What You Need to Know if You’re Charged with Reckless Driving in Fairfax County

In Virginia, reckless driving by speed is much more than a traffic ticket — it’s a criminal offense. If you were caught speeding 20 over the limit or driving over 85 mph, you could be facing a Class 1 misdemeanor charge. This is especially common on roads like I-66, I-95, I-495, Route 28, Fairfax County Parkway, and Route 50, all heavily patrolled and known for speed enforcement.

What is Reckless Driving by Speed?

Under Virginia Code § 46.2-862, you can be charged with reckless driving if you are:

Driving 20 mph or more over the posted speed limit
Driving over 85 mph, regardless of the speed limit

This is a common charge on major Fairfax roads including I-66, I-95, I-495, Route 28, Fairfax County Parkway, and Route 50.

Penalties for Reckless Driving in Fairfax

Up to 12 months in jail
Fines up to $2,500
License suspension up to 6 months
6 demerit points on your DMV record
A permanent criminal record

Can Reckless Driving be Reduced to Speeding?

In many cases, yes — especially if you take steps to show the court you take this seriously. This process is called mitigation.

Mitigation Strategies for Reckless Driving in Fairfax County

We often recommend completing one or more of the following before your court date:

Driver Improvement Course (online or in-person)
Reckless & Aggressive Driving Program (commonly recommended in Fairfax)
Community service (20-50 hours)
Research paper on reckless driving dangers
Obtain your driving record (clean history helps)

Why You Need a Fairfax Reckless Driving Attorney

Reckless driving is a criminal offense — not just a traffic infraction. Walking into Fairfax Traffic Court alone could lead to fines, a suspended license, or worse. An experienced reckless driving lawyer knows how to challenge speed evidence, negotiate reductions, and present mitigation effectively.

Internal Resources

Frequently Asked Questions About Reckless Driving by Speed

What speed is reckless driving in Fairfax County?
Speeding 20 over or over 85 mph is automatically reckless driving in Virginia.

Is reckless driving a criminal charge?
Yes, reckless driving is a Class 1 misdemeanor, the same level as DUI.

Can reckless driving be reduced to speeding?
With strong mitigation and experienced representation, yes — reductions are possible.

Do I need a lawyer for reckless driving?
Yes, especially in Fairfax where courts take reckless driving very seriously.

Call Dischley Law for Experienced Reckless Driving Defense

Don’t let a reckless driving charge ruin your record. Whether you were stopped on I-495, I-95, I-66, Route 28, Fairfax County Parkway, or Route 50, Dischley Law can help. Call now or request a consultation online.

Call: 703-215-9337
Request a Consultation

About Dischley Law Attorneys

At Dischley Law, PLLC, our experienced attorneys have spent years representing clients in Fairfax County and across Northern Virginia. As former prosecutors, we understand exactly how the Commonwealth builds reckless driving cases — and we use that insider knowledge to build strong defenses for our clients. Whether you’ve been charged with reckless driving by speed, DUI, or any other serious offense, we fight to protect your rights, your record, and your future.

Our attorneys regularly appear in Fairfax County General District Court, and we have successfully defended clients charged with reckless driving on I-66, I-95, I-495, Route 28, Fairfax County Parkway, and Route 50.

Contact Dischley Law Today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you navigate your case.