Yes. In Virginia, the crime of reckless driving applies to anyone who drives a vehicle—not just drivers of passenger cars. While all drivers face significant legal penalties if they are found guilty of reckless driving, truckers face additional consequences because of their line of work.
For a Trucker, a Reckless Driving Conviction Could Mean the End of a Career
A trucker with a commercial driver’s license may be subject to consequences from three different sources. Specifically, a trucker may face penalties from:
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The Commonwealth of Virginia. Reckless driving is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia and the legal penalties for committing this crime may include a significant financial fine, up to 12 months in jail, and a suspension of your driver’s license.
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The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). While the FMCSA does not define reckless driving, it has classified reckless driving as a serious violation for drivers who have commercial drivers’ licenses and the agency may impose penalties for serious violations that occur in any state. Two serious violations within three years may result in a 60-day disqualification from operating a commercial vehicle and a third violation in three years can bring that disqualification up to 120 days.
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An employer. Your employer may decide that your employment should be terminated because of your reckless driving conviction and other employers may be unwilling to hire you as a driver.
Generally, these potential consequences only apply if you plead guilty to or if you are found guilty of reckless driving. Accordingly, it is important to understand the evidence against you and to make informed decisions about how to respond to the charge of reckless driving.
Get the Legal Help That You Deserve if You’ve Been Charged With Reckless Driving
You are facing a serious charge that could impact your livelihood and result in jail time. It is important to take this charge seriously and to make sure that you are treated fairly in accordance with Virginia law.
Protect your rights today by contacting The Wilson Law Firm for a free consultation. We can review your case with you and help you through this difficult time by making sure that all of your legal rights are protected.
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