In the state of Virginia, Reckless Driving is mainly defined as driving 20+ mph over the posted speed limit, or driving over 80 mph no matter the posted limit. It is a class 1 misdemeanor and can land even the most law abiding citizen in jail or stuck with up to a $2,500.00 fine.
Del. Joe Morrissey, D-Henrico County, was the one to sponsor a bill asking the serious statute to be amended to un-include 80mph+. Morrissey’s argument was that if the posted zone is 70mph and someone is doing 81mph, they shouldn’t be stopped and given a misdemeanor — just a speeding ticket. However, other members of the sub-committee disagreed and struck it down in a 7-2 vote. Virginia State Police were glad to see the bill fail as it could lead to a fiscal impact as well as more fatal crashes. A higher rate of speed tends to cause more accidents and fatalities.
For now, the Virginia Reckless Driving statute will continue to read:
§ 46.2-862. Exceeding speed limit.
A person shall be guilty of reckless driving who drives a motor vehicle on the highways in the Commonwealth (i) at a speed of twenty miles per hour or more in excess of the applicable maximum speed limit or (ii) in excess of eighty miles per hour regardless of the applicable maximum speed limit.
We at the Gordon Law Firm understand that facing a Virginia Reckless Driving charge can be challenging. That’s why we guide you through the process with gentleness and knowledge. If you have a pending reckless driving charge in Fairfax, Prince William or Loudoun County, please give us a call for your FREE consultation at 703-218-8416 or toll-free at 800-591-6682.