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Western Branch 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. Our traffic attorneys will evaluate your options and create a game plan to dismiss or minimize your offense.

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 constitutes reckless driving in Virginia?
Reckless driving in Virginia encompasses various behaviors such as driving at excessive speeds, racing, passing a school bus, driving with faulty brakes, and more. Essentially, any driving behavior that endangers others or property can be considered reckless driving.
What are the consequences of reckless driving in Virginia?
Reckless driving is a serious offense in Virginia and can result in fines, license suspension, and even jail time, depending on the circumstances. Additionally, a reckless driving conviction can have long-term consequences on your driving record and insurance premiums.
Can I fight a speeding or reckless driving ticket in Virginia?
Yes, you have the right to contest a speeding or reckless driving ticket in Virginia. It’s advisable to seek legal counsel from an experienced traffic attorney who can help you understand your options and represent you in court.
How can a traffic attorney help me with my speeding or reckless driving case?
A traffic attorney can provide legal guidance, help negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you in court proceedings. They can work to minimize the consequences of your charges or potentially have them dismissed altogether.
Will a speeding or reckless driving conviction affect my insurance rates?
Yes, a speeding or reckless driving conviction can lead to increased insurance premiums. Insurance companies view these offenses as indicators of risky driving behavior and may adjust your rates accordingly.

Speak with us about Reckless Driving Defense Today

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

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

FAQ

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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