where the speed limit is 70 mph, incurs significant penalties. When a driver is caught going 85 mph on an interstate highway, this situation typically results in the assessment of 3 points on the driver's license.

The point system in North Carolina penalizes drivers in proportion to the severity of the violation, with greater speeds resulting in a higher point count. The points serve as both a deterrent and a means for state authorities to monitor driving behavior. Accumulating points can lead to further penalties, such as increased insurance rates and potential license suspension. Thus, for going 85 mph on an interstate, the correct assessment is indeed 3 points as this reflects the seriousness of the offense under state traffic laws.