If an officer recently pulled you over for reckless driving, you are likely aware of how serious of a charge this is. Reckless driving can be classified as a misdemeanor or even a felony, and stay on your criminal record for the rest of your life. If you are unsure of what to do after this reckless driving charge, you are not alone. However, your reckless driving charge is not a conviction and you do not have to give up hope. To learn possible ways to beat this charge, read below for 5 steps you should take following your reckless driving ticket.
- Gather Your Thoughts. This may seem like it is a waste of time, but you can forget some of the most important details because of a rush of adrenaline or your fear and anxiety. Before you consider other ways of fighting this charge, take a step back and consider the details of the traffic stop and the moments leading up to the stop. This can be incredibly helpful if you decide to retain an attorney. They will ask you detailed questions of the event. As soon as you can after the officer has given you a ticket, document the statement you made to the officer, the time you were pulled over and where you were going, the location of your vehicle when you first saw the officer flagging you down, how many cars were on the road, the weather conditions, time of day, and even the road signs near you. These can be important.
- Get a Copy Of Your Driving Record As Soon As Possible. You should know your driving record in and out. Many states work by a point system, and, depending on your driving history, this can do a great deal to show that you have maintained an excellent driving history. Bring this with you when you speak with your attorney. This is also a document that you should bring to court.
- Look At Driving Improvement Courses. Many judges and police officers will let you off with less than a reckless driving conviction if you enroll in, and successfully complete, a reckless driving improvement course. This can go a long way in showing that you are working hard to be a better and more responsible driver.
- Look Into Your Vehicle Speed Calibration. Although this is not always the most successful defense, if you believe you were truly not at fault regarding your speed and you have an older car with significant mileage, an automotive technician can see if your calibrator is off and you can bring this document to a judge.
- Retain an Attorney. Unlike normal traffic violations where you can pay them off and move on with a blip on your driving record, a reckless conviction will stay on your criminal record. The best line of defense is obtaining the help of an reckless driving lawyer Abingdon, VA trusts to craft you the best possible defense.
Thank you to our friends and contributors at The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt for their insight into reckless driving and steps to take after being charged.