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Virginia Beach Beach Reckless Driving Lawyer Discusses VA Code §46.2-862

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headshot of Anthony Montagna III smiling at the camera

Anthony Montagna, III is a Virginia Beach reckless driving defense lawyer

§46.2 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, As Amended

In Virginia Beach and throughout VA, people can be charged with reckless driving for a number of reasons.  However, in my opinion, the majority of reckless driving charges in Virginia Beach and throughout VA are based on §46.2-862 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended. Section 46.2-862 of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended states,

A person is guilty of reckless driving who drives a motor vehicle on the highways in the Commonwealth (i) at a speed of 20 miles per hour or more in excess of the applicable maximum speed limit or (ii) in excess of 85 miles per hour regardless of the applicable maximum speed limit.”

Pacing, LIDAR, and RADAR

If you are charged with reckless driving in Norfolk, VA or elsewhere in VA for driving 20 or more miles over the speed limit or in excess of 85 mph regardless of the applicable speed limit, the police probably stopped you because of the following:

  • Pacing: when the police officer drives beside or behind your vehicle for a certain distance.  While the Virginia Courts and statutes do not define the distance, in the Virginia Beach Courts,  the distance is usually for .2 miles or more.  However, I have argued on more than a few occasions that the speed must be constant without the any acceleration or deceleration for the stated distance.  Unfortunately, Judges in Virginia Beach and elsewhere in VA frequently do not agree with my arguments.
  • RADAR: An acronym for Radio Detection and Ranging Technologies.  When a police officer operates RADAR, he is using a device that emits a continuous wave that is unmodulated , and it registers reflections or “echoes” from vehicles that are moving.  When a vehicle travels, reflections occur that are frequency shifted.  Faster cars have greater frequency shifts. Moving RADAR is more involved than stationary RADAR. Generally, the frequency reflection of the  target is shifted by the relative speed of the target vehicle and the moving RADAR.  To determine the target vehicle’s relative speed,  you add the target vehicle’s and police officer’s vehicle’s speeds that are being operated in opposite directions on the roadway or when the target vehicle and patrol car are being operated in the same direction, you determine the difference between the speed of the target vehicle and speed of the police car.
  • LIDAR: An  acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emissions of Radiation.  LADAR’s, Laser Detection and Ranging, and LIDAR’s, Light Detection and Ranging, are different types of laser technology.  To measure the target range, the laser device transmits pulsed laser light.  Additionally, the laser device must be stationary.  A minimum of two pulses from the laser device must occur  with at least two range measurements to determine speed.  The change in target range equals the speed of the target vehicle.
Police radar detection gun
Anthony Montagna, III defends reckless driving cases with RADAR in Norfolk, VA

Problems with RADAR in Virginia Beach, VA

  1. Moving RADAR in police car suddenly changes speed
  2. Radio Frequency Interference
  3. Field disturbance Sensors
  4. Mechanical Interference
  5. Natural Interference
  6. Unintentional Forms of Radiation
  7. Operator Error
  8. Multiple Vehicles in the RADAR Beam
Police officer using a radar gun for speed monitoring against a white background.
Anthony Montagna, III defends reckless driving cases with LIDAR in Norfolk, VA

Problems with LASER in Virginia Beach, VA

    1. Accuracy
    2. Shooting the Laser through Glass
    3. Target Acceleration or Deceleration
    4. Conditions in the Atmosphere
    5. Variations in Range
    6. Operational Error

How to Challenge RADAR and LIDAR Results in Virginia Beach, VA

    1. Hire an experienced lawyer familiar with LASER and RADAR technology
    2. Hire an expert witness
    3. Vigorously cross examine the police officer
    4. Accuracy Shooting the Laser through Glass

Attorney Anthony Montagna, III in blue suit sitting on a leather couch in an office with a lamp and colorful rug.

Expert in Reckless Driving Defenses

Anthony Montagna, III  with over 31 years of experience is an expert in defending reckless driving cases in . Anthony Montagna, III is an expert in defending reckless driving cases  in Virginia Beach for several reasons, which are typically found in experienced criminal defense attorneys who specialize in traffic violations and motor vehicle laws. Here’s why he is a go-to choice for defending reckless driving cases:

1.  Specialization in Traffic Law and Criminal Defense:

  • Reckless driving cases often involve complex legal issues that require deep knowledge of traffic laws, regulations, and how they are applied in a court of law. An attorney like Anthony Montagna, III, who specializes in these areas, has a thorough understanding of the legal standards, potential defenses, and how the law is enforced in reckless driving cases

  • Military, union, first responder, teacher and student discounts
  • As a lawyer with experience defending individuals against reckless driving charges, Anthony Montagna, III has a wealth of experience handling cases where the prosecution needs to prove certain elements, such as driving with willful disregard for the safety of others or driving at excessive speeds. His experience allows him to anticipate and counter the strategies of the prosecution.

  • Flat fee pricing with no hidden fees

2.  Knowledge of the Evidence:

  • Reckless driving cases are often based on evidence such as traffic camera footage, eyewitness testimony, police reports, and accident reconstruction reports. Anthony Montagna, III is skilled at examining this evidence in detail to find discrepancies, mistakes, or weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. For instance, he might challenge the accuracy of radar gun readings, the legality of the officer’s observations, or the validity of witness testimonies.

3.  Defending Against Common Misunderstandings:

  • Reckless driving charges can sometimes stem from misinterpretations or misapplications of traffic laws. Anthony Montagna, III can help clients argue that the driving behavior was misunderstood or that there were mitigating circumstances (e.g., weather conditions, road conditions, or mechanical failure) that contributed to the situation.

4.  Fighting for Lesser Charges or Reduced Penalties:

  • Even if the evidence seems strong, Anthony Montagna, III is able to negotiate a reduction in charges or alternative sentencing. For example, he may argue for a reduction to a lesser offense like “improper driving,” which often carries less severe penalties. In some cases, he may be able to have the charges dropped altogether if there’s a procedural error or lack of sufficient evidence.

5.  Understanding the Impact of Reckless Driving Convictions:

  • A reckless driving conviction can result in serious consequences, including points on your driving record, a significant increase in insurance premiums, fines, license suspension, and even jail time. An attorney, like Anthony Montagna, III, knows how critical it is to minimize these potential outcomes and would work diligently to protect your future by challenging the charges and negotiating on your behalf.

6.  Personalized Legal Strategy:

  • Every reckless driving case is unique, and Anthony Montagna, III tailors his defense strategies to the specifics of the case, whether that involves challenging the officer’s conduct during the stop, presenting an alibi, or questioning the reliability of the evidence. Anthony Montagna, III works with his client to determine the best possible defense strategy, ensuring a more personalized approach.

7.  Courtroom Experience:

  • Reckless driving cases sometimes go to trial, and Anthony Montagna, III is well-equipped to represent clients in court. He has extensive trial experience and knows how to present a compelling case, cross-examine witnesses, and effectively argue for his client’s innocence or a more lenient sentence.

8. Reputation in the Legal Community:

  • Anthony Montagna, III has a reputation for successfully defending reckless driving cases, this helps him in negotiations with prosecutors, judges, and law enforcement officers. Prosecutors are more inclined to offer a favorable plea deal when they recognize his expertise and past successes in similar cases.

9. Client Testimonials and Track Record:

  • Another key indicator of Anthony Montagna, III’s expertise is positive testimonials from past clients who were successfully defended against reckless driving charges. His track record in obtaining favorable results (e.g., dropped charges, reduced sentences) are a strong testament to his proficiency in this area.

10. Experience with Similar Cases

Some Of Anthony Montagna, III’s Results

Although every case is different, no two cases are the same, and a result in one case does not guarantee the same result in every case or predict the result of a different case, Anthony has obtained great results in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, and throughout VA.

Some of Anthony’s case results are the following:

  1. Reckless driving, 131 mph in a 55 mph zone in Norfolk:  REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION WITH $150.00 fine
  2. Reckless driving, 118 mph in a 55 mph zone:  REDUCED TO SPEEDING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  3. Reckless driving, 116 mph in a 55 mph zone:  REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION WITH $250.00 fine
  4. Reckless driving, 112 mph in a 55 mph zone in Norfolk:  REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, $250.00 fine
  5. Reckless driving, 112 mph in a 55 mph zone: DISMISSED
  6. Reckless driving, Racing:  REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  7. Reckless driving, 110 mph in a 55 mph zone in Norfolk:  REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, $350.00 fine
  8. Reckless driving, 110 mph in a 55 mph zone in Norfolk:  REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, $500.00 fine
  9. Reckless driving, 110 mph in a 55 mph zone: DISMISSED
  10. Reckless driving, 110 mph in a 55 mph zone: DISMISSED
  11. Reckless driving, 107 mph in a 65 mph zone: DISMISSED
  12. Reckless driving, 107 mph in a 55 mph zone: REDUCED TO SPEEDING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  13. Reckless driving, 107 mph in a 60 mph zone: REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  14. Reckless driving, 106 mph in a 55 mph zone: REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  15. Reckless driving, 105 mph in a 55 mph zone: DISMISSED
  16. Reckless driving, 105 mph in a 55 mph zone: DISMISSED
  17. Reckless driving, 104 mph in a 55 mph zone: REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  18. Reckless driving where police officer testified that client’s vehicle crossed lanes of traffic and had vehicle almost cut in half: DISMISSED
  19. Reckless driving, 102 mph in a 55 mph zone:  REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION WITH $500.00 fine
  20. Reckless driving, 102 mph in a 60 mph zone: DISMISSED
  21. Reckless driving, 102 mph in a 55 mph zone:  REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION WITH $500.00 fine
  22. Reckless driving, 104 mph in a 60 mph zone: REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION WITH $300.00 fine
  23. Reckless driving, 104 mph in a 30 mph zone: GUILTY OF RECKLESS DRIVING, BUT NO ACTIVE JAIL TIME
  24. Reckless driving, 101 mph in a 55 mph zone in Norfolk:  REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION WITH $100.00 fine
  25. Reckless driving where client’s vehicle ran off road, flipped over a number of times, hit trees, ultimately hit a house off the road, and where the police office believed client drove his vehicle over 90 mph: DISMISSED
  26. Reckless driving, client driving a motorcycle at a high rate of speed on the interstate with sudden lane change and driving between vehicles: REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  27. Reckless driving, 98 mph in a 60 mph zone:  REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  28. Reckless driving, 97 mph in a 60 mph zone: DISMISSED
  29. Reckless driving, 97 mph in a 55 mph zone: REDUCED TO SPEEDING
  30. Reckless driving, 96 mph in a 55 mph zone: REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  31. Reckless driving, 95 mph in a 65 mph zone: REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  32. Reckless driving, 95 mph in a 55 mph zone: DISMISSED
  33. Reckless driving, 95 mph in a 55 mph zone: REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  34. Reckless driving, 94 mph in a 65 mph zone: REDUCED TO SPEEDING
  35. Reckless driving, 94 mph in a 55 mph zone: DISMISSED
  36. Reckless driving, 93 mph in a 55 mph zone: REDUCED TO DEFECTIVE EQUIPMENT, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION WITH $250.00 FINE
  37. Reckless driving 92 mph in a 55 mph zone: DISMISSED
  38. Reckless driving, 92 mph in a 65 mph zone: REDUCED TO DEFECTIVE EQUIPMENT, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  39. Reckless driving 92 mph in a 55 mph zone: REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  40. Reckless driving 91 mph in a 55 mph zone: REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  41. Reckless driving 91 mph in a 60 mph zone: REDUCED TO SPEEDING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  42. Reckless driving 91 mph in a 60 mph zone: REDUCED TO SPEEDING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  43. Reckless driving 90 mph in a 55 mph zone: REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  44. Reckless driving 90 mph in a 60 mph zone: REDUCED TO DEFECTIVE EQUIPMENT
  45. Reckless driving 87 mph in a 55 mph zone: DISMISSED
  46. Reckless driving 86 mph in a 60 mph zone: REDUCED TO DEFECTIVE EQUIPMENT
  47. Reckless driving, 86 mph in a 55 mph zone, REDUCED TO SPEEDING
  48. Reckless driving 84 mph in a 55 mph zone: REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  49. Reckless driving 84 mph in a 55 mph zone: REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  50. Reckless driving 82 mph in a 55 mph zone: REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  51. Reckless driving 81 mph in a 55 mph zone: REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  52. Reckless driving, 80 mph in a 45 mph zone: DISMISSED
  53. Reckless driving, 80 mph in a 55 mph zone: DISMISSED
  54. Reckless driving 80 mph in a 55 mph zone: REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  55. Reckless driving, 79 mph in a 55 mph zone, REDUCED TO SPEEDING
  56. Reckless driving, 77 mph in a 55 mph zone, REDUCED TO SPEEDING
  57. Reckless driving 76 mph in a 55 mph zone: REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  58. Reckless driving, 72 mph in a 45 mph zone: DISMISSED
  59. Reckless driving, 62 mph in a 35 mph zone: REDUCED TO IMPROPER DRIVING, A TRAFFIC INFRACTION
  60. Reckless driving, 60 mph in a 30 mph zone: DISMISSED
  61. Reckless driving, 62 mph in a 30 mph zone: DISMISSED
  62. Reckless driving, 50 mph in a 25 mph zone: REDUCED TO SPEEDING
  63. Reckless driving:  DISMISSED
  64. Reckless driving:  DISMISSED
  65. Reckless driving:  DISMISSED
  66. Reckless driving: REDUCED TO SPEEDING, 19 MILES OVER THE SPEED LIMIT
  67. Reckless Driving: DISMISSED
  68. Reckless Driving: DISMISSED
  69. Reckless Driving: DISMISSED

What Some Clients Say About Anthony Montagna, III

  • “I am not a current client of Mr. Montagna, however I can say that he is not only a great lawyer, but a great person. He spent a lot of time with me discussing my reckless driving case and was patient in answering my questions, giving his opinion and advice and even giving me additional tips to help with my case. He definitely went above and beyond and I would recommend him to anyone looking for representation.”
  • “If I could give 6 stars I would! Mr. Montagna was the attorney we needed for the traffic violation! Our case was dismissed in under a minute and I thank God and Mr. Montagna for representing us!”
  • “Excellent attorney, best in the area hands down. Very professional, thorough and always accessible. Follow his instructions for the best possible outcome.”
  • “Honestly , Mr. Montagna treats like you are his family the way he cares, he takes care of his people , I was doing triple digit speed on a 60 and lord I thought it was over for me in that courtroom , he’s a genius because I literally got away with no time .. he’s that man!”
  • “Thanks to Mr. Anthony Montagna and his team for getting my case dismissed today. I really appreciate it”
  • “I had a reckless driving case today doing 95 in a 60 and added with unsafe lane change. He helped me walk out with a $100 fine before court costs. I highly recommend Mr. Montagna to be your lawyer and I highly recommend you do the stuff he requests you do to. It’ll help you out a lot. I would hire him again in a heart beat. Thank you Mr. Anthony Montagna for helping me with my reckless driving case”
  • “Anthony Montagna is absolutely one of the best if not THE BEST lawyer for reckless driving, I chose him because he had great reviews and when we sat down and talked he showed me all that I needed to get done and showed that he cared. He is very concise and aggressive and represents you in the best way possible. I had a reckless driving ticket from going 92/65 and he got it dropped to a defective equipment violation. He represented me in the very best way possible and was very quick and informative about the whole process. I wish I could give more stars, if you have a reckless driving charge, this is the guy.”
  • “Mr. Montagna represented me today and achieved the best possible outcome….dismissal of charges! My case was Reckless Driving (91 in a 65) along I-64. As a military service member and VA non-resident, I was unaware of the seriousness of a RD charge (class I misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 yr in jail and $2500 fine). Following charges I consulted with 4 different lawyers and decided to go with Anthony because of his approach during our consult. He emphasized the seriousness of the charge, made no guarantees regarding an outcome, and described to me in detail what our defense strategy should be on the day in court. He outlined a series of tasks I should complete prior to the court appearance that would give me the best possible chance at a favorable outcome. I quickly related with his candor and demeanor, and felt early in our consult the comfort in a lawyer that I was looking for. I followed his recommendations to the detail and went well above the community service hours he initially recommended (when it comes to community service, clearly more is better)! Mr. Montagna and his staff were extremely responsive whenever I had questions! I think I appreciated that part the most because this entire situation proved rather stressful considering I had absolutely no experience with the judicial system before this experience. His performance in court was just as impressive! He presented my defense with calm and poise. He guided me through a line of questioning before the Judge that displayed that I both took the charges seriously and worked hard to atone. The experience overall was rather humbling, and I appreciate greatly Anthony’s representation throughout!! If you find yourself in a bind, you’d do well to give Mr. Montagna a call!”
  • “Anthony Montagna was a huge help, He took his time and spoke personally with me on my case and he got me the best results on my case. I highly recommend!!”

 

ONE COLUMBUS CENTER, SUITE 600, PMB 025, VIRGINIA BEACH, VA 23462

757-625-3500

No Case Is Too Simple Or Too Complex For Your “Go To Virginia Beach Reckless Driving Lawyer”

Anthony, a Norfolk reckless driving lawyer and expert,  and the lawyers at his firm know that it is important to fight for your clients in criminal and traffic matters.  No case is too complex or too simple.

When you may go to jail for a reckless driving charge or any traffic violation in Norfolk, Virginia, call Anthony Montagna, III and the experienced reckless driving lawyers at the firm. Our phone number is 757-625-3500, and help is only a phone call away.

With Anthony L. Montagna, III, you can be confident that you have a highly experienced reckless driving lawyer on your side. Anthony will fight to protect you and your family. He knows that every case is important to you, and he will battle for you in court.

Cities and Counties In Which Anthony Montagna, III Defends Individuals Charged With Reckless Driving:

Anthony Montagna, III’s Awards

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2022 Top 10 Best Attorney Award for Client Satisfaction by American Institute of DUI/DWI Attorneys.
Anthony Montagna, III is one of the 10 Best 2022
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Anthony Montagna is listed as one of the top 3 DUI lawyers in Norfolk, VA with ThreeBest Rated
Best of the Best: Anthony Montagna, III
Best of the Best: Anthony Montagna, III
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Anthony Montagna, III has an A+ rating by the BBB

 

Anthony Montagna, III

Written By Anthony Montagna, III

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Anthony graduated from Norfolk Academy in 1986. After graduation, Anthony attended and graduated from the University of Richmond with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics. Practicing since 1993, Anthony has successfully defended individuals charged with serious crimes and traffic offenses like reckless driving and DUI charges.

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