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Eastern Shore Speeding and Reckless Driving Attorneys


At Driving Defense Law, we are ready and prepared to defend your rights and zealously advocate on your behalf.

Our experienced attorneys know how to navigate the local courts in Virginia. If you are an out-of-state driver who has received a traffic ticket in Virginia contact us today. Our traffic attorneys will evaluate your options and create a game plan to dismiss or minimize your offense.

Eastern Shore Traffic Tickets

Speeding and Reckless Driving Defense for Out-of-State Drivers on the Eastern Shore of Virginia

Traveling through Virginia’s Eastern Shore can quickly become a legal headache if you’re pulled over for speeding or reckless driving—especially if you’re from out of state. Many drivers passing through on Rt 13 or the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel don’t realize how strictly Virginia enforces its traffic laws. Driving Defense Law is here to help you manage your case and minimize the consequences of a traffic violation.

Speeding Tickets on Rt 13: A Hotspot for Out-of-State Drivers

Rt 13 is a heavily trafficked route for drivers heading up and down the East Coast. Whether you’re traveling for business, vacation, or just passing through, out-of-state drivers are often pulled over for speeding along this stretch of highway. Virginia’s speed limits are enforced rigorously, and even minor speeding infractions can result in significant fines or more serious charges like reckless driving if you exceed certain speed thresholds.

If you’ve been ticketed for speeding on Rt 13, you could face penalties beyond just a fine. For example, speeding 20 miles per hour over the limit or exceeding 85 mph can lead to a reckless driving charge, which is a criminal offense in Virginia. Driving Defense Law has experience defending out-of-state drivers against these charges, working to reduce penalties and ensure that a ticket in Virginia doesn’t ruin your driving record or result in excessive penalties when you return home.

Reckless Driving on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel is not only an engineering wonder; it’s also a zone where reckless driving enforcement is strict. Due to the unique layout and traffic patterns, many drivers are cited for reckless driving for infractions that may seem minor elsewhere. In Virginia, reckless driving can be charged for a variety of actions, including speeding, unsafe lane changes, or following too closely. What might be considered a simple traffic ticket in another state can lead to a reckless driving charge here.

A reckless driving conviction can mean jail time, hefty fines, and a suspended license. For out-of-state drivers, the consequences can follow you back to your home state and impact your driving privileges there. Driving Defense Law understands the complexities of traffic law enforcement on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel and is prepared to defend your rights.

Out-of-State Speeding and Reckless Driving Tickets: What You Need to Know

If you’re from out of state and receive a speeding or reckless driving ticket in Virginia, you may be surprised to learn that these offenses are taken very seriously. Reckless driving is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia, which means it carries the same penalties as a DUI or assault. Additionally, through the Interstate Driver’s License Compact (IDLC), Virginia reports traffic violations to most other states, which means your home state will likely be notified of your offense.

The consequences of a speeding or reckless driving conviction can include points on your license, increased insurance rates, and even the suspension of your driving privileges, depending on the laws in your state. Driving Defense Law is experienced in handling out-of-state traffic violations and can help you manage the legal complexities of these charges.

Why You Need Driving Defense Law for Out-of-State Speeding and Reckless Driving Tickets

Dealing with a speeding or reckless driving ticket in Virginia is stressful enough, but it becomes even more complicated when you live out of state. Hiring Driving Defense Law gives you the advantage of having a local attorney who knows the Eastern Shore court systems and is familiar with the areas where these violations commonly occur, such as Rt 13 and the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. We can often appear on your behalf, work to reduce or dismiss the charges, and help you avoid the long-term consequences of a traffic conviction.

If you’ve been ticketed for speeding or reckless driving as an out-of-state driver on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, contact Driving Defense Law today. We’ll help you protect your rights and minimize the impact of your traffic ticket on your driving record.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving is a serious offense in Virginia as it is punishable as a Class 1 misdemeanor under Virginia Code 46.2-868.

If you find yourself holding a ticket for reckless driving, contact Driving Defense Law as you could be facing a criminal record.

Punishment for Reckless Driving in Virginia

For conviction of a class 1 misdemeanor – confinement in jail for up to a year and a fine of up to $2,500. (either or both)

A conviction of reckless driving carries with it 6 demerit points and up to 11 years of staying on your record. See the following:

  • Speeding in excess of 85 mph (11 years)
  • Speeding 20 mph or more above the posted speed limit (up to 11 years)
  • Racing (11 years)
  • Passing or overtaking an emergency vehicle (11 years)
  • Passing a school bus (11 years)
  • Passing on the crest of a hill (11 years)
  • Passing at a railroad crossing (11 years)
  • Passing two vehicles abreast (11 years)
  • Driving too fast for conditions (11 years)
  • Failing to give a proper signal (11 years)
  • Faulty brakes/improper control (11 years)
  • Reckless driving in parking lots (11 years)
  • Reckless driving with an obstructed view (11 years)

There are different categories of reckless driving as detailed by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. Including:

  1. Speeding more than 85 mph
  2. Speeding 20 mph or more over the limit
  3. Driving too fast for conditions
  4. Racing
  5. Passing or overtaking an ambulance or fire truck
  6. Passing a stopped school bus
  7. Passing on the crest of a hill
  8. Passing at a railroad crossing
  9. Passing two vehicles abreast
  10. Driving two vehicles abreast
  11. Failure to signal
  12. Driving with faulty brakes or improper control
  13. Reckless driving on parking lots
  14. Reckless driving with an obstructed view

Learn about the definition and consequences of reckless driving in the state of Virginia.

Speeding

Speeding tickets are no fun. If you find yourself holding a speeding ticket, you may want to simply pay the fine or explore other options. Driving Defense Law will help you navigate these options so that your speeding ticket doesn’t result in a long-term consequence.

Processing Fees/Court Costs of Speeding in Virginia

  • $62.00 for the first charge
  • $11 for each additional charge with the same court date
  • The worst maximum fine is $250 in addition to the $62 processing fee.
  • If the driver does not prepay the speeding ticket and does not appear in court there is an additional $35 fee.

A conviction on a basic speeding ticket normally amounts to a fine and a court fee. The fines are broken down above. However, you should know that a speeding ticket will also get you demerit points on your driving record. The number of points depends on the severity of speeding.

Fines

  • Fine of $6 per mile per hour in excess of posted speed limits
  • Fine of $7 per mile per hour in excess of posted speed limits for violation of 46.2-873 (school crossing zone) and 46.2-878.1 (highway work zone)
  • Fine of + $8 per mile per hour in excess of posted speed limits for a violation of 46.2-878.2 (the maximum speed limit in certain residence districts of counties, cities, and towns). The $8 per is an addition to a $200 fine.
  • Any person who drives in excess of 80 miles per hour but less than 86 miles per hour on any highway having a speed limit of 65 miles per hour is subject to an additional $100 fine

Frequent Questions

What is the difference between a DUI and DWI in Virginia?

In Virginia, there is no legal distinction between the terms DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Intoxicated). Both terms are used interchangeably and refer to the offense of operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or other substances. In Virginia, DUI and DWI are essentially the same offense, with no legal distinction between the two in terms of definition, penalties, or enforcement. If you have been charged with a DUI or DWI, contact Driving Defense Law today.

Should I speak to an attorney about a drunk driving charge?

Yes, it is generally a good idea to speak with an attorney if you are facing a drunk driving charge. Here are several reasons why:

  • Legal Expertise: DUI (Driving Under the Influence) laws can be complex and vary significantly by location. An attorney specializing in DUI cases will know the laws specific to your state.
  • Case Evaluation: An attorney can evaluate the specifics of your case, including the circumstances of your arrest and the evidence against you. This assessment is crucial for developing a defense strategy.
  • Protecting Your Rights: An attorney ensures that your rights are protected throughout the legal process. This includes making sure that the law enforcement procedures used in your case are lawful.
  • Potential for Better Outcomes: With professional legal representation, you may have a better chance of a favorable outcome, such as a dismissal or reduction of charges, lighter penalties, or a not guilty verdict.

Remember, every DUI case is unique, and the benefits of having legal representation can be significant. An experienced drunk driving attorney can provide specific advice about your unique situation.

Speak with us about DUI Defense Today

Contact us today and schedule a consultation to discuss how to begin structuring your DUI defense. To reach us, call or text 757-929-0335.

Learn about the definition and consequences of speeding in the state of Virginia.

CLIENT REVIEWS

DISCLAIMER – EACH CASE IS UNIQUE AND CASE RESULTS DEPEND ON YOUR INDIVIDUAL SITUATION. CASE RESULTS DO NOT GUARANTEE OR PREDICT A SIMILAR RESULT IN ANY FUTURE CASE UNDERTAKEN BY THE LAWYER.

The testimonials on this website reflect the real-life experiences and opinions of our clients. However, the experiences are personal to those particular clients, and may not necessarily be representative of all clients. We do not claim, and you should not assume, that all clients will have the same experience. Your outcome may vary.

Our experienced Virginia traffic attorneys know exactly what is needed to navigate your speeding or reckless driving case to success. 

We have experience in Courts throughout Virginia, including Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Hampton, Newport News, Isle of Wight, Southhampton, Northampton, and Accomack.  The lawyers at Driving Defense Law will create a unique gameplan for your case and execute a vigorous defense.

Have you been charged with speeding or reckless driving?

Please contact our office now for a FREE case evaluation with one of our traffic lawyers. 

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