Virginia Reckless Driving Law, Penalties & Legal Defense

Best Law Firm 2025 Riley & Wells Attorneys-at-LawReckless driving in Virginia is a criminal offense that can carry serious consequences. Many different driving behaviors can lead to a reckless driving charge, including some that surprise drivers who assume they are facing only a traffic ticket. A conviction may result in jail, fines, license consequences, higher insurance costs, and a lasting record. Riley & Wells Attorneys-At-Law helps drivers understand the Virginia reckless driving law, potential penalties, and available defenses.

What Is Reckless Driving in Virginia?

What Is Reckless Driving in Virginia?Reckless driving is commonly defined as the act of driving a motor vehicle in a dangerous manner. The reckless driving laws in Virginia are harsh. There are over 15 different Virginia Reckless Driving Laws. These various reckless driving laws criminalize the following driving behaviors: driving in a manner that endangers life, limb or property; failure to maintain proper control or faulty brakes; dangerous passing; obstructed view; improper signaling; excessive speed; passing a stopped school bus; failure to yield & racing to name a few. Reckless driving in Virginia can result in severe legal consequences.

Common Reckless Driving Charges in Virginia

Reckless Driving By Speed (Va. Code 46.2-862)

A person is guilty of reckless driving in Virginia if they drive a motor vehicle on a highway in the Commonwealth (i) at a speed of 20 miles per hour or more above the posted speed limit or (ii) in excess of 85 miles per hour regardless of the applicable maximum speed limit.

Virginia police officers issue this charge if they gather the necessary speed evidence. This evidence is commonly gathered with the use of RADAR, LIDAR or the PACE method. VASCAR and Aircraft Enforcement are other legal methods but rarely used.

This charge catches most drivers by surprise when they learn that their speeding ticket is actually a criminal offense.

Reckless Driving Causing an Accident (Va. Code 46.2-852)

Irrespective of the maximum speeds permitted by the Virginia reckless driving law, any person who drives a vehicle on any highway recklessly or at a speed or in a manner to endanger the life, limb, or property of any person shall be guilty of reckless driving in Virginia.

Virginia police officers most frequently issue this charge after investigating a traffic crash. Most drivers are surprised to learn that their car accident is now actually a criminal case.

Reckless Driving Vehicle Not Under Control (Va. Code 46.2-853)

A person shall be guilty of reckless driving who drives a vehicle which is not under proper control or which has inadequate or improperly adjusted brakes on any highway in the Commonwealth.

Reckless Driving Fail to Move Over For Stationary Emergency Vehicle (Va. Code 46.2-861.1)

Virginia Code § 46.2-861.1 requires drivers to use caution when approaching a stopped emergency vehicle with flashing lights on the side of the road. When it is reasonable and safe to do so, the driver should change into a lane that is not next to the stopped vehicle. If a lane change is not safe, the driver must slow down and pass with due caution. Many drivers do not realize that violating this rule can, in some situations, result in a reckless driving charge rather than a simple traffic ticket.

Reckless Driving Passing a School Bus (Va. Code 46.2-859)

Virginia Code § 46.2-859 makes it reckless driving to pass a properly stopped school bus that is loading or unloading passengers while using the required warning devices. Many drivers charged with this offense did not intend to violate the law, but lack of intent usually does not prevent the charge. Important details may include whether the bus was properly marked, whether its warning devices were activated, and whether the road was divided in a way that created an exception.

Virginia Reckless Driving Penalties

It is important to understand the potential penalties for a Virginia reckless driving conviction. Reckless driving in Virginia is a criminal offense not a minor traffic infraction. The outcome of your reckless driving case in Virginia can affect your freedom, employment, driving privileges, automobile insurance policy, security clearances, professional licenses, and more. To understand what a conviction can actually cost you (jail risk, fines, license suspension, and long-term consequences), see our guide to Virginia reckless driving penalties.

Virginia's Classification of Traffic & Criminal Offenses And Reckless Driving

  1. Traffic Infraction – A violation of public order and not deemed to be criminal in nature. Charges such as speeding and running a stop sign are traffic infractions. Penalties for a conviction include an entry on the driving record, a fine & moving violation demerit points (if applicable). Reckless driving is not a traffic infraction. Many drivers get this wrong because they were issued a traffic ticket or Virginia Uniform Summons for their reckless driving charge.
  2. Misdemeanor – A criminal offense that carries less serious penalties than a felony. Punishments for conviction of a misdemeanor are: (a) For Class 1 misdemeanors, confinement in jail for not more than twelve months and a fine of not more than $2,500, either or both. (b) For Class 2 misdemeanors, confinement in jail for not more than six months and a fine of not more than $1,000, either or both. (c) For Class 3 misdemeanors, a fine of not more than $500. (d) For Class 4 misdemeanors, a fine of not more than $250. Most Virginia reckless driving charges are class 1 criminal misdemeanors. 
  3. Felony – A criminal offense where the punishment for a conviction carries a term of imprisonment of not less than one year. Reckless driving in Virginia rarely rises to the level of being a felony offense.

Reckless driving in Virginia is Usually a Class 1 Misdemeanor Criminal Offense

  • Fine: Up to $2,500, or a minimum of $250 if the driver was using a handheld device
  • Jail time: Up to 12 months 
  • Maximum 6 months suspension of driving privileges (2 years for racing)
  • 6 negative DMV demerit points (points may vary based on licensing state)
  • Permanent record (Convictions in Virginia cannot be expunged)

Am I Going to Jail if Convicted of Reckless Driving in Virginia?

Am I Going to Jail if Convicted of Reckless Driving in Virginia?The jail penalty is viewed by many as the most severe form of punishment. The Judge can impose this penalty if convicted of reckless driving in Virginia. A jail sentence is not automatic if convicted of reckless driving, but it becomes more likely in aggravated cases. Cases involving personal injury or death, driving 30+ miles per hour over the speed limit or 90+ mph are considered aggravating factors for most judges and in these cases you may be facing an active jail sentence. This penalty will vary depending on the Judge presiding over your case, the evidence, and your defenses to name a few factors.

3 Instances Where Reckless Driving in Virginia Can Be a Felony

  1. The accused is driving with a suspended or revoked license due to a moving violation, and someone dies as a result of their reckless driving. Va. Code §46.2-868
  2. The accused was racing, and someone not involved in the race was seriously injured. Va. code §46.2-865.1
  3. The accused was racing, and someone was killed because of the race. This is regardless of whether the person who died was or wasn’t involved in the race. Va. code §46.2-865.1

Fines and Court Costs for Reckless Driving in Virginia

Virginia Reckless Driving FinesThe Judge imposes a fine and court cost if convicted of reckless driving in Virginia. The reckless driving law in Virginia allows for a maximum fine of $2,500, but a maximum fine is rare in most cases. The fine for a Virginia reckless driving conviction will vary based on the evidence in the case and the Judge presiding over the case. As a general rule, higher fines are often imposed in aggravated cases, in instances where the defendant has a negative driving history and/or cases involving injury. Court costs vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, but are often around the $100 range.

Other Potential Consequences of a Virginia Reckless Driving Conviction

A Virginia reckless driving conviction can affect more than fines, points, or the possibility of jail. Depending on your profession, background, and future plans, a conviction may create collateral consequences that extend beyond traffic court. For a broader overview of direct sentencing exposure, fines, license consequences, and related issues, review our Virginia reckless driving penalties page. Expand the sections below to review some of the additional issues that may matter in your case.

Explore Other Potential Consequences of a Reckless Driving Conviction
Insurance Consequences

A reckless driving conviction in Virginia may lead to higher auto insurance premiums. Because reckless driving is a criminal traffic offense rather than an ordinary traffic infraction, insurers may view the conviction as a sign of increased driving risk. The financial impact can vary depending on your carrier, driving history, age, and prior claims, but increased premiums are a common concern after conviction.

Employment Consequences

A reckless driving conviction may affect current or future employment, especially for drivers whose work depends on a clean driving record or a favorable background check. Commercial drivers, employees who operate company vehicles, and applicants for jobs involving transportation, delivery, sales, or field work may face additional scrutiny after a conviction appears on a record.

Security Clearance Concerns

For some professionals, a reckless driving conviction may raise concerns during a security clearance review or a background investigation. Although the seriousness of the issue depends on the surrounding facts, any criminal conviction can become relevant where judgment, reliability, or candor are evaluated as part of employment or clearance-related screening.

Professional Licensing Issues

Certain licensed professionals may need to consider whether a reckless driving conviction could trigger disclosure obligations or create licensing concerns. Nurses, teachers, government employees, military personnel, and other licensed or regulated professionals may want to review whether reporting rules, renewal questions, or disciplinary standards could apply.

Travel, Housing, and Background Check Issues

A reckless driving conviction can also create practical problems outside of work. Depending on the situation, a criminal traffic conviction may affect rental applications, housing screenings, volunteer opportunities, or other background-check-based decisions. For some individuals, international travel or future immigration-related questions may also be a concern.

Long-Term Record Impact

In Virginia, reckless driving is generally prosecuted as a Class 1 misdemeanor. A conviction can remain part of your criminal and driving history and may matter later if you face another charge, apply for certain jobs, or undergo a background review. That is one reason many drivers want to explore dismissal, reduction, or other options that may limit the long-term effect of the case.

Trusted Professionals Can Help Your Understand Your Virginia Reckless Driving Charge

What Happens in a Virginia Reckless Driving Case?

A Virginia reckless driving case is a criminal prosecution, not a routine ticket. It involves formal court procedures, sworn testimony, and the possibility of jail, a driver’s license suspension, and a permanent criminal record. Most reckless driving charges are handled in the Virginia General District Court of the county or city of the incident. The process typically unfolds in the following stages.

1. The traffic stop or accident investigation and charge

A law-enforcement officer issues a Virginia Uniform Summons (or makes an arrest in some cases) alleging reckless driving. The ticket summons' the accused to appear in a specific Virginia General District Court on a particular date and time and lists the specific statute that alleges the reckless driving violation. There is other relevant information contained in the Virginia Uniform Summons to include the identifying information of the accused, the date and location of the offense, and the name and agency of the charging police officer.

2. After the Traffic Stop and Before Trial

The accused may:

  • Hire a reckless driving defense attorney
  • Request a continuance (sometimes to complete mitigation steps and prepare defenses)

Complete mitigation such as:

  • Speedometer calibration
  • Driver-improvement course
  • Community service
  • Vehicle repairs (if equipment-related)

A Virginia reckless driving attorney can also seek the officer’s notes, radar/lidar calibration records, and body-cam/dash-cam evidence through the discovery process.

3. Trial

The case is called. The police officer who issued the reckless driving ticket testifies about the stop and alleged conduct. In accident cases, there may likely be other witnesses who will be called to testify on behalf of the Commonwealth. The Commonwealth Attorney must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

The defense may:

  • Cross-examine the officer
  • Challenge the stop, speed measurement, or statutory elements
  • Present mitigation or legal defenses

The attorneys then present their arguments to the Judge.

The judge after hearing any motions, all the evidence and arguments then issues a ruling that may either:

  • Dismiss the reckless driving charge
  • Reduce the reckless driving charge to a lesser offense and proceed to sentencing
  • Find the defendant motorist guilty of reckless driving and proceed to sentencing

There are no jury trials in a Virginia General District Court. Convictions can be appealed within 10 days of a final order for a new trial in the jurisdiction's Circuit Court.

4. Sentencing (if convicted of reckless driving or a lesser offense

Possible outcomes include any combination of:

  • Jail (more common at very high speeds, accidents, or repeat offenses)
  • Fines and court costs
  • Driver's license suspension or restricted license
  • Probation conditions
  • Mandatory driver-improvement programs

The judge considers the arguments the lawyers present and considers the following:

  • Speed or conduct alleged
  • Driving history
  • Whether there was an accident, injury, or property damage
  • Mitigation evidence

Defenses to Reckless Driving in Virginia

Defenses to Reckless Driving in VirginiaThe best way to defend a Virginia reckless driving ticket is to build a solid defense based on the specific circumstances surrounding your case. The Commonwealth has to prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the alleged violation. Each piece of the offense can be used as a possible defense if the Commonwealth does not present the necessary evidence. Reckless driving defenses depend on the specific statute charged and the specific facts. Below are the primary categories of defenses used in Virginia courts.

1. Speed Related Defenses (Va. Code § 46.2-862)

A. Improper or Unreliable Speed Measurement

  • Radar/lidar not properly calibrated or certified
  • Officer not properly trained or certified
  • Pacing errors (distance, traffic interference, improper following interval)
  • Improper testing of equipment before/after the stop
  • Wrong vehicle targeted (shadowing, cosine error, traffic congestion)

B. Speed Not Proven Beyond a Reasonable Doubt

  • Inconsistent officer testimony
  • Missing calibration certificates
  • Incomplete or defective summons

C. Statutory Threshold Not Met

  • Less than 20 mph over the limit
  • Less than 85 mph
  • Prosecutor must prove the exact speed and the posted limit

2. General Reckless Driving Defenses (Va. Code § 46.2-852)

(Driving in a manner so as to endanger life, limb, or property)

A. Conduct Did Not Rise to “Reckless”

  • Mere negligence is not enough
  • Must show actual endangerment, not just poor driving
  • No evidence of risk to people or property

B. Road, Weather, and Traffic Conditions

  • Clear roads, low traffic, daylight, dry pavement
  • Undermines claim that conduct endangered others

C. Officer’s Subjective Opinion Challenged

  • Courts often scrutinize conclusory statements like “reckless”
  • Defense focuses on objective facts, not labels

3. Mechanical or Vehicle-Related Defenses

  • Speedometer inaccuracy
  • Mechanical malfunction (stuck throttle, brake failure, transmission issue)
  • Tire or suspension failure
  • Must often be supported by repair records

4. Necessity / Emergency Defenses

  • Medical emergency (driver or passenger)
  • Immediate danger requiring evasive action
  • Transport to hospital
  • Must show conduct was reasonable under the circumstances

5. Identification & Stop Issues

  • Wrong driver identified
  • Officer lost visual contact
  • Stop based on assumption rather than observation
  • Insufficient proof that the accused was the operator

6. Procedural and Evidentiary Defenses

  • Defective summons
  • Improper service
  • Missing or inadmissible certificates of calibration
  • Officer fails to appear
  • Violation of confrontation rights
  • Inadmissible hearsay regarding speed or conditions

7. Mitigation-Based Defenses (Often Used to Reduce or Dismiss)

Even when the speed or conduct is not seriously disputable, cases are often defended by reducing the charge through:

  • Good driving record
  • Completion of driver improvement clinic
  • Speedometer calibration
  • Community service
  • Negotiated amendment to improper driving (Va. Code § 46.2-869) or a traffic infraction

8. Location-Specific Issues

Certain courts and corridors (e.g., I-95, I-64, I-81, I-66) see high volumes of reckless cases. Defenses often focus on:

  • High-speed flow of traffic
  • Downhill radar distortion
  • Construction-zone signage defects
  • Improperly posted speed limits

A Virginia Reckless Driving Police Encounter Can Be Stressful

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Reckless driving in Virginia is serious. Retain the best lawyer.
Virginia Reckless Driving Lawyers For Your Best Defense

Should You Hire a Reckless Driving Lawyer?

Do I Need a Lawyer for my Virginia Reckless Driving Case?If you have been accused of reckless driving in Virginia, then your case will eventually be set for trial before a Virginia Court. Trials are adversarial in nature. This involves a structured dispute between the prosecution and the defense. The adversarial system is designed to ensure a fair trial according to the rules of law and evidence by allowing each party to present their case and to challenge the other’s evidence and arguments. The judge evaluates the evidence and arguments, and reaches a verdict. Are you prepared do battle with the prosecuting attorney and the Judge while presenting the best defense? 

An experienced Virginia reckless driving attorney can assist with the following:

Our dedicated reckless driving attorneys will thoroughly examine the evidence and build a strong defense to challenge the charges against you. We will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and to secure the best result possible, which sometimes can be a dismissal. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee an outcome.

In many cases, the evidence is sufficient for a reckless driving guilty verdict but we can nevertheless convince the Judge to reduce the charges to a lesser offense. Our goal is to always ensure that we keep any penalties to a minimum.

In some cases, the evidence is sufficient to prove a reckless driving violation but we are able to present mitigating factors to persuade the Judge to not impose an active term of incarceration. This may result in either a no jail sentence or a suspended jail sentence reckless driving conviction. Protecting our client’s freedom is always a top priority.

Unfortunately, there are some cases that are so aggravated that there are no defenses and no mitigating factors sufficient to avoid a jail sentence. In those cases, convincing the Judge to allow a late report date, allow a weekend sentence, a work release sentence or a school release sentence may be the next best thing. These sentence options can be very important for personal and professional affairs.

Out-of-State Drivers Facing Reckless Driving Charges in Virginia

Out-of-State Drivers Facing Reckless Driving Charges in VirginiaAccording to a national study, there area a significant number of Virginia reckless driving tickets being issued to out-of-state drivers. Out-of-state drivers need to understand that reckless driving in Virginia can lead to severe consequences, including a criminal conviction. Excessive speeding often results in a reckless driving charge, which is taken very seriously. This typically requires the driver to return to Virginia for a court appearance. A conviction will be reported to the home state. Convictions can lead to long-term repercussions such as a criminal record and possible incarceration. If you live outside Virginia, your case can involve travel concerns, court-appearance issues, and home-state DMV consequences—start here: Virginia reckless driving for out-of-state drivers.

Virginia Reckless Driving Convictions Are Communicated To Your Home State

A reckless driving conviction is reported to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (“DMV”) by the Court. The DMV dockets the reckless driving conviction to the motorist’s Virginia driving history and assesses 6 negative demerit points. The conviction information is then forwarded to the home state for those licensed to drive in other states. The impact on either your driving record or your driver’s license will depend on the law of your home state.

Failing to appear For Out-of-State Drivers Can Result in a Bench Warrant and Additional Fines

A bench warrant can be issued for an out-of-state driver who fails to appear in court for a reckless driving allegation. An experienced Virginia reckless driving attorney can provide the necessary critical legal advice in such cases and potentially motion the Court to have the out-of-state driver’s court appearance waived, in addition to challenging the evidence to have the charges dismissed or reduced. Top rated representation is essential to navigating the complexities of the Virginia reckless driving law and to mitigate the impact of a reckless driving charge. Contact us today to discuss your case and protect your rights.

Virginia Reckless Driving FAQs

Understanding the reckless driving law, the legal process and your rights are essential. Here are some common questions and answers:

You have been summoned to appear in court by a law enforcement if you have been charged with reckless driving. Reckless driving in Virginia is a criminal offense and is not pre-payable. That means you must either appear in court or retain a reckless driving lawyer that can appear in court for you. 

No. Convictions are permanent. An absolute pardon is the only remedy available in Virginia to remove the record of a conviction. 

Speeding and reckless driving are different offenses. Reckless driving criminalizes excessive speed. So if you are driving over 85 mph or 20+mph above the posted speed limit, then you are in violation of the reckless driving law.

Out-of-state drivers face the same penalties as Virginia drivers and a conviction will be reported to your home state.

An experienced lawyer will properly evaluate your case, prepare the best defenses, represent you in court, and work to eliminate or reduce the penalties you are facing.

The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) maintains the records of all driving offenses in the Commonwealth. A reckless driving conviction will stay on your Virginia DMV driving record for 11 years. This also applies to motorists licensed to drive in other states.

Attorney fees vary based on the nature of the charge and the circumstances of the case. The lawyer that consults with you will explain the legal fee during the initial consultation. A flat fixed fee is the most common form of fee agreement for a reckless driving case.

Aggressive driving is different from reckless driving. Aggressive driving pursuant to Va. Code § 46.2-868.1 is the violation of a specific traffic offense where such offense creates either a hazard to another person or the offense was intended to “harass, intimidate, injure or obstruct” another person. Aggressive driving is normally a Class 2 misdemeanor unless done with the intent to injure another person. In those cases, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor.

An experienced reckless driving defense attorney can evaluate your case, discuss restricted driving privilege options and explain how to make the best arguments to the Judge for such a motion to be granted. The granting of restricted driving privileges is at the Judge’s discretion.

Improper driving is a lesser offense of reckless driving in Virginia pursuant to Va. Code § 46.2-869. Improper driving is a minor traffic infraction not a criminal offense. In cases where the degree of culpability is slight, the Judge may find the defendant motorist not guilty of reckless driving but guilty of improper driving.

The police officer who issues a Virginia Uniform Summons for reckless driving and sets the matter for arraignment or trial uses a date and time previously provided by the courts. Police officer’s are not required to appear in court for an arraignment. The Judge formally informs the defendant motorist of the charge and the right to counsel. At trial, the police officer must be present and is required to testify in order for the prosecution to be able to prove its case.

If the police officer is not present at trial then the matter can only be continued if there is evidence of good cause. The prosecution can make this motion or the Court can make it on its own motion. Examples of good cause could be illness, death of a family member, or a public safety emergency. Getting a reckless driving case in Virginia dismissed because the police officer is not present and there is a lack of good cause to continue is rare.

Reckless driving in Virginia is a 6 demerit point offense. The Virginia DMV will assess your driving record 6 demerit points once the abstract of your conviction is received from the Court. Demerit points will also be assigned to your record for traffic convictions incurred in other states. For drivers licensed to drive in other states, the Virginia DMV will create a driver history -if one does not already exist- and assess 6 demerit points. Virginia reckless driving convictions stay on the DMV driving record for 11 years.

Driving aggressively and getting caught can definitely make your automobile insurance rates go up, but how much they’ll increase can depend on factors like where you live and any other convictions that are on your driving record. A reckless driving conviction is generally considered a “major violation” by insurance companies, along with convictions such as drunk driving, racing, and hit and run. It’s very possible that your insurer will not renew your auto insurance policy at renewal time after a reckless driving conviction.

According to a study conducted by Forbes.com and information for Quadrant Information Services as of April 2022, the average automobile insurance rate increase for someone with a reckless driving conviction varies by company, but the average rate increase across all companies analyzed was 61%.

Company Good Driver Average annual rate Average rate after Conviction Average rate increase after Conviction
USAA
$1,141
$1,679
47%
Erie
$1,499
$1,782
19%
State Farm
$1,486
$1,939
31%
Nationwide
$1,154
$2,274
97%
Travelers
$1,533
$2,275
48%
Geico
$1,277
$2,574
101%
Progressive
$1,863
$2,635
41%
American Family
$1,711
$2,683
57%
Auto-Owners
$1,632
$3,115
91%
Allstate
$2,206
$3,125
42%
Farmers
$2,277
$3,523
55%
Shelter
$2,689
$4,128
53%
State Auto
$1,960
$4,210
115%
Average
$1,725
$2,765
61%

Average % automobile insurance increase by State after a reckless driving conviction

State Average % rate increase
Rhode Island
78%
Nebraska
61%
Nevada
49%
New Hampshire
109%
New Jersey
75%
New Mexico
50%
New York
39%
North Carolina
83%
North Dakota
62%
Ohio
68%
Oklahoma
42%
Oregon
66%
Pennsylvania
66%
Montana
47%
South Carolina
47%
South Dakota
62%
Tennessee
83%
Texas
51%
Utah
56%
Vermont
100%
Virginia
80%
Washington
61%
West Virginia
77%
Wisconsin
73%
Wyoming
54%
Indiana
86%
Alaska
38%
Arizona
48%
Arkansas
48%
California
147%
Colorado
54%
Connecticut
90%
Delaware
56%
Florida
37%
Georgia
66%
Hawaii
150%
Idaho
56%
Illinois
80%
Alabama
48%
Iowa
98%
Kansas
49%
Kentucky
73%
Louisiana
41%
Maine
66%
Maryland
73%
Massachusetts
83%
Michigan
163%
Minnesota
66%
Mississippi
50%
Missouri
40%

Virginia law gives you at least 90 days to pay anything you owe to the court. If you need additional time, you can ask the court for a longer payment deadline. It is the discretion of the court in terms of granting additional time beyond 90 days for full payment to the court.

Reckless driving in Virginia is normally classified as a class 1 misdemeanor criminal offense unless one of the three felony exceptions is applicable. In Virginia, convictions are permanent and cannot be expunged. Criminal record sealing will be an available remedy in July 2026. Otherwise, a pardon would be the only remedy, which is extremely rare.

Reckless Driving Lawyers Across Virginia

Top Rated Virginia Reckless Driving Lawyer Wins Case
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Experienced Courtroom Representation With A Long Track Record Of Satisfied Client Outcomes

Riley & Wells Attorneys-At-Law has represented more than 30,000 clients before the Virginia courts and has more than 1500+ Reviews with a 4.9 out of 5-star rating. Our attorneys defend reckless driving charges throughout the Virginia. We ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process. Our reckless driving attorneys are experienced in negotiating with prosecutors and presenting winning arguments before judges. We actively seek to have your charges dismissed or reduced.

Experience Matters - We Will Explain Your Best Options And Possible Outcomes

We begin with a thorough evaluation of your case when you contact our law firm. We review all the details, including the circumstances of your traffic stop, the evidence against you, and any previous offenses. This allows us to identify the best defense strategies and advise you on your options.

Knowledgeable And Effective Defense Strategies Fighting For Your Rights And Freedoms

Our defense strategies are tailored to each client's situation. We may either challenge the sufficiency of the prosecution’s evidence, present evidence of mitigating circumstances, or both. In either case, our goal is to present your case in the best light possible and to secure the best possible outcome for you.

It Is Important That Your Lawyer Clearly Explains Your Options To You

Navigating the legal system can be daunting, especially for those unfamiliar with the Virginia court system. We evaluate your case by listening to you, hearing from you and what happened from your point of view. We represent you in court. In many cases, we can appear in court for you without you having to return for your case. We work to dismiss or reduce the charges that have been filed against you. Our law firm leverages the experience of having successfully represented over 30,000 clients. We have a deep understanding of Virginia's traffic and criminal laws. Our reckless driving attorneys will use our massive courtroom experience to best advocate for you and provide a robust defense.

Call Us For Help If You Have Received A Reckless Driving Summons in Virginia

Our legal team is dedicated to providing the highest level of reckless driving legal representation. We understand that every case is unique and we tailor our approach to meet the specific needs of each client. Our goal is to minimize the impact of a reckless driving charge on your life and to help you move forward. Contact our Virginia reckless driving lawyers if you are facing a reckless driving charge in Virginia. Our team combines legal expertise with a deep understanding of law enforcement procedures to provide the best defense possible. It is often unwise to navigate this complex legal landscape alone. Let us help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Riley & Wells Attorneys-At-Law for Virginia Reckless Driving Defense

Riley & Wells Attorneys-At-Law for Virginia Reckless Driving Defense

***Our attorneys are licensed to practice law in all Virginia Courts***

Virginia Super Lawyers 2025 Riley & Wells Attorneys-At-LawRiley & Wells Attorneys-At-Law is registered to practice law with the Commonwealth of Virginia State Corporation Commission. Our attorneys are licensed to practice law in all Virginia Courts by the Virginia State Bar. We are an “AV Preeminent” rated law firm by Martindale-Hubbell and a “Best Law Firm” according to U.S. News and World Reports for the highest level of professional excellence in legal ability and ethical standards. Martindale-Hubbell and U.S. News and World Reports are distinguished, established organizations that publish reliable information regarding attorneys and law firms. Other lawyer rating organizations such as Virginia Super Lawyers, Legal Elite by Virginia Business Magazine, Avvo.com, and others also routinely recognize our firm for outstanding legal ability and the highest ethical standards.

08/05/2024 | Updated 1/23/2026