Reckless Driving in Virginia: What Happens If You’re Caught Going 85 MPH?

Reckless driving is a serious offense in Virginia, and driving at excessive speeds, such as 85 mph, can lead to severe legal consequences. Virginia’s traffic laws are strict, and speeding at high rates — especially above 80 mph — can result in a reckless driving charge, even if you’re not causing an accident. Here’s a breakdown of the key facts about reckless driving for going 85 mph in Virginia, the penalties you may face, and how to handle this charge.

What is Reckless Driving in Virginia?

In Virginia, reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle in a way that endangers others or shows a willful disregard for traffic laws and safety. A common way drivers are charged with reckless driving is when they exceed the speed limit by a significant margin, particularly if they are driving at 85 mph or more.

The state’s law states that driving 20 mph or more over the posted speed limit is considered reckless driving. So, if you’re traveling at reckless driving virginia 85 mph in a 55 mph zone, you could face a reckless driving charge, even if you weren’t involved in any dangerous behavior.

The Consequences of Reckless Driving at 85 MPH in Virginia

Going 85 mph in Virginia can have serious legal and financial consequences. The penalties can include:

1. Fines

• A conviction for reckless driving can lead to fines of up to $2,500. The exact fine will depend on the circumstances of your case.

2. Jail Time

• Reckless driving in Virginia is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor, meaning you could face up to 12 months in jail. While jail time is not guaranteed for all reckless driving cases, it’s possible depending on factors like your driving history and whether anyone was harmed.

3. License Suspension

• A conviction for reckless driving may result in the suspension of your driver’s license for up to six months. This suspension can significantly impact your ability to work or take care of personal responsibilities.

4. Increased Insurance Rates

• Insurance companies consider reckless driving as a high-risk behavior, which can lead to significantly higher insurance premiums. The surcharge can last for several years.

5. Criminal Record

• A reckless driving conviction will appear on your criminal record, which may affect employment prospects and your reputation. It could also influence future legal matters, such as background checks for housing or loans.

How Can You Defend Against a Reckless Driving Charge for 85 MPH?

If you’ve been ticketed for driving 85 mph in Virginia, there are a few defense strategies that may help reduce or eliminate the charges:

1. Challenging the Speed Measurement

• Speeding tickets in Virginia are typically based on radar or laser speed guns. A lawyer may be able to challenge the accuracy of these devices, especially if they were improperly calibrated or used incorrectly.

2. Lack of Sufficient Evidence

• If there is no clear evidence to prove that you were driving recklessly, such as lack of radar readings or no witness testimony, the charge may be reduced or dismissed.

3. Traffic Conditions

• If you were speeding due to road conditions, like trying to keep up with the flow of traffic, it might be possible to argue that your actions were reasonable under the circumstances.

4. Mistaken Identity

• In some cases, the police officer may have mistaken your vehicle for another one, especially on busy highways. If you can show that the ticket was issued in error, your charges may be dropped.

5. Completion of Driver Improvement Program

• In some situations, completing a driver improvement program or traffic school can help mitigate the consequences and may even lead to a reduction in penalties for reckless driving virginia 85 mph.

What Should You Do If You Get a Reckless Driving Ticket for 85 MPH?

If you’re caught driving 85 mph in Virginia, it’s important to take immediate action:

1. Contact a Traffic Lawyer: Hire an experienced traffic attorney who can guide you through the legal process, explore potential defenses, and represent you in court.

2. Prepare Your Case: Gather any evidence that may support your defense, such as witness statements, dashcam footage, or photographic evidence.

3. Attend Court: You must appear in court to face the charge. A lawyer can help ensure you present your case in the best possible light.

Conclusion

A reckless driving virginia 85 mph is a serious offense with significant consequences. Fines, jail time, license suspension, and increased insurance rates can all follow a conviction. If you’re facing this charge, consulting with an experienced traffic attorney is crucial. With the right legal representation, you can explore your options and potentially reduce the penalties or have the charges dismissed entirely. Always remember to drive responsibly to avoid endangering yourself or others on the road.