Most people believe that traffic tickets are relatively minor issues that can be easily handled Pro Se, meaning without the assistance of an attorney. However, some traffic offenses are more serious than others and can have significantly harsher consequences. A misdemeanor Reckless driving ticket can result in more than simply paying a fine. If you are convicted of reckless driving, you could have to pay a fine of up to $2,500. The court may impose jail time of up to twelve months. The state of Virginia may also suspend your driver's license for up to six months. The conviction is a six point offense, can dramatically raise insurance rates, and prevent you from working certain types of jobs. To lessen or avoid these potential consequences, it is important that you have an experienced Fairfax reckless driving attorney to represent you in court.
Many driving mistakes on the road can fall under reckless driving. In fact, you may not even realize you commit these errors until it is too late. Some driving practices that Virginia considers to be reckless driving include:
- Speeding 20 mph or more above the posted speed limit
- Passing or overtaking an emergency vehicle
- Racing
- Driving with an obstructed view
- Speeding in excess of 85 mph
- Passing a School Bus
- Passing at a railroad crossing
- Driving too fast for conditions
- Failing to give a proper signal
- Faulty brakes/improper control
- Failure to Yield to Emergency Vehicles (The "Move Over" Law)
There are many ways an attorney can build a defense to defend a reckless driving charge or have the ticket amended down to a less serious offense such as Improper Driving, Speeding or Failure to Obey a Highway Sign. These traffic infractions carry only fines and no license suspension. A defendant alone cannot negotiate with a prosecutor to have charges amended down or dismissed.
Virginia law requires that RADAR or LIDAR equipment used by police be calibrated every six months. Please see Virginia Code §46.2-882. The officer must have proof of this in court to make their case. The charge may be dismissed if the Virginia rules are not carefully followed.
Also, the court may consider certain mitigating evidence that your attorney presents to the prosecutor and judge. These include driver improvement courses, driving record, letters of reference, community service and speedometer calibrations of the vehicle. The law office will provide a free initial consultation and explain what needs to be done before court to help you get the case dismissed or reduced to a traffic infraction.
A Fairfax County Reckless Driving Attorney Can Help You - 25 Years of Experience
If you receive a ticket or summons for reckless driving, you should contact a Fairfax County reckless driving attorney immediately. Reckless Driving in Virginia is a Class 1 misdemeanor, the same severity as a Driving Under Influence of Alcohol charge. Do not make the mistake of believing you should handle the ticket on your own. You risk a misdemeanor criminal conviction, fines, jail time and license suspension. An experienced attorney can minimize your liability and help you prepare your case for the best possible result.