South Hill Reckless Driving Lawyer
When charged with reckless driving, it is imperative that an individual understands their rights. If found guilty of reckless driving, an individual could find themselves facing a suspension of driving privileges, monetary fines, and in the most extreme circumstances, jail time.
In the state of Virginia, a reckless driving charge remains on a motorist’s DMV record for up to 11 years. If you are facing reckless driving charges, you may be feeling overwhelmed and confused, which is normal. Working with a South Hill reckless driving lawyer can help alleviate your stress and help you understand how to best proceed in the court of law. A skilled reckless driving attorney can help fight your charges right away.
Defining Reckless Driving
The vast majority of reckless driving charges are related to speed. According to the Code of Virginia, if a driver exceeds the posted speed limit by more than 20 miles per hour or drives more than 80 miles per hour, they can be charged with reckless driving.
A driver can also be charged with driving recklessly if a police officer has any reason to believe that the individual’s driving endangers the lives of other drivers. The following offenses can also result in a reckless driving charge in South Hill:
- Passing a stopped school bus (if it is dropping off or picking up students)
- Racing
- Operating an overloaded vehicle
- Passing an emergency vehicle, such as a fire truck or ambulance
- Operating a vehicle with faulty breaks
Drivers can also be charged with reckless driving in other areas. In addition to highways and roads, someone can be charged with driving recklessly:
- In parking lots and garages, both residential and commercial
- Highways that are under construction
- Driveways
If found guilty of reckless driving, a motorist will be issued a Class 1 misdemeanor. This is the same type of misdemeanor issued to motorists convicted of DUI in the state of Virginia.
Most class 1 misdemeanors carry a fine of up to $250, however, harsher penalties are reserved for those convicted of felony reckless driving. The court can also suspend the convicted individual’s license for up to six months.
Factors Impacting a Case
Despite the law’s strict guidelines regarding speed, it is possible for a reckless driving lawyer in South Hill to have their client’s charge dismissed or reduced. Each individual reckless driving case is unique, but certain factors can positively impact their case. They could have their case reduced or dismissed if:
- They were speeding for emergency reasons
- They have a clean driving record
- The arresting officer was experiencing radar calibration issues
- Their speedometer displayed the incorrect speed
Judicial Discretion
In certain counties, judges are given a considerable amount of discretion in regards to reckless driving rulings.
If a South Hill reckless driving attorney manages to have their client’s charge reduced, they could walk away with an improper driving charge. This charge adds three points to their DMV record and requires them to pay a fine, but it is less serious than a reckless driving charge
Contacting a South Hill Reckless Driving Lawyer
If you are currently facing reckless driving charges, it would be wise to consider hiring a South Hill reckless driving lawyer. An experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and navigate the complex framework of the law.
Experienced South Hill reckless driving attorneys have extensive experience handling reckless driving cases, and they strive to provide their clients with the best legal advice possible. Contact today to learn more about their approach to reckless driving cases.