Understanding the Long-Term Impact of Speeding Tickets on Your Record

By Reece | | Uncategorized

Speeding - The Jackson Law Group, PLLC

Speeding tickets are a common occurrence on the roads of Virginia, and while they may seem routine, they can have lasting consequences. Your driving record is a vital document that can influence various aspects of your life, including insurance premiums. In this article, our Virginia speeding ticket lawyer will shed light on how long a speeding ticket remains on your record and provide insights into related demerit points.

Demerit Points and Their Duration

Virginia employs a demerit point system to assess penalties for speeding tickets, and the duration for which these points linger on your record varies based on the severity of the violation:

  • Three Points: Speeding between one and nine miles per hour over the speed limit can result in the addition of three demerit points to your driver’s license.

  • Four Points: Exceeding the speed limit by 10 to 19 miles per hour can lead to four demerit points being tacked onto your driver’s license.

  • Six Points: The most serious violation occurs when you’re caught driving 20 miles per hour or more over the posted speed limit. This is classified as reckless driving in Virginia, carrying not only potential jail time but also a lengthy impact on your driving record. A reckless driving conviction remains on your record for a substantial 11 years.

However, it’s essential to note that after two years, you may have the opportunity to remove demerit points from your driver’s license. The duration for which the conviction remains on your record can range from five to eleven years, depending on the severity of the offense.

Exploring Defenses for Speeding Tickets

Don’t hastily pay a speeding ticket and admit guilt. Virginia offers various defenses that can help maintain a clean driving record:

  1. Device Defect: If the speed-detecting device used by law enforcement, such as a radar gun, was defective, it could provide grounds for a defense.

  2. Improper Device Use: If the device was not operated correctly by law enforcement, this could cast doubt on the accuracy of the measurement.

  3. Speedometer Malfunction: A malfunctioning speedometer that caused you to be unaware of your speed may serve as a valid defense.

  4. Clean Record: A clean driving record can be an effective defense, especially for first-time offenders.

  5. Medical Emergency: Demonstrating that you were responding to a genuine medical emergency, such as rushing to the hospital for childbirth, can present a compelling case.

Consult Our Virginia Speeding Tickets Lawyer

Every speeding ticket case is unique, and the most suitable defense strategy depends on the specifics of your situation. At The Jackson Law Group, PLLC, our Virginia speeding tickets lawyer is ready to assess your case, strategize your defense, and work toward preserving your clean driving record. Reach out to us today via phone or text at (276) 200-5479 or chat with us online to request a consultation. Your driving record and your future on the road are worth protecting.