Speeding may seem like a minor infraction, but when it reaches the level of recklessness, Virginia takes it seriously.
Understanding the penalties for reckless speeding can help you avoid this type of traffic violation.
Understanding reckless speeding in Virginia
In Virginia, law enforcement can charge you with reckless speeding if you drive 20 miles per hour or more over the speed limit or over 85 miles per hour regardless of the speed limit. This is not a simple speeding ticket. Instead, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Reckless driving is a serious offense in Virginia and carries heavy penalties. Virginia law considers any act of reckless driving a risk to life, limb or property.
Penalties for reckless speeding
The penalties for reckless speeding in Virginia can be severe.
- Jail sentence. A conviction for this misdemeanor could lead to a jail sentence of up to 12 months.
- Fines. Being convicted on this criminal charge could cost you up to $2,500.
- License suspension. The court can also suspend your driving privileges for up to six months. This penalty can severely disrupt your daily life, making it difficult to get to work, school or other necessary destinations.
Another penalty for reckless speeding is the addition of six demerit points to your driving record. These points remain on your record for 11 years and can lead to higher insurance rates. If you accumulate too many points in a short period, you may face more suspensions of your driving privileges.
Reckless speeding in Virginia carries substantial penalties that can impact various aspects of your life. It is always best to adhere to speed limits and drive safely. Not only does this prevent you from incurring penalties, but it also keeps you and other road users safer.
