What Makes Reckless Driving Different From a Speeding Ticket?

Reckless driving by speed is different than a speeding ticket in a number of ways. First and foremost it’s a class 1 misdemeanor where speeding is a basic infraction. This means the penalties are much harsher on a reckless driving ticket than a normal speeding ticket and often come with potential jail sentences, loss of license, and very high fines. In addition, with a reckless driving charge you’re required to appear in court with whereas you are not required to appear and can simply prepay a speeding ticket.

For these reasons if you are charged with reckless driving it is imperative you consult with a Richmond reckless driving lawyer who can then help build a strong defense and advise you on how to proceed.

How Can You Tell The Difference Between Reckless Driving And A Regular Speeding Ticket?

You can tell the difference between a reckless driving ticket and a speeding ticket by the information on the ticket. Typically, the officer will write down reckless driving or he’ll cite to the code section, which you can look up to determine if it is reckless. Furthermore, if it is a reckless citation the officer will have you sign acknowledging that you must appear in court.

It is important you distinguish whether your ticket is a simple speeding ticket or a reckless driving charge as a reckless driving conviction looks very bad on your driving record. It is a class 1 misdemeanor criminal offense which can have an impact for purposes of background checks or a security clearance. In addition, a reckless driving conviction carries 6 demerit points where a normal speeding ticket usually carries only three or four points.

What Kind of Steps Can An Attorney Take To Help You With A Reckless Driving Case?

An attorney will advise you of the law, advise you of the penalties, and advise you on what steps you can take to mitigate the penalties and mitigate the damages of the case. In addition, your attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor and officers to get the matter reduced or even possibly dismissed. Furthermore, the attorney can argue your case before the Court and present a defense in an attempt to get it reduced or dismissed.

How Can a Reckless Driving By Speed Charge Affect A Commerical Driver’s License Holder?

A Reckless driving ticket can have a significant effect on a CDL driver’s license. If you’re convicted of a reckless driving your CDL could be for a period of time or even permanently. In addition to that, you can also lose your job as a result of a reckless driving conviction because of the insurance implications. Courts in Richmond and around the state are actually tougher on CDL drivers than they are on normal drivers and Virginia law does not allow judges to refer CDL drivers to driving schools.