McLean, VA Reckless Driving Attorney

Proactive Traffic Crimes Attorney for Charges of Reckless Driving in McLean, Virginia

A reckless driving charge is not like a traffic ticket for speeding or running a red light. The latter charges are examples of infractions, a type of civil offense that is less serious than a criminal charge. Violations carry no jail time, although they could lead to a potential fine and points on your license. On the other hand, reckless driving is a misdemeanor traffic crime that can carry serious consequences. It is more comparable to a DUI charge than an ordinary traffic ticket.

You could be sentenced to up to one year in jail if you are convicted of a misdemeanor based on accusations of reckless driving. Your driver's license could also be suspended for up to six months, which can be a tremendous inconvenience. You will need a skilled lawyer who can protect you against a conviction and prevent you from facing jail time or other harsh consequences.

You have the right to fight back with an attorney's help when you have been accused of reckless driving. Noorishad Law, P.C. is highly experienced in traffic crimes defense, and we strive to secure outstanding results for each client. Dedicated McLean, VA reckless driving attorney Kaveh Noorishad will formulate the defense strategy that is right for you. You do not have to plead guilty and accept the penalties. With a strong defense, your case may be dismissed, or you may receive a not guilty verdict after a trial. Attorney Noorishad will do what is best for you at every stage in your case.

What Is Reckless Driving?

Reckless driving is something of a "catch-all" charge that covers a wide range of dangerous driving practices. Generally, driving in any manner that endangers people and property around you could result in reckless driving charges. You might be charged with this offense for:

• Excessive Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit by more than 20 miles per hour may lead to reckless driving charges. Driving at least 85 miles per hour in any location, regardless of the posted speed limit, can also be considered reckless driving. In fact, you could potentially be charged with reckless driving for traveling at any speed that is plainly unsafe given your surroundings.
• Racing: You do not need to be involved in an organized street race to be charged with reckless driving. Having a casual race with a friend while you are driving together is enough, as you are much more likely to get in an accident while racing.
• Dangerous Passing: Passing another vehicle in an unsafe manner can lead to reckless driving charges. On a two-lane road, passing near a curve or hill where you may not be able to see an oncoming vehicle or passing multiple vehicles at a time can be considered reckless. Rapidly weaving in and out of traffic on the highway can also lead to charges of reckless driving.

Defenses to Reckless Driving

Possible defense strategies in a reckless driving case include:

• Proving Extenuating Circumstances: If you were driving the way you were due to a genuine emergency, you may have a powerful defense. For example, if your passenger began having a heart attack, your efforts to get them to the hospital quickly will likely be excused. Or, if you made a reckless maneuver because a bee flew into your car and you are allergic, this could also be the basis of a strong defense.
• Arguing That You Were Careless but Not Reckless: Careless driving is less serious than reckless driving. Reckless driving involves a blatant disregard for the safety of others, while careless driving could simply mean that you were briefly distracted. Having a charge reduced to careless driving could result in less serious penalties.

Contact Our McLean Reckless Driving Attorney

Noorishad Law, P.C. takes reckless driving cases seriously. McLean, VA reckless driving defense lawyer Kaveh Noorishad is client-focused and results-driven. Contact us at 703-542-4500 for a complimentary consultation.