Reckless Driving Lawyer
Reckless driving is the conscious act of using gross negligence and reckless disregard when operating a vehicle. If you have been charged with a reckless driving violation, it is common to feel confused and overwhelmed. To bring clarity to your situation, our lawyers have created a guide on reckless driving and what to do for the next steps.
Reckless driving: defined
Also referred to as careless driving and dangerous driving, reckless driving is when the safety of other individuals on the road is compromised. The exact violations of this type of charge vary according to the specific state, but in general, here are some examples of reckless driving:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs
- Using excessive speed — often defined as going more than 20 mph over the posted speed limit signs
- Intentionally failing to yield to the right away
- Racing other vehicles
- Evading law enforcement if they have signaled for you to pull over
- Passing a stopped school bus
- Texting and/or speaking on the phone while driving
- Passing over a double yellow line
- Failure to use proper signals
- Driving a vehicle with known faulty brakes
Common charges for reckless driving
It is almost impossible to predict what your penalties will be, because they depend on the severity of the charge and your driving history. Some common charges include:
- Fines, anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
- Points on your license, usually the maximum amount allowed for each state.
- A license suspension.
- Mandatory attendance to a traffic school course.
- An increase in your auto insurance premium, as you will have to report this charge.
- Loss of a job if your job requires you to drive often.
- Jail time.
It is also important to note that a reckless driving charge will stay on your personal record permanently, no matter the penalty given.
Pleading guilty compared to working with a lawyer
It is easy to be tempted to simply send in your paperwork to plead guilty, then forget about it. However, there are long term consequences that come with pleading guilty that you may not be able to get out of, so it is wise to speak with a lawyer before making any decisions. While you have every legal right to represent yourself, it is wise to consult an attorney to fully understand the future implications of this.
Additionally, reckless driving is considered a criminal charge, meaning you have to show up in court. Having a reckless driving lawyer in Abingdon, VA can help to navigate the complex legal road ahead of you, and they can speak for you if you feel uncomfortable doing so. It is also a lawyer’s job to negotiate and fight for a lower plea deal if you do not agree with the charges brought against you.
Thanks to The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt for their insight into criminal defense and what you need to know if you’ve been charged with reckless driving.
