Increase in Reckless Driving Speed in Virginia

Speeding in Virginia is usually charged as a traffic infraction. It is punished with a fine and demerit points are automatically assessed to a driver’s record by the DMV after a conviction or pre-paying a fine. Sometimes, though, speeding in Virginia can be charged as Reckless Driving, which is a crime. Many drivers find themselves driving at speeds considered criminal without even realizing it. However, Virginia recently increased the minimum speed at which drivers can be charged with Reckless Driving. For more information on the increase in Reckless Driving speed in Virginia, read the post below.

Increase in Reckless Driving Speed in Virginia Welcomed by Many

Increase in Reckless Driving Speed in Virginia

Virginia recently increased the minimum speed for Reckless Driving (Va. Code §46.2-862). Previously, a driver could be charged with Reckless Driving for driving 80 miles-per-hour or more, or for driving 20 miles-per-hour or more over the speed limit. Now, the minimum speed for a Reckless Driving charge in Virginia is 85 miles-per-hour. A driver can, however, also still be charged with Reckless Driving for driving 20 miles-per-hour or more over the speed limit.

Penalty for Virginia Reckless Driving Charge

Reckless Driving is still a crime in Virginia. It is a Class 1 misdemeanor, which is punished with up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and driver’s license suspension for up to 6 months. The DMV will also add 6 demerit points to a driver’s record after a Reckless Driving conviction.

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