Criminal Defense Attorney
Reckless Driving vs. Speeding in Virginia
Understand the difference before it costs you your license.
Not All Speeding Is the Same Under Virginia Law
In most states, speeding is a simple traffic ticket — inconvenient, but not life-changing. In Virginia, however, crossing a certain speed limit can turn a speeding ticket into a criminal charge.
Under Virginia Code §46.2-862, you can be charged with reckless driving if you:
- Drive 20 mph or more over the posted speed limit
- Drive over 85 mph, regardless of the posted limit
That means what starts as a simple mistake — running late, passing a car — can suddenly become a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by jail time, fines, and license suspension.
We Work Late Nights And Early Mornings To Seek The Most Results For Our Clients
(757) 422-0061
⚖️ The Legal Difference: Speeding vs. Reckless Driving
| Offense | Classification | Possible Penalties | Court Appearance Required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speeding (Standard Ticket) | Traffic Infraction | Fine (usually $100–$250) + DMV points | ❌ No |
| Reckless Driving (Criminal Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months in jail, $2,500 fine, 6 DMV points, possible suspension | ✅ Yes |
Even though both involve driving fast, the consequences couldn’t be more different. If you’re charged with reckless driving, you’re not just fighting a ticket — you’re fighting a criminal record.
What This Means for You
A reckless driving conviction in Virginia can impact more than your license:
- 🚫 Higher insurance premiums — sometimes doubling your rate
- ⚠️ Permanent criminal record — visible on background checks
- 💼 Employment risk — especially for jobs that require driving
- 🚔 Possible jail time or suspended license
By contrast, a simple speeding ticket typically results in a fine and points — not a record.
How We Defend These Charges
At Doummar Law, we’ve helped hundreds of drivers in Virginia Beach and across Hampton Roads beat or reduce reckless driving charges.
We analyze every angle:
- Was your radar gun properly calibrated?
- Did the officer have clear line of sight?
- Was the speeding zone properly posted?
Our goal is simple: get your charge reduced to a non-criminal offense — or dismissed entirely.
Real Results from Local Courts
Our Virginia Beach reckless driving attorneys appear daily in General District Court. We know how each judge approaches borderline cases — and how to frame your defense to get the best result possible.
- Improper driving (3 points instead of 6)
- Standard speeding
- Deferred dismissal after driving school
“They fought hard to get my reckless driving dropped to speeding. Saved my job and my record.” — Client Review, Virginia Beach
Quick FAQ: Reckless Driving vs. Speeding
Q: Can reckless driving be reduced to speeding?
✅ Yes, with the right defense and a clean record, many judges allow it.
Q: How can I tell if my ticket is reckless driving?
Check the citation. If it says “Reckless Driving” or lists VA Code §46.2-862, it’s criminal.
Q: Do I have to appear in court?
Usually yes — but we can often appear on your behalf if you live out of state.
Q: Can a reckless driving charge be expunged?
Only if dismissed or found not guilty.