Speeding tickets are some of the most common traffic charges in Richmond, but they can still create real problems. Many people are surprised to learn that certain speeding violations in Virginia are actually criminal offenses, not simple infractions. Whether you were stopped on I-95, I-64, Broad Street, or anywhere in central Virginia, a speeding ticket can affect your driving record, insurance rates, and even your job depending on the circumstances. At Inch Law, we help drivers understand their options and fight back against penalties that can linger for years.
Speeding laws in Virginia are strict. Some tickets are treated like normal infractions, while others fall under reckless driving laws. A regular speeding ticket typically involves fines and points, but the long-term impact comes from what stays on your record and how your insurance company reacts.
Speeding also becomes more serious when it occurs in school zones, construction zones, or high-traffic areas. Officers in Richmond and Henrico County regularly monitor highways and busy corridors, so even small mistakes can lead to costly tickets.
When you’re pulled over, it may feel like paying the fine is the easiest solution, but doing so is often the same as admitting guilt. That’s where an experienced Richmond speeding ticket lawyer can make a real difference.
In Virginia, certain speeds are automatically considered reckless driving. This can happen faster than most drivers realize. A simple mistake like trying to keep up with highway traffic can result in a criminal charge if the speed is too high. These situations often lead to stiff penalties, including possible jail time and license suspension. Many drivers don’t learn the difference between regular speeding and reckless driving until they’re already in court. Our team helps you understand where your case falls on that spectrum and what steps you can take to protect yourself.
Here are a few examples of when speeding becomes reckless driving:
Driving 20 mph or more over the posted speed limit
Driving faster than 85 mph anywhere in Virginia
While the law is strict, there are often ways to challenge the evidence or reduce the charge.
A single speeding ticket may not seem like a big deal, but the consequences can build quickly. Fines vary depending on how fast you were going, and each ticket adds points to your driving record. Too many points can result in license restrictions or mandatory driver improvement courses.
Insurance companies also pay close attention to speeding violations. One ticket can raise your rates for years, and multiple violations can lead to canceled policies. We work to keep these long-term consequences off your record whenever possible.
For drivers whose jobs depend on driving — including delivery workers, rideshare drivers, and CDL holders — speeding tickets can affect income and employment. Even if you don’t drive for work, the financial impact can be significant.
Every speeding case is different, and we take a personal approach to each one. Our attorneys review the details of your stop, the accuracy of the speed measurement, and any factors that may support a lighter outcome. We look for opportunities to reduce the charge, negotiate alternatives, or challenge the evidence when appropriate.
Our team also understands the Richmond and Henrico County court systems well, which helps us guide clients toward realistic expectations and the best possible strategy. Whether you’re facing a simple speeding infraction or a speeding-related reckless driving charge, we work to protect your license and your record.
Legal issues can bring on stress, frustration, or confusion, and we aim to ease that burden. We take time to understand your goals and the bigger picture of how this ticket affects your life. Our philosophy centers on meeting clients where they are, communicating clearly, and providing support that goes beyond the courtroom. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Your story matters, and we tailor our defense strategy to match your needs. From minimizing fines to preventing criminal convictions, our goal is to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Can a speeding ticket be reduced or dismissed?
Yes. Depending on your driving history and the specifics of the stop, reductions or dismissals are possible.
How many points does a speeding ticket add?
It depends on the speed. Tickets can add three, four, or six points to your driving record.
Is speeding over 85 mph always reckless driving?
Yes. In Virginia, anything over 85 mph is automatically considered reckless driving.
Will a speeding ticket affect my insurance?
Most likely. Many insurance companies raise rates after even one ticket.
Do I need to go to court for a speeding ticket?
Not always. In many cases, we can appear on your behalf or help you prepare for court.
