Is a Speeding Ticket a Big Deal in Virginia?

Twenty years ago, the answer to this question was a resounding “no.” The base fine was roughly the same. But add-ons, like court costs, were low, the points weren’t as bad, and courts handed out Driver Improvement Program dismissals like candy on Halloween.

Today, a speeding ticket in Virginia is a big deal. Many judges believe a speeding ticket is a “tip of the iceberg” ticket that indicates a more dangerous problem, like racing or reckless driving. As a result, court costs and other add-ons have skyrocketed, the demerit point system is different, and DIP dismissals are only available in rare cases.

Since a speeding ticket is such a big deal in Virginia, a Leesburg criminal defense lawyer is a vital partner in these matters. Without legal representation, the direct and collateral consequences of a speeding ticket could be unbearably high.

Fines and Court Costs Add Up

The cost of a speeding ticket in Virginia depends on how fast you were going over the limit. Typically, drivers can expect to pay a base fine plus court fees, which can quickly add up.

For example, you may be charged a set amount per mile per hour over the speed limit. In some cases, the total cost can reach hundreds of dollars, particularly if you were driving significantly above the posted speed.

A Leesburg criminal defense lawyer often takes advantage of this structure and convinces prosecutors to reduce the charges, thus lowering fines.

Points on Your Driving Record

Virginia still uses a demerit point system to track traffic violations. A standard speeding ticket usually results in 3 to 6 points on your driving record, depending on the severity of the offense.

These points can stay on your record for up to two years, although the conviction itself may remain longer. Accumulating too many points can lead to license suspension or mandatory driving improvement programs.

Impact on Insurance Rates

One of the most overlooked consequences of a speeding ticket is the effect on your auto insurance. Insurance companies, which often view speeding violations as a sign of risky behavior, inevitably hike insurance premiums in these cases. Even a single ticket can increase your rates for several years, making the long-term cost much higher than the initial fine.

The aforementioned reduced charges not only reduce direct fines. They also lessen the effect on insurance rates. From the insurance company’s viewpoint, almost anyone can speed four or five mph over the limit, but eight or ten mph over the limit is borderline reckless.

Reckless Driving: A Serious Offense

Speaking of reckless driving, in Virginia, excessive speeding can escalate into reckless driving, which is a criminal offense and not an ordinary traffic infraction. If you are caught driving 20mph or more over the speed limit, or over 85mph regardless of the speed limit, you could be charged with reckless driving. This Class 1 misdemeanor can result in severe penalties, including hefty fines, license suspension, and even jail time.

Should You Fight a Speeding Ticket?

Depending on your situation, it may be worth contesting a speeding ticket in Virginia. Factors such as the accuracy of the speed measurement, road conditions, and your driving history can all play a role in your defense. A Leesburg criminal defense lawyer explains your options and often reduces or dismisses the charges.

Reach Out to a Hard-Working Loudoun County Lawyer

A speeding ticket is a big deal in Virginia. For a confidential consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney in Leesburg, contact Simms Showers, LLP, Attorneys at Law. Convenient payment plans are available.

Source:

law.lis.virginia.gov/vacodefull/title46.2/chapter8/article7/