Reckless driving is a serious offense in Virginia Beach, carrying significant legal, financial, and personal consequences.
The city’s busy roads, combined with the region’s tourism and military presence, make strict enforcement of reckless driving laws a priority for public safety.
What Constitutes Reckless Driving in Virginia Beach?
Reckless driving in Virginia Beach is broadly defined as operating a vehicle in a manner that endangers life, limb, or property.
Virginia law defines several specific actions as reckless driving, including:
- Driving 20 mph or more above the posted speed limit or over 85 mph, regardless of the limit.
- Passing a stopped school bus that is taking on or discharging children, elderly individuals, or individuals with mental or physical disabilities.
- Driving too fast for traffic conditions, regardless of the posted speed limit.
- Passing on or approaching the crest of a hill or a curve on the highway when the driver’s view is obstructed.
- Traveling abreast of another vehicle in a lane designed for one.
- Failing to maintain control of the vehicle.
- Driving a vehicle with inadequate or improperly adjusted brakes.
- Racing.
- Transporting a passenger on the hood or roof of a motor vehicle
A recent example in Virginia Beach involved a driver leading police on a high-speed chase on I-264, traveling against traffic, and ultimately barricading himself in his vehicle.
This incident resulted in multiple reckless driving charges, felony eluding, and other serious offenses.
Dangers of Reckless Driving
Reckless driving poses substantial risks to everyone on the road, including drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Some of the primary dangers include:
- Increased Risk of Accidents: Excessive speed and loss of vehicle control are leading causes of severe crashes, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
- Injury Severity: Reckless driving accidents can cause traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, fractures, internal injuries, and permanent disfigurement.
- Collateral Damage: Reckless drivers endanger not just themselves but also innocent bystanders, including children at school bus stops and emergency responders.
- Financial Impact: Victims and their families may face significant medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation costs.
Legal Consequences of Reckless Driving
Virginia treats reckless driving as a criminal offense, not just a traffic infraction. The penalties are severe:
- Class 1 Misdemeanor: Reckless driving is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor, the most serious type of misdemeanor in Virginia.
- Jail Time: Conviction can result in up to 12 months in jail.
- Fines: Fines can reach up to $2,500.
- License Suspension: Drivers may lose their license for up to six months in many cases, and in some cases, the suspension can be longer.
- Demerit Points: Six demerit points are added to the driver’s record, which can lead to further suspension if too many points accumulate.
- Criminal Record: A conviction results in a criminal record, which can affect employment, security clearances, insurance rates, and more.
- Insurance Impact: Convicted drivers typically see significant increases in insurance premiums.
Conclusion
Reckless driving in Virginia Beach is a grave offense with far-reaching consequences. The law covers a range of dangerous behaviors, including excessive speeding and failing to stop for school buses.
The risks include devastating accidents, severe injuries, and lasting financial and legal repercussions. Drivers in Virginia Beach should be aware of the seriousness of these laws and the importance of safe, responsible driving to protect themselves and the community.
Schedule a Consultation with Preston, Wilson & Crandley, PLC
At Preston, Wilson & Crandley, PLC, our experienced team works tirelessly to make sure you receive the support and compensation you deserve when you have been injured due to the negligence of another driver.
Give us a call and let our experience work for you.
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If you need a Personal Injury Attorney in Virginia Beach, call (757) 486-2700.
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