Reckless Driving

Representation in Annandale for Reckless Driving

Were you driving recklessly or merely exceeding the posted speed limit like everyone else? The officer who charges you can call anything reckless driving if he thinks you were a danger to persons or property. It is unfair to expect a regular person to know exactly what reckless driving is, and it is unfair to charge a person with reckless driving if they have committed a much less severe traffic offense. At the Annandale offices of Lawrence T. Brooke, Attorney at Law, we protect the rights of everyday people and make sure they are not charged for crimes they did not commit.

Criminal Defense for Everyday People
Contact Lawrence T. Brooke, Attorney at Law

While it is possible that you could go to jail for up to a year, lose your license for six months, or pay thousands of dollars of fines, these consequences are unlikely for someone convicted of reckless driving for the first time in Virginia. The exception to that rule is excessive speed. For example; If you have a perfect driving record but you were going 90 MPH on the beltway you could easily go to jail and you will loose your license. Trying to negotiate a plea bargain and being ready to try the case if we must is the only way to proceed. You must be very careful if you are charged with this kind of offense.

If you are found guilty of reckless driving for the first time, it is much more likely that you will face the following consequences: your car insurance could cost thousands of dollars more, it will affect your security clearance, and the six-point conviction will go on your record.

Whenever possible and when it is in our client's best interests, we encourage our clients to make plea agreements that protect their rights. Prosecutors are often willing to reduce the charges to speeding or improper driving, and you could even have the charge reduced to defective equipment, if you can demonstrate that your speedometer was malfunctioning. Your prior driving record could also make a difference in the outcome of your case.

If making a deal is not in your best interest, the prosecution must show at trial that the officer's radar was properly calibrated, or if they paced you, they must show that your speedometer was calibrated and there was a proper pace. Even if you are found guilty, the court can decide that the charge was less severe and find you guilty of improper driving instead. We will be ready to challenge each element of the prosecution's case at trial.

Contact Us

You do not have to be treated like a criminal for one traffic violation. From our office in Annandale, conveniently located off two separate Beltway exits, we represent clients throughout D.C., Maryland and Virginia who have been charged with reckless driving in Fairfax County. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.