what type of lawyer to get for reckless driving

by Dr. Alison Krajcik 3 min read

If you have been injured by a reckless driver, our Orlando car accident attorneys at Payer Law believe that you deserve sufficient compensation for your damages. With the help of a personal injury attorney, you can file a claim against the liable party.

Sadly, most people don't know this when they waive their right to counsel. That is why if you are arrested or charged with reckless driving, stop, take a breath, and seek the services of a criminal defense attorney. It can make a huge difference.Sep 9, 2020

Full Answer

Should I hire a lawyer for my reckless driving?

Apr 06, 2022 · But many drivers don’t know what counts as reckless driving. Below, we’ll get into the different types of reckless driving. This will help you determine whether you need a car accident lawyer. Keep reading to learn more! Reckless Driving: A Basic Definition. Reckless driving means operating a vehicle in a manner that is not careful or prudent.

Do I need a lawyer for a reckless driving charge?

Jun 21, 2018 · Even if your state classifies reckless driving as a driving offense, you can still benefit from the aid of a lawyer. A traffic violation attorney can represent you in court, negotiate a plea bargain, or seek to lower your fines or jail time.

Should you hire a lawyer for your reckless driving ticket?

Virginia Reckless Driving Lawyer. A Virginia reckless driving lawyer represents those charged with serious traffic offenses in a state with some of the nation’s toughest traffic laws. The consequences for a reckless driving conviction go far beyond the typical ticket or traffic citation to include not only fines, but also the possible suspension of a driver’s license, jail time, and a …

How much does a VA reckless driving lawyer cost?

Instead, find a reckless driving attorney who has a strong reputation among other lawyers and judges in the area. 7. Peace of Mind. You might not know how your case will go if you try to handle it by yourself. Instead, hire a reckless driving attorney. Relying on their experience and expertise will give you peace of mind.

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How long does reckless driving stay on record in VA?

11 years
How long does a reckless driving conviction in VA stay on my DMV record? Reckless driving remains on your Virginia driving record for 11 years. However, if your Virginia traffic attorney is able to get the charge reduced, the reduced charge may remain on your record for a shorter period of time.

How do I fight a reckless driving ticket in California?

The best way to fight a reckless driving charge in California is to hire an experienced reckless driving defense attorney. By placing your trust in a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney, you can be confident that he will devise the best defense to fight the charge.Jan 29, 2016

What is the most important element of reckless driving?

Proving the Elements of Reckless Driving

To prove reckless driving, you'll need to show that: The driver drove their vehicle on a public thoroughfare, private access way, or parking lot; and. The driver drove with “willful or wanton disregard” for another person's or property's security.

What is the penalty for reckless driving in VA?

Reckless driving crosses the mark from traffic infractions to a criminal charge, so it is a Class One misdemeanor. Class One misdemeanors come with a maximum fine of $2,500 and the possibility of jail time for up to 12 months, so it is serious.

Can you go to jail for reckless driving in California?

The first thing you should understand is that reckless driving is far more than another traffic infraction. Upon conviction of a standard reckless driving charge, you will typically face a 90-day jail sentence, two points on your license, a $1,000 fine, and a six-month suspension of your driver's license.Dec 7, 2021

What do you get for careless driving?

Punishments can include a mandatory disqualification, extended retest and unlimited fine, or a 5 years prison sentence. If you are charged with causing death by careless driving, you should seek legal advice.Apr 27, 2018

Is reckless driving a criminal offense?

Damages and Injuries as a Result of Reckless Driving

According to DOJ, "depending on the extent of damages caused, a person may be charged with crimes such as physical injuries, damage to property or even homicide and murder."
Sep 30, 2018

Why do people get reckless driving?

Some reckless driving behaviors come from driver inexperience and peer pressure – especially among teen drivers. Young or new drivers may not understand the dangers of willful or wanton driving offenses such as speeding. They do not have enough driving experience to recognize how deadly reckless driving can be.

How does reckless driving cause accidents?

Reckless driving accidents, in most cases, are a result of a number of traffic violations in which the driver displays complete disregard for on-the-road signs, signals, and laws. The most common ones are: Tailgating, or simply driving way too close to the car in front. Completely ignoring red lights and stop signs.

How do you get a reckless driving ticket dismissed in Virginia?

How to Get Out of Reckless Driving Ticket
  1. Ignore the Reckless Driving Charge. It's a choice, but it's not a good one. ...
  2. Send a Letter. The next approach you might take to handling your case is to send a letter to the court. ...
  3. Appear by Yourself. ...
  4. Hire a Lawyer to Fight the Reckless Driving Charge.

How do I get a reckless driving ticket reduced in Virginia?

As long as you do not possess a commercial driver's license, the judge is permitted to be lenient in cases of reckless driving by recommending that you attend a driver improvement clinic or perform community service in lieu of the normal penalties for the charge.Feb 22, 2021

Can you go to jail for reckless driving in Virginia?

Reckless Driving in Virginia

Reckless driving is usually a Class 1 misdemeanor and is punishable by up to one year in jail, six months suspended driver's license, six points on your driving record in Virginia, and a fine of up to $2,500.
Jan 11, 2017

What is reckless driving in Virginia?

A Virginia reckless driving attorney represents those charged with serious traffic offenses in a state with some of the nation’s toughest traffic laws. The consequences for a reckless driving conviction go far beyond the typical ticket or traffic citation to include not only fines, but also the possible suspension of a driver’s license, jail time, and a criminal record that can impact future employment opportunities. A criminal traffic conviction can also cause a dramatic increase in insurance premiums, potentially creating a financial hardship that can last for several years. If you have been charged with a serious criminal traffic offense, protect your rights, your privileges, and your future with the help of a seasoned legal professional. The stakes are much higher when you are facing a criminal charge as opposed to a simple traffic violation, a qualified reckless driving lawyer in Virginia will both understand that and reflect it in their passion and intensity for the case. A competent VA lawyer will fight on your behalf until they reach the final resolution of your reckless driving case.

Where is reckless driving heard?

Reckless driving cases, along with other traffic and criminal violations, will be heard at the courthouse complex on King Street. We know what the Commonwealth’s attorneys are looking for in these cases and what type of evidence they need to convict.

Is speeding a citation in Virginia?

Speeding. A criminal traffic charge is not a simple citation or moving violation. Reckless driving in Virginia is a class I misdemeanor that carries the possibility of a suspended license, significant fines, and even jail time. Furthermore, conviction of a criminal traffic offense leads to a criminal record without provision for expungement.

Can a Virginia reckless driving lawyer help you?

You have alternatives for avoiding conviction, and a skilled Virginia reckless driving lawyer can help. In some cases, if you are represented by an attorney, they may appear in court on your behalf, saving you the time and hassle of a court appearance.

Can you mail a summons for reckless driving?

Unlike with a typical traffic ticket, you cannot simply mail in your payment for a reckless driving summons. It is a criminal charge, and you may face conviction and additional penalties beyond the fine. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding your case, you do not have to plead guilty. You have alternatives for avoiding conviction, ...

What is the number to call for reckless driving in Fairfax County?

If you’ve been ticketed and/or arrested recently for reckless driving in Fairfax County, or anywhere in the Commonwealth of Virginia, call one of our Fairfax County reckless driving lawyers today for a free case consultation at 703-273-6431 (or use our online contact form .)

How to avoid misdemeanor driving?

Depending on the type of ticket you currently have and/or what past tickets are on your record, an online or an in-person driver improvement class might be best. There are several different types of classes that you can complete that will help you avoid a misdemeanor conviction. For example, many of those who are charged with reckless driving tickets are charged because they were speeding. The speed will make the difference on what class you should take. The standard driver improvement class is 8 hours and can be done online. The 8-hour online class is normally reserved for lower speed reckless driving tickets or those who have a few tickets on their record. There is also an 8-hour in-person class. The in-person class is normally used in cases where the speeds are higher than normal and there are aggravating circumstances such as negative points on your driving record or more serious driving behavior accompanied with the speed. Finally, there is a 4-hour aggressive driving class. This class is offered after completion of the 8 hour in-person class. Normally a person is informed to complete both the 8 hour and 4 hour in-person class when the driving behavior seems particularly dangerous either with a very high speed or a bad accident.

How long is aggressive driving class?

Finally, there is a 4-hour aggressive driving class. This class is offered after completion of the 8 hour in-person class. Normally a person is informed to complete both the 8 hour and 4 hour in-person class when the driving behavior seems particularly dangerous either with a very high speed or a bad accident. Calibrations.

What happens if you go to court without an attorney?

If you decide to go to court without an attorney you will be speaking directly with the judge. That judge may inform you to get an attorney or let you handle the case that day without one.

What is the best way to avoid a misdemeanor?

Depending on the type of ticket you currently have and/or what past tickets are on your record, an online or an in-person driver improvement class might be best. There are several different types of classes that you can complete that will help you avoid a misdemeanor conviction.

Can you negotiate a case before the court date in Fairfax County?

Because the prosecutors are not assigned until the morning of court, there is no way to negotiate your case prior to the court date listed. The prosecutors in Fairfax County have more discretion than some surrounding areas which lead to a variety of results depending on the situation.

Is reckless driving a crime in Fairfax County?

Don’t assume that a reckless driving ticket in Fairfax County, Virginia, is harmless. It’s a criminal charge that can follow you around for a long time, just like a DUI, no matter where you live. You may consider representing yourself in court because of cost concerns.

What is aggressive driving?

Aggressive driving can include yelling, inappropriate gestures, excessive honking, tailgating and other actions that intimidate other drivers. If you exhibit aggressive behavior while behind the wheel, it can distract you from the road and possibly frighten and distract other drivers.

What are the distractions of driving?

Common distractions for drivers include texting on cell phones, eating, and talking to passengers.

What is reckless driving?

Reckless driving can encompass a wide variety of driving behavior. A reckless driver is one who intentionally disregards traffic laws and endangers the safety of other drivers and pedestrians. This driving behavior is punishable by law and may result in the suspension of your license. The 5 most common types of reckless behavior are listed below.

What is the most common type of reckless driving?

Distracted driving is most common type of reckless driving. This particular type of reckless driving behavior can include a wide range of activities:

What is distracted driving?

Essentially, distracted driving is any type of driving that redirects your attention from the road to elsewhere. Often it only takes a few seconds of our eyes off the road for accidents to occur.

Is street racing considered reckless driving?

Street racing on both public and private property is considered reckless driving. Most people engage in this particular activity in areas that are usually abandoned. However, you can never be completely when other drivers will be present in these seemingly deserted areas. When street racing it is relatively easy to lose control of your vehicle. Crashing into objects or other vehicles as a result of speed racing can leave serious damage and inflict injury.

Is aggressive driving a misdemeanor?

Aggressive driving is another common type type of reckless driving. Aggressive driving can is considered a Class 2 misdemeanor. However, intention to harm someone while driving aggressively is a Class 1 misdemeanor. This can result in up to 12 months of jail time. Aggressive driving can take very different forms:

Evidence That May Help You Fight Reckless Driving Charges

It is possible to get a reckless driving charge dropped (or at least reduced) with the help of a legal professional. However, whether or not this is possible does depend on the specifics of each case. Judges will only choose to drop cases that prove the individual’s minor culpability.

When Can a Reckless Driving Charge be Dropped?

Reckless driving cases are typically only dismissed if any of the evidence listed above can be found and be presented in court. The judge may drop a reckless driving charge immediately following the presentation of such evidence.

How to Reduce a Reckless Driving Charge

If there is not enough evidence to support the case being dropped, there is still a possibility that the charges can be reduced. In this case, the charges will be lessened to negligent or improper driving rather than reckless driving. These are not criminal offenses, so the driver’s criminal record will remain clean.

What if I Choose to Come to Court?

Anyone charged with reckless driving can choose to go to court with an attorney or represent themselves, speaking directly to the judge. A judge may, however, advise a defendant to obtain legal counsel. Having representation can substantially improve a defendant’s chances of getting the reckless driving charges dropped or reduced.

How to Fight a Reckless Driving Ticket: Tips from Experts

For anyone who has received a reckless driving ticket, getting the charge reduced or dismissed can be worth the time invested in the process. An attorney can assist in finding evidence against the charges and presenting this evidence to the court. In addition, there are things the defendant can do to help improve chances of a positive outcome.

Conclusions

Pleading down a careless driving ticket is possible with the right legal help. An experienced attorney will be able to inform you of your legal rights and will know how to get a careless driving ticket dismissed. The attorney will be able to look for evidence that supports your case.

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