If you’re facing a reckless driving charge in Virginia, it’s crucial to understand the severity of the situation and the potential ways to mitigate it. What happens if you get a Virginia reckless driving ticket? Reckless driving is considered a misdemeanor in Virginia, carrying penalties like fines and even jail time. Pleading guilty or no contest can lead to a permanent criminal record.
What is Considered Reckless Driving in VA?
Reckless driving isn’t taken lightly in Virginia, and it encompasses more than just speeding violations. The state recognizes at least 15 distinct reckless driving offenses, which include the following:
- Exceeding speed limit by 20 miles per hour or more or driving over 80 miles per hour (Virginia Code § 46.2-862)
- Driving too fast for road or traffic conditions (Virginia Code § 46.2-861)
- Operating a vehicle recklessly, endangering life, limb, or property (Virginia Code § 46.2-852)
- Failing to yield the right of way when entering a highway from a side street (Virginia Code § 46.2-863)
- Reckless driving in a parking lot (Virginia Code § 46.2-864)
- Passing a stopped school bus (Virginia Code § 46.2-859)
- Failing to signal properly when turning, slowing down, or stopping (Virginia Code § 46.2-860)
- Passing two vehicles abreast, except on specified roads (Virginia Code § 46.2-856)
- Passing a railroad crossing (Virginia Code § 46.2-858)
- Engaging in racing activities (Virginia Code § 46.2-865)
Penalties for a Virginia Reckless Driving Ticket
Reckless driving is considered a serious offense, classified as a Class I misdemeanor. If convicted, you could face a jail term of up to 12 months and a fine reaching $2,500. Your driving privileges may also be suspended for six months. Furthermore, a reckless driving conviction stays on your criminal record permanently, potentially impacting future job prospects and background checks. Additionally, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will assign six demerit points to your record, possibly resulting in increased insurance rates.
Strategies for Handling a Reckless Driving Ticket
When facing a Virginia reckless driving ticket, you have several options to consider, each with its own implications. While some options may not seem favorable for minimizing penalties, it’s crucial to weigh all possibilities before deciding how to proceed. Here are your choices:
- Ignoring the ticket: Ignoring a Virginia reckless driving ticket is never advisable. Failing to respond could result in a guilty verdict in your absence or even a warrant for your arrest.
- Pleading guilty or no contest: Opting to plead guilty or no contest without legal representation can lead to a permanent conviction and a criminal record, affecting future job prospects and more.
- Representing yourself: While tempting, self-representation in court may not be in your best interest. Without understanding the technicalities of the charge or potential defenses, you risk an unfavorable outcome. Additionally, you miss the opportunity for a skilled attorney to negotiate on your behalf for a better resolution.
- Hiring an attorney: Your top choice is to enlist the services of a seasoned traffic law attorney specializing in reckless driving cases. They can investigate your situation, present any applicable defenses, and advocate for a dismissal or reduction of the charge.
Contact a Lawyer for a Reckless Driving Ticket in Virginia
Have you been accused of reckless driving? Take the right step and reach out to our skilled Arlington traffic lawyer today. Schedule a consultation to learn about your legal alternatives and how we could potentially contest the Virginia reckless driving ticket to have it dropped or downgraded to a lesser traffic offense.