How Many Points Is Reckless Driving in Virginia?
In Virginia, certain traffic violations result in “demerit points” against your driving record.
After you accumulate a certain number of points within a one-year or eighteen-month period, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can impose various penalties, including but not limited to suspending your driver’s license.
That’s a severe penalty. After all, without a driver’s license, you might experience issues getting to and from work or performing basic errands.
Contact a Virginia reckless driving attorney to discuss ways to lessen or avoid the points assessed against your driving record.
What Is Reckless Driving in Virginia?
Virginia defines reckless driving as the operation of a motor vehicle on any highway in a reckless manner or at a speed that endangers the life, limb, or property of another person.
Specifically, you can face reckless driving charges if you commit any of the following:
- Driving 20 MPH or more above the speed limit,
- Driving 85 MPH or faster,
- Passing an emergency vehicle,
- Passing a school bus,
- Drag racing,
- Passing at a railroad crossing,
- Passing in a no-passing zone,
- Failing to signal before a turn, or
- Driving too fast for conditions.
As you can see, reckless driving in Virginia can involve a wide range of different actions. In some cases, reckless driving charges arise in combination with other charges.
For example, a drunk driver might face DUI and reckless driving charges.
Consequences of Reckless Driving in Virginia
Virginia considers reckless driving a class one misdemeanor. A class one misdemeanor carries the possibility of up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
Additionally, the judge can suspend your license for up to six months upon conviction for reckless driving.
After conviction for reckless driving in Virginia, six points will be assessed against your Virginia driving record.
If you incur eighteen demerit points on your driving record within a one-year period, the DMV can suspend your driver’s license.
The DMV can order you to attend a driver improvement class if you only incur twelve points within one year.
Thus, two reckless driving convictions within one year can result in you running afoul of the DMV. You will also face license suspension if you accumulate 24 demerit points within a two year period.
Even though most people consider traffic charges minor, they can add up quickly and lead to serious issues for you in the long run.
Contact a Virginia Reckless Driving Attorney Today
Virginia’s demerit system can seriously impact drivers who receive multiple reckless driving convictions. We all want people to drive safely, but a few mistakes in driving shouldn’t ruin your life.
I am Andrew Flusche, an attorney with significant experience handling reckless driving cases in Virginia, representing thousands of accused drivers.
I have the knowledge and experience you need to fight for lesser charges. I tackles all of my his cases with a result-oriented approach, aiming for the outcome my his clients want.
When your driving privileges are at stake, you can’t afford to take chances. You want an attorney who is knowledgeable on local rules and understands the local court process.
Contact my office today to set up an initial consultation.
