What Is the Penalty for Reckless Driving in Virginia?

Reckless driving is a serious offense, and the state of Virginia takes it very seriously. If you’re caught driving recklessly in Virginia, you’ll face stiff penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the penalties associated with reckless driving in Virginia.

What Is Reckless Driving in Virginia?

Before we dive into the penalties, let’s first look at what constitutes reckless driving in Virginia. According to the Code of Virginia, reckless driving is defined as driving a vehicle “in a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” In other words, it’s driving a vehicle in a manner that demonstrates a complete disregard for the safety of yourself or others.

Reckless driving can include activities such as speeding, driving while intoxicated, racing, and passing a stopped school bus. It’s important to be aware that even if you are driving responsibly, you can still be charged with reckless driving if the police officer believes you’re acting in a wanton disregard for the safety of others.

Penalties for Reckless Driving in Virginia

In Virginia, reckless driving is a Class 1 misdemeanor. That means you can face up to 12 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,500. In addition, you may have six demerit points added to your driving record, and your license may be suspended for up to six months.

It’s important to note that the penalties for reckless driving in Virginia can vary depending on the severity of the offense. For instance, if you’re caught driving 20 miles per hour or more over the speed limit, you may face a more severe penalty.

Reckless Driving and Insurance Rates

If you’re convicted of reckless driving in Virginia, it could have an impact on your car insurance rates. Insurance companies view reckless driving as a serious offense, and they may increase your rates if you’re convicted. It’s important to note that some insurance companies may refuse to cover you if you’ve been convicted of reckless driving.

Virginia Commonwealth Driving Improvement Clinics

The Virginia Commonwealth Driving Improvement Clinics offer online 8-hour classes designed to help drivers who have been convicted of reckless driving. The class is designed to help drivers understand the risks associated with reckless driving and the consequences of their actions.

The course includes topics such as defensive driving, the legal implications of reckless driving, and the importance of obeying traffic laws. The course also includes a test at the end to help ensure that the driver has a thorough understanding of the material. Upon completion of the course, the driver will receive a certificate that can be presented to their insurance company or the court.

Conclusion

Reckless driving is a serious offense in Virginia, and it carries with it steep penalties, including jail time, fines, and license suspension. In addition, you may be required to take a class at a Virginia Commonwealth Driving Improvement Clinic. It’s important to remember that reckless driving can have serious consequences. Therefore, it’s important to always drive responsibly and obey traffic laws.