Virginia One of the Strictest States for Reckless Driving
Virginia is by no means easy on those that violate traffic laws. Virginia police officers enforce these traffic rules often. However, it may surprise some to find how strict Virginia’s reckless driving law is compared to the rest of the nation. A recent study shows just how strict our law regarding reckless driving truly is.
6th in the Nation
The law in Virginia against reckless driving is one of the strictest in the nation. Virginia ranks 6th overall. The factors of the study included the reckless penalties, enforcement of speeding, what speed was considered reckless, and the fines and jail time for a first offense. The penalties for reckless driving in Virginia include a maximum punishment of up to 12 months in jail, and a fine of up to $2,500 or both; this is tied for 8th overall in the nation.
Highlights from the Study
The study also revealed some interesting facts about the states and the laws they enact. Seventy-five percent of states have laws that state exceeding the Almost a third of states use speed cameras to capture reckless driving. No state has mandatory jail time for speeding, however in Virginia if you drive over 90 miles per hour you may spend a day in jail for each MPH over 90. Most states use a point system, as in Virginia, to determine when a license can be suspended. In Virginia, if you accumulate 18 points in 12 months, or 24 points in 24 months, your license will be suspended.
As the study shows a reckless driving charge is a serious offense in Virginia with severe consequences, both financially and for your freedom. If you gain too many point demerits your license will be suspended; a conviction can also be a financial burden on you and your family; and the suspension of your license can have serious consequences for your career. When fighting a charge for reckless driving it is important to have an attorney on your side who understands the laws and the possible defenses to the crime charged. These nuances can be the difference between a guilty or not guilty verdict. The Loudoun, Fairfax, Prince William, and Winchester attorneys at Simms Showers are experienced in a wide variety of criminal law matters and can advocate for your rights. We know the implications a reckless driving charge can have on your finances and your life. Contact us today for immediate assistance.
