What You Need To Know About Reckless Driving Laws in Virginia

Virginia drivers must be especially careful to obey the traffic laws while out and about. Many people who are stopped for speeding, are surprised to realize they have been charged with reckless driving. Below is an overview of reckless driving laws in Virginia. If you or someone you love has been charged with reckless driving, it may benefit you to speak with a criminal defense attorney for advice.

What Is Reckless Driving?

In Virginia, drivers are not permitted to operate their vehicle in a manner that endangers the limb, property or life of others. If you are traveling at speed over 80 miles per hour or 20 miles per hour over the speed limit, you can be charged with reckless driving.

Penalties

The laws regarding reckless driving in Virginia are tough and drivers who are convicted face a variety of penalties such as:

License Suspension

A reckless driving conviction does not mean your license will automatically be suspended, but it is a possibility. Judges are more likely to impose this penalty when speed is a factor in the case.

Time In Jail

Reckless driving is a serious charge and jail time is a possibility if you are convicted. While the vast majority of people who are convicted of this offense do not spend time in jail, it is more likely when excessive speed or injury has occurred as a result of the driver’s negligence.

Monetary Penalties

The fines and penalties you may face in Virginia, depend on the judge and the details surrounding your case. Most people convicted of reckless driving in Virginia can expect to pay between $300.00 and $2500.00 in fines, plus any applicable court costs.

You may be impacted in many other ways if you are convicted of reckless driving. Your insurance rates will likely soar, and you could have a permanent criminal record that shows up on background searches for housing and employment.

If you have are facing a reckless driving charge in Richmond, Virginia contact a criminal defense attorney for help. During a consultation, your attorney will review the facts in your case and advise you how to move forward. Hiring a criminal defense attorney in Richmond may help you avoid paying expensive fines or jail time in your case.