Understanding Reckless Driving Laws in Virginia

Reckless driving in Virginia is is a class one Misdemeanor offense and there are 14 types of reckless driving. All 14 types of reckless driving offenses can be found in the code of Virginia law section 46.2. Reckless driving in the state of Virginia is defined by any person who deliberately operates a motor vehicle in an unsafe or “reckless” manner without considering the consequences or the possible harmful outcome of their actions. The term reckless by definition means when a person or a person’s actions attempt something without caring about the consequences of their action.

All 14 types of reckless driving are a class one misdemeanor offense. As far as misdemeanors go, a class one offense is the most severe. This means that there are serious consequences for any person that is charged with reckless driving. These penalties can vary, but the minimum penalties for a class one misdemeanor in the state of Virginia are as follows:

  • Jail time for up to 12 months
  • A fine of up to $2,500
  • Possible license suspension or revocation
  • Criminal record
  • Insurance increases

The 14 types of reckless driving according to Virginia state law are as follows:

General Reckless Driving

A general reckless driving charge will be given to anyone who causes a car accident due to any form of reckless driving. The Virginia statute states that reckless driving is “a disregard for the driver of a motor vehicle for the consequence of his act and an indifference to the safety of life, limb or property.”

Reckless Driving by Speed

A driver will receive a reckless driving charge if they drive 20 mph under the posted speed limit or over 80 mph in any area.

Reckless driving based on failure to maintain control or faulty brakes
If someone drives a vehicle that is not under proper control or a vehicle that has faulty breaks and causes an accident they will receive a reckless driving charge.

  • Passing when the view is obstructed
  • Car overloaded
  • Passing two vehicles abreast
  • Two vehicles in one lane
  • Passing at an intersection or railroad crossing
  • Passing a stopped school bus
  • Failing to use proper signals
  • Driving too fast for traffic conditions
  • Failing to yield at the right away
  • Racing

If you are facing a reckless driving charge in the state of Virginia, getting in contact with a traffic attorney could greatly benefit your case. A Virginia traffic attorney could get your penalties reduced dramatically, and they may even be able to get your case dropped entirely. Avoiding a criminal record is vital, and a Virginia traffic attorney can build your case for you to assure that your case goes the way you need it to.

https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title46.2/

Seattle Police Arrest Two Teens Accused of Hit-And-Run With Stolen Vehicle

Tuesday Afternoon Seattle Police Officers apprehended a teenage boy and girl after receiving reports of a stolen vehicle involved in hit-and-accident in Seattle. The hit-and-run accident occurred around 3:30 p.m. at the intersection of East Thomas and East Broadway Streets. Nearby witnesses spotted three occupants fleeing the scene of the accident.

The Jeep that the suspects stole was reported stolen a few day ago from the city of Kirkland, Washington. Police were able to arrest a 16-year-old boy and a 14-year-old girl but could find the third suspect. Investigators are now looking into who the third suspect was and where they can find him.

Luckily everyone was safe and didn’t receive any injuries in the accident. If you or a family member have been arrest for a criminal offense in the Puget Sound area, contact our experienced Seattle criminal defense attorneys today.

Drunk Driver Arrested After Driving Wrong Way on I-85 Causing Accident in Dinwiddie

Late Monday Night, Virginia State Police responded to an accident involving three vehicles with medical personnel just after 9:30 p.m. Apparently, the accident occurred when a drunk Pennsylvania driver entered the wrong way on Interstate 85 and crashed into two semi-trucks. State Police shut down the highway for several hours until the scene of the accident was clear and investigators had gathered what they needed.

The driver was identified as Oxford, Pennsylvania resident Kellie Clyde. According to investigators, the 1997 Dodge Dakota struck a semi near a work zone at mile marker 49. The Dodge then spun around and came to rest in the center of I-85 where it was hit by another tractor-trailer.

Virginia State Police reported that Kellie was arrested and charged with DUI but didn’t disclose their condition.

If you or a family member have been arrested for DUI in Dinwiddie and are in need of help? Contact our experienced Dinwiddie DUI attorney today for a free legal consultation.