It is common for motorists to make mistakes, like driving just over the speed limit, rolling through a stop sign, or going through an intersection after the light turns yellow. While these errors should still be avoided, some misconduct behind the wheel goes far beyond instances of carelessness and poor judgment. Virginiaās statute on reckless driving targets acts that are so dangerous they cause a risk to life, limb, and property. Plus, the criminal laws include numerous provisions on specific conduct that amounts to reckless driving. These offenses are criminal in nature, so the implications are much more serious than a traffic ticket.
When the potential punishment for reckless driving includes incarceration and fines, you know that retaining legal representation is essential. Hampton Injury Law PLC is dedicated to protecting your rights, so we are ready to defend the charges. Please contact the firm to set up a case evaluation with a Virginia reckless driving lawyer. You can also benefit from a legal summary about these cases.
The general statute on reckless driving broadly expands to any conduct that presents a risk of harm to people or property. Provisions that address specific types of reckless driving conduct include:
In most cases, this offense is charged as a misdemeanor. If convicted, you face punishment for a Class 1 misdemeanor of up to a year in jail and a maximum fine of $2,500. Under certain circumstances, such as when a reckless motorist is driving on a suspended license, the charges rise to Class 6 felony. This type of felony is a āwobbler,ā which means it could be punished as a Class 1 misdemeanor. If it is treated as a felony, the sentence can be one to five years in prison.
Reckless driving also leads to points on your driverās license, a total of six points that will remain on your record for 11 years.
Because it is a crime, the government has a high burden to meet to get a conviction. Your initial strategy should include tactics to expose weaknesses in the case, so the prosecutor cannot prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. In addition, Hampton Injury Law PLC can handle other legal tasks, including:Ā
It is reassuring to know that defenses are available, but skilled legal counsel is necessary for getting them before the court. For more information, please call Hampton Injury Law PLC or complete our online contact form to request a case evaluation today.
Virginia truck accident lawyer Jan Hoen is prepared to fight to protect your legal rights. Contact Hampton Injury Law as soon as possible after a truck accident and allow attorney Jan Hoen to use his resources and experience to fight for you.
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