How Much Does a Reckless Driving Ticket Cost?
I represent citizens throughout Virginia against various charges, including reckless driving. People often ask me, What does a Virginia reckless driving ticket cost? and What happens if the court convicts me of reckless driving?
At Andrew Flusche, Attorney at Law, PLC, I fiercely defend drivers and fight to protect their rights. Here are some things you should know about reckless driving charges.
What Constitutes Reckless Driving?
Let’s start with the basics of understanding reckless driving in VA. The criminal code of Virginia contains the definition of reckless driving. Based on this code, the police charge a person with reckless driving if they believe that a person’s driving was reckless or at a speed or in a manner that could or did endanger the life, limb, or property of any person.
Police can charge you with both reckless driving and speeding. But you can also be charged with one of those offenses and not the other.
Examples of Reckless Driving
Virginia considers a far more comprehensive array of conduct reckless driving than in other states. Some examples of reckless driving could be:
- Failing to give proper signals,
- Driving too fast for highway and traffic conditions,
- Exceeding the speed limit,
- Reckless driving on parking lots,
- Driving with a driver’s view obstructed or control impaired, and
- Racing or aiding racing.
But the list does not end with the above. Police consider weather, car conditions, road conditions, speed, and several other factors when determining whether driving is reckless. Meet with an attorney to discuss your charges. Remember, being charged does not mean that you are guilty.
Is Reckless Driving Just a Citation?
While there is a range of behaviors that may constitute reckless driving, one thing is clear: reckless driving is a criminal offense in Virginia. There is not only a general reckless driving statute but also specific reckless driving crimes in our laws.
While other states, including those surrounding Virginia, sometimes classify reckless driving as a traffic violation, Virginia law defines and punishes reckless driving as criminal lawlessness.
How Much Is a Reckless Driving Ticket?
If law enforcement has charged you with reckless driving, you are likely concerned about the Virginia reckless driving ticket cost and if there will be other consequences. There is usually a fine and court costs for reckless driving. However, it is essential to know that:
- The fine can be up to $2,500;
- Jail time is a possible additional punishment; and
- A conviction of reckless driving will remain on your record.
The range of punishments depends on numerous factors. A criminal defense attorney is in the best position to estimate your charge’s cost and other outcomes and defend you.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Reckless Driving Ticket?
It would be best if you had an experienced attorney for your reckless driving case. Far too often, individuals consider a reckless driving charge as no different than a speeding ticket. This is not accurate. Reckless driving is a crime, and you should approach the charge as such.
Don’t focus solely on how much is a reckless driving ticket in VA—you may be facing more than just costs. Hire an attorney. A conviction of reckless driving can jeopardize your freedom, financial security, and even your job.
Andrew Flusche, Attorney at Law, PLC: Defending You in Criminal Cases
Andrew Flusche, Attorney at Law, PLC is a traffic defense firm in Spotsylvania, VA. I have worked hard to build a reputation as a top-notch legal defender in reckless driving and DWI cases. You can reach my office by phone, online form, or email.
I will fight to get your charges dismissed or reduced. If you are wondering, How much is a reckless driving ticket in Virginia? you need Andrew Flusche, Attorney at Law, PLC.
