What Are Some Examples of Reckless Driving?

Criminal Defense Attorneys Serving Fairfax, Leesburg & Manassas, Virginia

 
Posted: December 28, 2020
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A blurry view of emergency vehicle lights through a wet windshield

A police officer may pull you over and cite you for reckless driving. The officer may do so if they think you are driving with disregard for people and property. In Virginia, speeding alone can lead to a reckless driving citation, or other behaviors may be cited as reckless:

  • Speeding
  • Passing a stopped school bus
  • Failing to signal
  • Using the shoulder to pass
  • Passing with an obstructed view
  • Passing two vehicles abreast
  • Running a red light or stop sign
  • Failing to yield
  • Overloaded car
  • Failure to maintain control of the vehicle
  • Faulty brakes
  • Racing

In Virginia, there is a reckless driving statute related to speed that says you may be found guilty of reckless driving for driving more than 20 mph over the posted speed limit, or over 80 mph in any scenario.

Reckless driving is a serious criminal charge in Virginia. Potential penalties for a conviction include:

  • Points against your driver’s license
  • Fines
  • Suspension of driver’s license
  • Jail time

The exact penalties doled out to a motorist convicted of reckless driving depend on the nature of the charge as well as the motorist’s driving record. Jail time is unlikely except in cases where speeds in excess of 90 mph are involved, and/or the motorist has other citations on their driving record.

Our defense attorneys work to minimize the impact of a reckless driving charge on your life and well-being, to the fullest extent possible. While we cannot guarantee a certain outcome, we are passionate about fighting to protect our clients’ futures. A suspended license, fines, jail time or points against your license can have a lasting effect on your day-to-day life.

You need a defense attorney who understands reckless driving cases in your county. Our experienced lawyers are well-versed in county-specific differences in these cases and know how to strategize accordingly.

If you’ve been charged with reckless driving and want to protect your future to the fullest extent possible, please arrange a complimentary consultation with the experienced defense attorneys at the Gordon Law Firm by calling our team at 703-218-8416. You can also text us at 703-591-6682. We represent clients from across Northern Virginia, including Fairfax, Fairfax County, Loudon County, Arlington, Alexandria and Prince William County.