Taken By Surprise With A Reckless Driving Ticket?
Many people do not realize that in Virginia, simply speeding can result in a reckless driving charge and demerit points on their driving records. Generally, if a driver is going 20 mph over the speed limit or any speed over 85 mph, it is considered reckless driving.
If you have been charged with reckless driving, we will aggressively pursue the best outcome for your unique situation. While you may not think you need a lawyer for a traffic violation like reckless driving, hiring a knowledgeable attorney can make a significant difference in the penalties you receive. We will provide personal one-on-one attention and address all of your concerns. We will personally handle your case from beginning to end, rather than delegating your case to a less experienced attorney
How Reckless Driving Can Impact You
Reckless driving is a Class 1 criminal misdemeanor in Virginia. Conviction on a reckless driving charge is punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. A conviction may affect a driver’s auto insurance rates, background checks for employment and military security clearances. Additionally, many drivers convicted of reckless driving lose their driver’s licenses for a period of time and receive points on their driving records.
If you have been charged with reckless driving, typically, you will be required to appear in court, even if you are from out of state. If you hire an attorney, however, you may not have to be present for the court hearing.
Protecting Your Driver’s License And Military Career In Portsmouth
Portsmouth sits at the heart of Hampton Roads, home to one of the largest concentrations of active-duty military personnel in the country. Sailors, coast Guard members and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard employees commute daily along I-264 and I-664, two corridors where reckless driving charges are common. For these individuals, a conviction carries consequences that go far beyond fines and demerit points.
A Class 1 misdemeanor conviction on a reckless driving charge can:
- Trigger a security clearance review or suspension that threatens your military career
- Affect base access privileges and eligibility for promotions or specialized assignments
- Appear on background checks required for federal employment and contracting positions
Virginia also adds six demerit points to your driving record for a reckless driving conviction, and those points remain on your record for 11 years. Our attorneys understand what military clients stand to lose and build defense strategies that account for both the criminal and career implications of these charges.
Defense Options For Out-Of-State Drivers And Hampton Roads Commuters
Many reckless driving charges along the Hampton Roads corridor involve out-of-state drivers who do not realize Virginia treats reckless driving as a criminal offense rather than a simple traffic ticket. In many cases, our attorneys can appear in court on your behalf so you do not have to travel back to Virginia for your hearing.
Whether you were cited on I-264 near the Downtown Tunnel, on I-664 through Chesapeake or on a local Portsmouth road, our attorneys will review the facts of your case and identify every available defense, which may include:
- Challenging the calibration records of the radar or LIDAR device used to measure your speed
- Presenting GPS or other data that contradicts the officer’s speed reading
- Pursuing a reduction to improper driving, a noncriminal traffic infraction under Virginia law
Each case is different, and our attorneys evaluate every option before recommending a path forward.
Flat-Fee Representation With 24/7 Attorney Availability
We offer flat-fee pricing for reckless driving defense, so you know exactly what representation costs before we begin. No surprise billing and no hourly charges as your case moves forward.
Our attorneys are also available around the clock to answer your questions from the moment you receive a charge. Whether you are active-duty military, a shipyard employee or a commuter cited on a busy Portsmouth corridor, we are ready to respond when you need us.
Reduce Your Reckless Driving Ticket
At The Collins Law Firm, P.C., we are known for our work in the area of traffic violations. Let us put our experience and knowledge to work for you. Call 757-818-9539 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation with one of our experienced Virginia Beach lawyers to discuss your reckless driving charge.
We serve the Virginia Beach area and surrounding jurisdictions, including Portsmouth, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Hampton, Newport News, Williamsburg, Northampton County, Sussex County, Greensville County and James City County.