Reckless Driving Ticket Options
Can you pay for a reckless driving ticket in Fairfax and forget about it? Learn the rules and regulations regarding reckless driving here.
A reckless driving ticket isn’t a simple pay-and-go traffic offense. It’s technically a criminal offense and you’ll need to go to court. This isn’t as scary as it seems, but it does change the process somewhat. You can’t simply pay before court. You can hire a lawyer who can appear on your behalf, but you will need to make sure you either go or have a lawyer go for you. A judge may just give you a fine if you fail to appear, however it is possible they issue a warrant for your arrest. This typically only happens at very high speeds, with very dangerous driving behavior or if your record is exceptionally bad.
In terms of options, some recommendations include:
- Plea Bargains – ask a lawyer if you should pursue a plea bargain, and if successful, the charge may be dismissed or lowered to an improper driving offense. This isn’t a crime, but a civil infraction.
- Pleading not guilty – Virginia outlines many ways that a reckless driving arrest can take place. Drivers can challenge the evidence. As an example, if you were charged with reckless driving through speeding, a speedometer calibration can be completed to prove that you were driving within limits, and that you were not driving recklessly.
The average cost of a reckless driving ticket or fine varies, but is between about $100-300. The fine is not really the biggest concern as there’s a good chance you’ll end up paying higher insurance fees, and tuition for driving school. Other costs may possibly include driver’s license suspension, a 6-point reduction from the DMV. You should review the specifics of your case before jumping to the conclusion that all these bad things apply to your case. Some people are better situated than others to avoid severe consequences. You should investigate your personal situation to see. For example, some insurance companies will be more lenient than others. Additionally, your time with the carrier and your age also influence the decision on your premiums.
To better prepare for your case, whether you want to plea bargain or head to trial, be sure to compile the following:
- Driving History – if you can prove that you’ve been a responsible driver thus far, there may be some leniency. The cost for this driving record is usually $13, and you can print this by going to the official department of motor vehicles for Virginia, and entering your personal information, plus driver’s license number.
- Speedometer Calibration – let a third party take a second look to see if you were indeed driving above speed limits. Don’t take the officer’s word for it.
- Take A Course – show initiative and prove that you’re willing to make the extra effort to drive better, and keep other members of Virginia safe. (Consult an attorney before enrolling in a course, as taking a course after court is often a substantially better idea.)
Reviewing the Consequences of Reckless Driving in Fairfax, Virginia
Don’t’ downplay how quickly a reckless driving charge can escalate into something more. It can become recorded for 11 years on your DMV reports. This can consequently affect employment and other facets of life each time someone pulls up your record.
This is why it’s essential to review your options. There may be some chance of filing an appeal if you were already convicted for reckless driving. Request legal aid to learn more. In any case, prosecutors won’t cut a deal without an attorney in Fairfax.
