Virginia Traffic Law Overview

Even though most people assume that traffic offenses are only minor infractions, Virginia law treats many traffic offenses as misdemeanor criminal offenses. Virginia law even categorizes the most serious traffic offenses as felony offenses that carry the possibility of time in prison. In addition to jail time, all traffic offenses may come with points on your driver’s license and fines. If you’re facing the allegation of a traffic offense in Virginia, it’s important to understand your rights and options.

Traffic laws in Virginia

Virginia laws chapter 46.2 list the rules for motor vehicles in the State of Virginia. Virginia law prohibits a number of activities including the following:

  • Drunk driving
  • Driving under the influence of drugs
  • Operating without a valid license
  • Failing to have the required insurance
  • Reckless driving
  • Failing to wear a seatbelt
  • Fleeing the scene of a crash
  • Transporting a child without the appropriate car seat
  • Speeding
  • Making unlawful changes to a motor vehicle

Each traffic offense has its own penalties. In all cases, drivers can expect a fine. It’s important to understand the possible penalties for the charged offense in order to make the best plan to fight the charges.

Reckless driving in Virginia

Reckless driving is a violation of Virginia law 46.2-852. Virginia defines reckless driving as any driving that endangers the life, limb or property of someone else. Even if you’re driving at or below the posted speed limit, you may still find yourself charged with reckless driving.

charge of reckless driving often relies on the opinion of the investigating officer. One person may think that driving activity constitutes reckless driving while another person believes that the same behavior is safe and prudent. If you disagree with the police officer’s characterization of your driving, you may take your case to trial where a judge or jury can make the final decision. Police officers often fail to gather video evidence or make a detailed report. An experienced Virginia reckless driving attorney can help you point out law enforcement errors to the court and ask for a verdict in your favor.

How to a fight traffic ticket in Virginia

An experienced reckless driving attorney in Richmond Virginia can help you fight back when you’re facing a traffic violation charge. They can help you take the appropriate steps to demand a hearing, discover evidence and present an effective defense. If you’re facing a traffic charge, you have a limited time period to fight the charges. Contact a Richmond Virginia reckless driving attorney today to begin.