Occoquan Reckless Driving Lawyer
A person can be charged with reckless driving for a variety of reasons, including speeding, driving aggressively, or driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In general, driving in a reckless and unsafe manner even when adhering to the speed limit can result in reckless driving charges. If you are facing reckless driving charges, an Occoquan reckless driving lawyer could assist you with your case.
It is sometimes possible to have a reckless driving charge reduced to a lesser charge or even dismissed altogether when certain mitigating factors exist, such as a clean driving record with no history of reckless driving. A seasoned traffic defense attorney could identify possible mitigating factors that could potentially be used to help fight the charges you are facing.
Acts of Improper and Reckless Driving
The motor vehicle code of Virginia specifies several acts that constitute improper or reckless driving. In general, reckless driving involves operating a motor vehicle in a reckless and unsafe manner that puts others or their property in danger. Committing any of the following acts while driving could result in charges of improver or reckless driving:
- Driving aggressively
- Driving above the speed limit
- Attempting to race other vehicles
- Failing to use the turn signals
- Passing stopped school buses
- Passing vehicles while rounding a curve
- Driving under the influence
Acts of reckless driving are not limited to the examples listed above. Driving a vehicle in any way that is unsafe or reckless could constitute driving recklessly, even if a driver is operating within the speed limit or following other rules of the road. An Occoquan reckless driving lawyer could answer specific questions regarding improper and reckless driving.
Mitigating and Aggravating Factors
Certain factors could result in reckless driving charges either being reduced to lesser charges or elevated to more serious ones. Factors that could potentially reduce reckless driving charges or the penalties associated with reckless driving are called mitigating factors, while factors that could result in more serious charges or penalties are called aggravating factors.
Examples of mitigating factors include having a good driving record with no history of improper or reckless driving or a faulty speedometer that is not displaying accurate readings. Additionally, if an individual’s allegedly reckless driving was due to an emergency, such as rushing to the hospital, for instance, that could potentially serve as a mitigating factor.
Aggravating factors that could result in the elevation of misdemeanor reckless driving charges to felony ones include driving without a valid driver’s license, driving at a speed excessively over the speed limit, or driving in an unsafe manner that caused another person’s death. An Occoquan reckless driving attorney could provide more information about mitigating and aggravating factors that could affect reckless driving charges and their penalties if a conviction results.
Potential Penalties for Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is a Class 1 misdemeanor offense in Occoquan. Upon conviction, the penalty is a fine, confinement in jail for up to 12 months, and suspension of one’s license. When aggravating factors are present, and a reckless driving charge is elevated to a Class 6 Felony, the penalty upon conviction is a fine, suspension or revocation of one’s license and confinement in prison for one to five years.
Let an Occoquan Reckless Driving Attorney Assist You
Being charged with reckless driving could potentially result in suspension or loss of your driver’s license, a fine, and confinement in jail or prison. It is in your best interest to obtain legal assistance from an Occoquan reckless driving lawyer who could help you fight for the best possible outcome, including a reduction in the charge against you or its associated penalty.
An attorney familiar with the laws on reckless driving could identify potential mitigating factors and develop a strategy for defending you against the charges you are facing. Speak with an attorney for reckless driving in Occoquan about your case today.
