Fighting Traffic Tickets in Virginia for Out-of-State Drivers
Traffic tickets can be a frustrating experience, especially if you are an out-of-state driver. Virginia is known for its strict traffic laws, and navigating them can be challenging. If you find yourself facing a traffic violation in the Old Dominion, it’s important to know your rights and options. Our Virginia criminal defense law firm has successfully helped thousands of individuals reduce or dismiss their traffic ticket violations. Our experienced Virginia Traffic Lawyers are ready to assist you.
Before you plead guilty to a traffic violation in Virginia, call our experienced Virginia traffic lawyers for a FREE legal consultation at 804.285.3888.
Common Traffic Violations in Virginia
Out-of-state drivers often face a variety of traffic violations. Some of the most common traffic offenses in Virginia include:
- Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit is one of the most frequent violations.
- Reckless Driving: Virginia defines reckless driving as driving at speeds over 85 mph or exceeding the speed limit by more than 20 mph.
- Running a Red Light: Failing to stop at traffic signals can lead to hefty fines.
- Failure to Yield: Not yielding to pedestrians, other vehicles, or emergency vehicles can result in penalties.
- Driving Without a Valid License: If you’re pulled over and your license is not valid in Virginia, you could face serious issues.
Major Roads and Freeways Where Out-of-State Drivers Get Tickets
When driving through Virginia, you’ll likely encounter several major roads, highways, and freeways. Understanding where most tickets are issued can help you stay vigilant and reduce your risk of being stopped. Here are some key routes where traffic violations commonly occur:
- Interstate 95 (I-95): Runs along the East Coast and is a major thoroughfare for travelers. Speeding and reckless driving are frequently reported.
- Interstate 64 (I-64): Connecting Richmond to Norfolk and westward, this highway sees a lot of traffic violations, particularly speeding.
- Virginia Route 29: Known for its scenic views, but also as a hotspot for law enforcement looking for speeding violations.
- U.S. Route 1: A heavily traveled route that connects various towns and cities; the speed limit changes can catch out-of-state drivers off guard.
- Blue Ridge Parkway: While known for its stunning scenery, visitors should be careful about obeying speed limits and road signs.
Understanding Traffic Ticket Consequences in Virginia
When you receive a traffic ticket in Virginia, there are several consequences that may affect your driving record, insurance rates, and financial standing. These include:
- Fines: Penalties vary depending on the violation type. For example, speeding fines can range from $6 to $25 per mile over the limit, with reckless driving fines typically costing up to $2,500.
- Points on Your Driving Record: Virginia uses a point system, and accumulating points can lead to increased insurance premiums and potential license suspension. For example:
- Speeding: 3-6 points, depending on severity
- Reckless driving: 6 points
- Running a red light: 3 points
- Impact on Insurance: Accidents and traffic violations may lead to an increase in your insurance premium, sometimes even after just one incident.
Before you plead guilty to a traffic violation in Virginia, call our experienced Virginia traffic lawyers for a FREE legal consultation at 804.285.3888.
How Our Virginia Traffic Lawyers Can Help
Navigating the Virginia legal system as an out-of-state driver can be daunting, but our Virginia Traffic Lawyers are equipped with the knowledge and experience to help you. Here’s how we can assist:
1. Review Your Case
Our lawyers will thoroughly analyze your traffic ticket and any associated evidence. This includes:
- Checking for errors in the ticket.
- Evaluating the circumstances of the stop.
- Reviewing the applicable laws and defenses available to you.
2. Develop a Defense Strategy
Once we have reviewed your case, we will formulate a personalized defense strategy. Some possible defenses may include:
- Lack of sufficient evidence to prove the violation.
- Improper signage or speed limits in the area.
- Medical emergencies that necessitated your driving behavior.
- Faulty speed detection equipment.
3. Represent You in Court
If necessary, our experienced attorneys will represent you in court. We will:
- Prepare and file necessary legal documents.
- Present your case effectively.
- Negotiate on your behalf to potentially reduce fines or penalties.
4. Explore Options for Traffic School
In certain cases, attending a driving improvement or traffic school might be an option. Completing an approved traffic school can sometimes lead to:
- Reduction or dismissal of points.
- Mitigation of fines.
- Positive impact on your driving record.
5. Handle Communication with DMV
We can assist with any DMV-related issues that may arise after receiving a ticket. This includes:
- Helping you understand the implications of your traffic ticket on your driving privileges.
- Filing appeals if necessary.
What to Do After Receiving a Traffic Ticket in Virginia
If you find yourself with a traffic ticket while driving in Virginia, follow these essential steps:
- Stay Calm and Compliant: Pull over safely and follow officer instructions. Avoid discussions about your ticket.
- Gather Evidence: Take notes about the incident, including location, time, and any witnesses. Also, photograph any relevant road signs or conditions.
- Consult a Virginia Traffic Lawyer: Contact our law firm promptly to discuss your case and explore your options.
- Pay Attention to Deadlines: Traffic tickets often come with specific responses needed within a set timeframe. Make sure to meet all deadlines to avoid additional penalties.
- Attend Court Hearings: If you contest the ticket, ensure you attend the scheduled hearings. Missing court can result in additional fines or a default judgment against you.
Resources for Drivers in Virginia
For reliable information regarding traffic laws and regulations, the following organizations may be helpful:
- Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV): Offers comprehensive information regarding traffic laws, driving records, and ticket payments. Virginia DMV
- Virginia State Police: Provides insights into rules of the road and traffic safety. Virginia State Police
- Local Court Systems: Contact your local traffic court for specifics about your case, including hearing schedules and payment options.
Contact David Long for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one are facing reckless driving charges in Virginia, don’t face it alone. The consequences of a conviction are severe and can affect many aspects of your life. We are here to help you fight these charges and work towards a favorable resolution.
Reach out to us today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case and discuss your options. Let us put our knowledge and experience to work for you.
Before you plead guilty to a traffic violation in Virginia, call our experienced Virginia traffic lawyers for a FREE legal consultation at 804.285.3888.
Out-of-State Driver Lawyer Reviews
Getting a ticket in Virginia when you live in another state can be a major hassle. We specialize in representing out-of-state drivers, often handling the entire case without you ever needing to return for a court date. Read reviews from clients across the country whom we have successfully helped resolve their Virginia traffic matters.
Client Experiences as Out-of-State Drivers
My first time ever being in any trouble at all, I live out of state and David was patient and very knowledgeable. He did everything he could to make sure I got the best outcome possible.
I used David Long as my attorney due to being charged with reckless driving in VA. I’m a out of state driver so was not aware how serious this charge was until I looked it up. David explained and told me a list of things needed to have a chance at a reduce charge. He appeared in court for me and was able to get it reduced to just paying a fine plus court fees.
David is incredible! I submitted an online inquiry about his services to handle a super speeder ticket I received in Virginia… Since I live out of state, he assured me that he would represent me in court. After my court date, he immediately emailed me with the verdict, and I was thrilled with the outcome.
Top notch firm,made everything a breeze even with me moving out of state.Highly recommend!!
Sometimes I worry about online services when I don’t know the person on the other end. Attorney David A. C. Long put my mind at ease! He was very responsive and made it so easy to conduct business as I am an out of state consumer! He handled my daughter’s situation with care, accuracy, and great satisfaction!
Speeding – Highway 60mph going 71mph (10-15mph over) Mr. Long was able to get it reduced to a non-moving violation which I appreciate… I am an out of state resident and required someone to represent myself.
David Long and his office were attentive and efficient in communication. They took the time to hear my case and then worked my case from there. I am from out of state and did not understand the traffic laws that were in place. I came to a wonderful resolution in my case.
Working with David was great. He represented me in court and successfully got my reckless driving ticket reduced to a non-moving violation. He saved me the trouble of traveling back to Virginia since I am out of state. I would definitely recommend for anyone else in a similar situation.
I hired Mr. Long to represent me in a traffic case, and overall, I’m satisfied with how things turned out. He was able to get my speeding ticket reduced to a non-moving violation… If you’re looking for someone to handle a traffic ticket as an out of state driver that isn’t overly expensive… to get it resolved with minimal hassle, l’d recommend him. He got the job done.
I can’t recommend David Long enough! He helped me get out of a really bad speeding ticket in Virginia, and I’m beyond grateful… I live in North Carolina and he attended court for me and emailed me right after.
I had a positive experience working with Mr. Long’s office on a recent traffic matter… I really appreciated how they handled everything from start to finish with minimal hassle on my end. I highly recommend Mr. Long to anyone looking for a traffic attorney.
Attorney Long was very helpful in my out of state reckless driving ticket. He told me exactly what to do, i followed his instructions and everything worked out perfectly! Thank you so much for your help with this case!!
I got an excessive speeding ticket in Dinwiddie County, VA. I was very worried because I am an out of state driver… I hired David Long to handle my case and the charge was reduced to a nonmoving traffic violation and I only had to pay a small fine. He was very nice and was great about communicating with me every step of the way.
I am so thankful that I was able to find Attorney Long to represent me in traffic court. I live out of state and did not know how to hire an attorney… He was able to get my reckless driving charge reduced to 9 mph over the limit which is a HUGE relief.
Traffic Violations as an out of state driver can make things difficult with phone calls, mail, or mandatory appearances. Mr. Long helped by taking care of all the above in 2018. He listened to what I wanted during the consultation and delivered results.
I hired Mr. Long to take care of a traffic offence that required him to represented me as I am out of state. On consultancy he was very knowledgeable of the court system, he was straight forward in the possible outcomes of my case. When it was all done I walked away having to pay a low fine and court fees.
As an out of state driver I was unaware of the severity of speeding in the state of Virginia and was extremely concerned about what to do. Mr. Long was able to help get the charges reduced and I couldn’t be more pleased. Highly recommend Mr. Long.
While traveling through Dinwiddie county, I received an reckless speeding ticket on the interstate. I contacted the office of David Long and received a phone call shortly after… He handled everything professionally ,straight forward and arranged it so I didn’t have to travel back to the Court House.
Overall: excellent experience. Mr. Long is VERY quick to respond, fully answered any questions I had, clearly laid out the necessary steps and ultimately acheived the best possible outcome in my case. I am an out of state driver that was charged with reckless (81 in a 70mph).
Excellent attorney! I had no worries! The ticket was 80 in a 60mph. It was dismissed provided court costs and taking the driving course. Thanks again!!!!
I needed an attorney to represent me for a ticket in VA. I am an out of state residence so didn’t want to appear at the court and needed a reputed attorney who would represent me with integrity and professionalism… My case was dismissed.
Kept me informed and was accessible by cell phone whenever I needed to speak to him. This was very helpful since I was an out of state client.
David Long got a speeding ticket dismissed for me and helped me through the legal process. This was especially important as I am out of state.
I hope I don’t need legal services in VA again, but if I do, I would retain Attoney Long again in a second. I’m from out of state and received a ticket for reckless driving (80+). He worked it down to speeding w/court costs less than $100 and a defensive driving class.
I found David through an internet search without any reference and after speaking with him on the phone, I decided to take him on to assist me with a Reckless Driving citation for doing 82 mph in a 70 mph zone… In the end the reckless driving citation was reduced to a non-moving violation with no points.
