A reckless driving ticket looks like any other speeding ticket. In Virginia, it isn't. It's a criminal charge, and it deserves your attention before your court date.
What counts as reckless driving
Driving 20 mph or more over the posted limit.
Driving faster than 85 mph, no matter what the limit is.
Driving in a way that puts people or property at risk, such as losing control of the car, passing on a curve, or racing.
What it can cost
Reckless driving is a Class 1 misdemeanor, the same class as a DUI. A conviction can bring:
Up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500
A license suspension of up to 6 months
6 demerit points that stay on your Virginia record for 11 years
A criminal record, and often higher insurance rates
Do courts send people to jail for reckless driving? Sometimes. As in any other case, the details matter:
How fast was the driver going?
What kind of vehicle was it?
How old is the driver?
What kind of road, and what were the road and traffic conditions?
What did the officer see?
What did the driver say about what happened?
Why you can't just pay it
Reckless driving can't be prepaid. It has to go through court, with you there or with your lawyer. If you live hours away or in another state, I may be able to handle your case without you coming to court.
What to do before your court date
Don't pay anything or plead to anything yet.
Write down what happened while it's fresh: the road, the weather, the traffic, and what the officer said.
Book a free call, and we'll go from there.
Charged with reckless driving?
A first call is free and takes about 15 minutes. Book a free call, or text (540) 858-5464.
This sheet is general information, not legal advice. Every case turns on its own facts. Reading it, or contacting me, doesn't create an attorney-client relationship.
