reckless driving in VA. Advice please

[prs24]

What is the name of your state? Virginia

I would appreciate any advice. This weekend I received a reckless driving ticket going 81/55 (46.2.862) in Tappahannock, VA (which is evidently in Essex County). I honestly did not realize I was going at this speed. I was driving and had another car tailgating me so close that I couldnt even see the bummper of his car. The officer pulled us bother over. I proceeded to tell him that I didnt realize I was going 81 as everytime I slowed down, speed up or changed lanes the car behind me was right on my tail. I was preoccupied with looking in my review mirror rather than monitoring my speed.
I've been driving for 12 years. Three years ago I got my first ticket for 5 or 10 miles over i believe. This should be off my record now and I think I may have even earned positive points for good driving over the years. Ive been looking online and Im so scared now. Im curious to know realisticly what the punishment would be. Some of the research I've done says jail time, 2500 fee, suspended license, etc. I have a decent record...what are my odds of JAIL TIME!!! or suspended license.

These are my questions:
1. I really cant afford a lawyer....do I really need to get one? ( I hope they have payment plans)
2. If I do this on my own what do I say when they ask guilty or non guilty? If I say guilty do I have the option to at least explain my side?
3. Should I take a driving class before court to help with the possiblity of reduceing the penalties. Or should I wait so I have other options for them to give me instead of jail!
4. If I am found guilty and they give me a huge fine do I have to pay everything in full right then and there or does VA offer a payment plan type option?

I guess Im just not sure what to do and would really appreciate any advice!

fisrt of all, ive always heard if you plee guilty that yes you can set up a payment plan, and 2nd request that you take driving class in court, but most states wont let you take that if you have gone 20 or more over the speed limit (which is considered reckess driving, which is what you said your ticket was for) but you can try to get it reduced by pleeing Guilty but with excuse or No Contest, and make up a story about getting somewhere quickly. Appoligize and admit you were wrong bla bla...and pray your judge's coffee wasnt horrible that morning!

[maddoggieD]

Get a lawyer. Or get a Criminal Record upon conviction. The choice is yours in Virginia. R/D is a Criminal Offence (Class 1 Misdemeanor) so act accordingly.