Virginia Beach Reckless Driving Lawyer
If you have been charged with reckless driving in Virginia, you may be wondering what the difference between reckless driving and a simple speeding ticket is. Unlike a simple speeding ticket, a reckless driving charge is an offense that can create a criminal record for the driver.
While many people do not believe speeding tickets are particularly serious, a reckless driving charge can carry harsher penalties and is considered a more serious offense in Virginia that is likely to require the help of an experienced Virginia Beach reckless driving lawyer. Call and schedule a consultation today to discuss your case with a traffic lawyer in Virginia.
What Is Considered Reckless Driving and Excessive Speeding?
There are numerous different violations that could result in a reckless driving charge, ranging from improperly passing another vehicle to failing to signal adequately. Excessive speeding, though, is an especially common reason for consulting a Virginia Beach reckless driving lawyer. Driving more than 20 miles per hour over the posted speed limit constitutes reckless driving under Virginia Code 46.2-862, as does driving more than 80 miles per hour, regardless of the posted speed limit.
What Are The Penalties for Reckless Driving in Virginia Beach?
A reckless driving charge is considered a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and $2500 in fines. Your license can also be suspended for up to 6 months. It is considered just as serious as driving under the influence charge, and enhanced penalties may be assigned in certain circumstances, such as for subsequent offenses, or if the reckless driving conduct resulted in the injury or death of another person.
If you have been charged with reckless driving, it is important to begin working with an experienced Virginia Beach reckless driving lawyer as soon as possible, especially if you are worried about how such a charge may affect your career opportunities, since security clearances, military obligations, commercial driving licenses, and other professional requirements may all be impacted by a reckless driving charge.
Virginia Beach Highways and Roadways Where Reckless Driving Charges Are Common
Because Virginia Beach is a popular vacation, entertainment and tourism destination, its highways and roadways are heavily patrolled. Interstate 264, formerly known as the Virginia Beach Expressway, is a common area where police may be on the lookout for reckless driving, as is nearby I-64, toward Norfolk, and US 58, toward the oceanfront. Improper use of the HOV lanes in this area may also raise red flags for potential reckless driving. Bird Neck Road, which also approaches the beach, Parks Avenue near the Virginia Beach Convention Center, Pacific Avenue and Atlantic Avenue at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, and 21st Street eastbound and 22nd Street westbound are also roadways where drivers should exercise additional caution.
Regardless of where you received a reckless driving charge, however, it is important to consult your Virginia Beach reckless driving attorney right away.
Consult an Experienced Virginia Beach Reckless Driving Lawyer
If you have been charged with reckless driving or excessive speeding in Virginia Beach, your Virginia Beach reckless driving lawyer can advise you regarding the legal process you are facing. If you were visiting Virginia Beach and are not a local resident, it is especially important to work with an experienced reckless driving attorney from Virginia Beach who is familiar with the jurisdiction.