Virginia has some of the most severe traffic laws in the country. This is certainly the case with respect to reckless driving offenses. There are 14 different types of reckless driving in Virginia, and all 14 kinds of reckless driving qualify as a crime. Many clients charged with reckless driving are unaware of the consequences of reckless driving in Virginia. Reckless driving is a class 1 misdemeanor, which is punishable in Virginia by up to one year in jail and $2500 in fines.
In Virginia drivers travelling at certain speeds may be convicted of reckless driving. Even if the driver was travelling at 81mph in a 70mph speed zone, he may be convicted of reckless driving. Virginia’s reckless driving law based on speed prohibits travelling at 20mph or more over the speed limit or in excess of 80mph regardless of the speed limit.
Furthermore, drivers involved in car accidents may find themselves charged with reckless driving. This occurs in cases where the officer believes there is probable cause that the driver was driving in a manner or speed that endangered other drivers. Drivers may even find themselves charged with reckless driving for failing to maintain proper control of their vehicle.
Drivers convicted of reckless driving in Virginia can expect to receive a fine, possibly a license suspension, and an increase in their insurance rates. Reckless driving can cause some drivers to lose their job. In some cases drivers charged with reckless driving may have to spend a period of time in jail. Although jail time is not a common punishment it is a realistic possibility if the driver was travelling at a very high speed or caused serious injury to another driver.
Because reckless driving is a crime it cannot be expunged and will be on the driver’s criminal record permanently. Virginia does not allow for crimes to be expunged.
Virginia drivers can also expect to receive 6 demerit points on their license. The conviction will stay on their driving record for 11 years.
Individuals charged with reckless driving cannot get away with a prepaid ticket. Depending on the jurisdiction, they might have to appear in court. Failure to do so might result in the judge issuing a warrant for arrest.
The punishment a driver may receive will vary greatly based on the driving record of the individual, the local court policy, speed limits, and many other factors.
Drivers charged with reckless driving in Virginia may find more information on Virginia's Reckless Driving Law here:
http://www.tmwilsonlaw.com/traffic-law/reckless-driving
About Thomas M. Wilson, Attorney at Law:
Thomas M, Wilson is a Charlottesville, VA criminal and traffic attorney. The attorney regularly deals with cases of reckless driving in Virginia and has helped many clients charged with reckless driving get the best possible legal solution. A free initial consultation is available to all prospective clients.
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Company Name: Thomas M. Wilson, Attorney at Law
Contact Person: Thomas Wilson
Email:Send Email
Phone: 434-979-0308
Address:435 Park St.
City: Charlottesville
State: Virgini
Country: United States
Website: http://www.tmwilsonlaw.com
