Leesburg Reckless Driving Defense Lawyer

In many cases, accusations that a person has violated traffic laws will result in traffic tickets that involve fines. However, some traffic crimes are more serious, since they could result in criminal convictions. Reckless driving is one such offense, and it is a Class 1 misdemeanor that carries the possibility of jail time, a substantial fine, and a criminal record.

There are numerous situations where people may face reckless driving charges in the Leesburg area. When a person is accused of driving in a manner that a police officer believed to be dangerous, they may face serious consequences. At Noorishad Law, P.C., our lawyer can provide representation when defending against traffic crime charges. He understands how these cases work in Loudoun County courts, and he will work to resolve a case and help a person achieve the best possible outcome.

Common Reasons for Reckless Driving Arrests

Reckless Driving at High Speeds

Charges related to excessive speeding can be more serious than a simple speeding ticket in some cases. If a person is accused of driving 20 miles per hour above the speed limit, they could be charged with reckless driving. This charge may also apply in any situation where a person drives 85 miles per hour or more, no matter the speed limit in the area where the offense occurred. On a highway with a speed limit of 70 miles per hour, a driver traveling at 86 miles per hour can be charged with a criminal offense, even if other nearby vehicles were driving at a similar speed.

Passing a Stopped School Bus

State laws require drivers to stop when a school bus is stopped to load or unload children or other passengers. A failure to stop when required can lead to a reckless driving charge. This offense may apply whether a person was traveling in the same direction as the bus or approaching from the opposite direction on an undivided roadway. In some cases, a person may not have seen a school bus's flashing lights in time to stop, but they could still face charges for this offense.

Passing on a Curve or Hill

Passing is prohibited in certain locations where visibility is limited. On two-lane roads, drivers are not allowed to pass other vehicles that are traveling in the same direction if they are approaching a hill or curve that prevents them from seeing vehicles approaching in the opposite direction. Reckless driving charges may apply even if no collision occurred and no other vehicle was present.

Failing to Maintain Control of a Vehicle

Driving a vehicle with faulty brakes or in another situation where a person is not in control of their vehicle could lead to reckless driving charges. In some situations, a driver may have been unaware of mechanical issues, but they could still face charges if there were reasons that they could not drive safely.

Street Racing

Racing with other vehicles on a public road or highway could lead to charges of reckless driving. Other situations may also be classified as "exhibition driving," and a person could face criminal charges if they engaged in behavior that put other people at risk.

Other Forms of Reckless Driving

Additional reckless driving offenses under Virginia law include:

• Passing at a Railroad Crossing: Charges may apply if a person passes another vehicle on a two-lane road when traveling through a railroad crossing.
• Driving With an Obstructed View: When passengers or objects obstruct a driver's ability to see the road or interfere with their ability to control their vehicle, the driver could be charged with reckless driving.
• Failing to Signal Properly: Passing, changing lanes, slowing down, or stopping without signaling could be considered reckless driving.

Penalties for Reckless Driving in Virginia

In general, reckless driving is a Class 1 misdemeanor offense. A person who is convicted could be sentenced to up to 12 months in jail, and they could face fines as high as $2,500. Unlike a traffic ticket, a misdemeanor conviction cannot be expunged in Virginia. Records related to reckless driving offenses will be permanent, and they may appear on background checks conducted by employers, landlords, or licensing boards.

In some cases, reckless driving could be charged as a felony. If a person engaged in behavior that led to someone's death, and their driver's license had been suspended or revoked at the time of the offense, they could be charged with a Class 6 felony, punishable by one to five years in prison.

Contact Our Leesburg, Virginia Reckless Driving Defense Attorney

At Noorishad Law, P.C., our attorney can help you respond to a reckless driving charge and defend against a conviction. With his knowledge of Loudoun County courts and the ways these cases are prosecuted, he can argue that your conduct was not serious enough to be considered reckless driving, and he can take steps to reduce the charges or secure less serious penalties. He will work hard to protect your record, your license, and your future. Contact our Leesburg reckless driving lawyer at 703-542-4500 to set up a complimentary consultation.