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I just got a ticket for wreckless driving. I accelerated up to 82 in a 45, no racing, just a stupid choice to try the new car out briefly. Just wondering if i need a lawyer for virginia beach(dont think i can afford one). I live in PA and plan to plea guilty as i know i was speeding, even if for only a few seconds, then slowed again. I have only one speeding ticket in the past few years for 65 in a 55, no accidents at all in 29 years. What can i expect to pay as i am going to have to borrow money for the fine- and i guess court costs?
Optional Information: State/Country of Question: Virginia Already Tried: i have not done anything yet. just got the ticket the 8th and court is 16 Oct.
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Is there a court date on the ticket? Or does it say you have to call for one?
Thanks
summoned to appear in general District Court-traffic
If you are cited for 20mph over the speed limit or at a speed greater than 80mph then you may be facing the very serious charge of reckless driving. In Virginia this is a criminal violation and a mandatory court appearance. The judge has the option of fining you up to 2500 plus one year in jail. Jail time is unusual but can happen. Reckless driving carries the possibility of a suspension of driving privileges for up to 6 months.
1) The most common form of reckless driving is speeding 20+ over the speed limit;
§ 46.2-862 . A person shall be guilty of reckless driving who drives a motor vehicle on the highways in the Commonwealth (i) at a speed of twenty miles per hour or more in excess of the applicable maximum speed limit or (ii) in excess of eighty miles per hour regardless of the applicable maximum speed limit.
(2) Driving in a manner generally endangering others;
§ 46.2-852. Reckless driving; general rule - Irrespective of the maximum speeds permitted by law, any person who drives a vehicle on any highway recklessly or at a speed or in a manner so as to endanger the life, limb, or property of any person shall be guilty of reckless driving.
DO NOT plead guilty without the advice of an attorney. Why? It is possible to have a defense to this charge. Sometimes you are charged with reckless driving, but the charge may more properly be the lower offense of "improper driving" - a non-criminal traffic offense. An improper driving charge carries with it up to a $500 fine, and a negative three-point violation on your Virginia DMV record. If you have a good driving record, you have a better chance of getting a reduction.
You can contact the Virginia Bar Association for a referral to an attorney who specializes in traffic law. It may give you 2 or 3 names. You can contact the attorney(s) for a phone consultation or ask to set up an appointment to discuss the specific facts of your case. Sometimes the consultations are free.
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This is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Experience: 20+ yrs in criminal, landlord/tenant, family, & small claims