Speed limits are set for a reason. A maximum speed limit is set by the government, which drivers must follow. Statistics have shown an increasing trend in speeding and reckless driving, resulting in serious injuries and even deaths. Unfortunately, many American drivers are still often found to be driving above the speed limit.
Some of the states, in America, treat reckless driving cases harshly than other states. In Chesterfield, Virginia, if a driver is either found driving above 80 miles per hour or driving 20 mph above the speed limit, it will be considered as reckless driving. The Virginia law states that both of the above offenses will fall under a class 1 misdemeanor criminal offense.
What Will Be the Punishment for Reckless Driving?
In Chesterfield, Virginia, if a driver is charged with reckless driving, they will have to serve the punishment for it.
The state of Virginia considers reckless driving as class 1 misdemeanor. The penalty for this offense requires the defendant to pay a fine of $2,500 and serve jail time subject to the severity of the case. The defendant’s driving license is confiscated for up to six months.
The penalties for traffic infractions, misdemeanors and felonies can obviously have a very negative impact on your life and lifestyle. Not only do these charges come with high fines, but the points that are associated with even the most minor offenses can result in increased insurance premiums and license suspension either through the court and/or through DMV.
How Can These Punishments Make An Impact Your Life?
Charges of class 1 misdemeanor from reckless driving will not only show on your driving track record, but also on your criminal record. This might make an impact on your employment and affect your promotions.
You will not be able to drive for around six months or so since your license will be confiscated.
Is There Any Legal Excuse For Reckless Driving?
The state of Virginia has allowed the only legal excuse for reckless driving if you or someone in your car is facing a life-threatening medical emergency. Depending on the severity of the case, the court sometimes considers it as a legal excuse.
How Can An Attorney Help In Dealing With Reckless Driving Charges?
Since the high statistics associated with reckless driving accidents, Chesterfield, Virginia has decided to deal with the law enforcement strictly and severely. If a driver already is found with a bad driving record, chances are that the judge will sentence jail time and suspend the license for a long period of time.
In such cases where an individual is charged with reckless driving in Chesterfield, the services of an attorney must be considered seriously. It is extremely important to have an attorney assist you in preparing your defense and presenting it in front of the court. The attorney will also help you in negotiating with the prosecutors as an attempt to lay off, reduce or alleviate the charges. Your attorney can question the evidence presented against you.
It is a significant and profitable step to retain the services of a reckless driving attorney in Chesterfield, Virginia. There is no one better than a Chesterfield attorney who can instruct and prepare you for the necessary steps that you will have to deal with.