Most traffic violations in Virginia lead to tickets. Police officers issue a citation accusing a driver of a specific traffic infraction. The driver can fight the ticket or pay the fine depending on their circumstances.
Some traffic violations are significant enough that they result in criminal charges rather than a basic ticket. Drivers accused of drunk driving may end up going to criminal court. The same is true of those accused of reckless driving. Police officers can arrest someone during a traffic stop when they allege that a motorist’s conduct was egregiously unsafe.
What types of driving behavior might result in reckless driving allegations in Virginia?
Excessive speeding
Many people regularly violate speed ordinances by exceeding the posted speed limit. Most drivers limit themselves to a few miles per hour over the posted limit. However, some people drive exceptionally fast, especially when there is minimal traffic. In scenarios where drivers travel at speeds well over the posted limit, police officers might arrest them for reckless driving instead of issuing a basic speeding ticket.
Going the wrong way on a road
Some drivers make legitimate mistakes when planning their routes and may turn the wrong way onto a one-way street. Others think that they can travel the wrong way on a highway ramp or another one-way road due to a lack of traffic. Such decisions can potentially lead to head-on collisions and other tragic scenarios. Police officers who encounter someone going the wrong way on the street may arrest that individual for reckless driving.
Racing on public roads
Street racing or drag racing has been popular for as long as motor vehicles have been commonplace. It is unsafe and illegal to conduct vehicle races on public roads. Those caught trying to race may face reckless driving charges because they put their momentary entertainment ahead of public safety.
Depending on the circumstances leading to reckless driving charges, there might be several ways for people to defend against those allegations or reduce the penalties imposed by the courts. Drivers who can provide a reasonable explanation for their actions and those with proper legal support can sometimes avoid the financial and licensing penalties associated with reckless driving convictions.