Your car's GPS can be a lifesaver when you need directions to your destination, but it won't necessarily be effective as evidence in a reckless driving case.
How You May Be Able to Use GPS Evidence in a Reckless Driving Case
The problem with using GPS evidence in your reckless driving case is that you'll need to prove your GPS is working correctly. A trooper's radar unit is regularly checked to make sure it is calibrated appropriately. A GPS unit isn't, since its main function is to make sure you can find your way to your destination.
If you want to use GPS evidence in your reckless driving case, your attorney will likely recommend obtaining a speedometer calibration. The results of a speedometer calibration, when compared to your GPS, can be used to verify that the evidence you're presenting is correct.
Speedometer calibration is done with a machine called a dynamometer. With your car's wheels resting on the dynamometer's cylinders, the dynamometer shows how fast you would be traveling if you were on the road. This reading is then compared to what your speedometer says.
If the results of the speedometer calibration aren't in your favor, you don't have to submit the evidence unless the prosecution requests it. Since speedometer calibrations are fairly inexpensive to obtain, this makes them well worth investigating as an avenue of defense in your reckless driving case.
GPS evidence supported by a speedometer calibration is most likely to be effective if you were initially clocked at close to Virginia's reckless driving cutoff of 20 miles over the posted speed limit or 85 miles per hour regardless of the posted speed limit. In these cases, a discrepancy of a few miles can typically get your charge reduced to a lesser offense.
Building the Strongest Possible Defense
Since reckless driving is considered a criminal offense and not a simple traffic violation, you'll face hefty fines, the possibility of jail time, and the stigma of a criminal record if you're convicted. Virginia attorney T. Kevin Wilson is committed to helping clients build an aggressive defense against reckless driving charges. Call today to schedule a free, no-obligation initial consultation.
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