Possibly. It is certainly worthwhile consulting a lawyer for such charge.
Reckless Driving, like many traffic or misdemeanor offenses, can be deceiving. It often appears harmless and many decide to handle the matter in court themselves. After all, a Reckless Driving charge is simply an overblown speeding or traffic matter, right? Do not be deceived. Reckless Driving in Virginia is a class 1 misdemeanor and carries a penalty of up to 12 months incarceration and $2,500 fine, either or both. The court can also suspend your privilege to drive in Virginia for up to 6 months.
Candidly, most do not go to jail or lose their privilege to drive for Reckless Driving (depending on the circumstances, of course). But, it is important to note that even if the court simply imposes a mere fine or less, upon conviction, the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will assess 6 demerit points to your driving point balance and the conviction will remain on your record for 11 years. Often, the most significant punishment is your increased insurance rates, or worse, for the next 11 years.
Accordingly, it is well worth at least consulting a lawyer for a Reckless Driving or other seemingly harmless traffic matters. A lawyer can assist in determining what defenses you may have available. A lawyer can also assist in negotiations with police/prosecution, mitigation and presenting you to the court in the most favorable light possible.