Reckless Driving Lawyer

If you have been charged with a reckless driving conviction, it is common to feel nervous, overwhelmed, and unsure of what to do next. In order to fully understand what reckless driving is and the process of that goes into answering a charge, lawyers have created a guide on everything you need to know when it comes to a reckless driving law.

What constitutes as reckless driving?

Reckless driving is used as an umbrella term for a lot of different offenses. Some examples include:

  • Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs
  • Use of excessive speed, usually considered reckless when driving over 20 mph than the posted speed limit sign
  • Running red lights and stop signs
  • Evading law enforcement after they have signaled for you to pull over
  • Passing a stopped school bus
  • Failure to yield right of way
  • Racing other vehicles
  • Weaving in and out of traffic at high speeds, without proper signals
  • Texting and/or talking on the phone while driving

What are some consequences of reckless driving?

It is hard to predict exactly the consequences you can face with a reckless driving charge, because the final verdict depends on your driving record and if this is the first time you are charged with this offense.

If your driving actions were proven to show gross negligence and reckless disregard, the potential consequences include:

  • Fines, which can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
  • Taking a mandatory defensive driving course.
  • Points on your license.
  • Suspension of your license.
  • Lost of a job if your job requires you to drive regularly.
  • Increase in your car insurance premium.
  • Jail time.

It is important to note that depending on the situation, the consequences given can be a mixture of any of the above.

How will hiring an attorney help me?

A reckless driving offense is a criminal charge, so it is always best to seek legal counsel to navigate the complex legal road ahead of you. Of course, anyone is legally able to represent themselves in the court of law, but it is generally not advised. Working with an experienced lawyer from our law firm can help you in many ways.

It is common to think that you can easily send in your charge with a guilty plea, but you may not necessarily be aware of any long term consequences. A lawyer can explain what exactly a guilty plea means, and the other methods you may be able to take to lessen the charges brought against you.

In addition, because reckless driving is considered a criminal offense, you will have to show up in court to say your plea. It goes without saying that having a legal advocate will make this process easier, as a lawyer even has the authority to talk for you if you are uncomfortable doing so yourself.

Source: Reckless Driving Lawyer Hillsville, VA, The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt