Paullin Law Blog

What does "Reckless Driving" really mean?

Ask any driver about these two little words, and he or she can tell you that "Reckless Driving" is a phrase that no one wants to see stamped on his or her driving record. That said, how many of Virginia's 15 felony and misdemeanor reckless driving charges can the average driver name? We're not sure, but we imagine some of them might surprise you. Did you know, for example, that an officer can issue a ticket for reckless driving in a parking lot? Or for passing another vehicle on the crest of a hill? Here, dear driver, is a complete list of the violations eligible for reckless driving charges in the Commonwealth of Virginia. (The numbers in parentheses represent the number of years that each conviction will remain on your DMV record.)

• Speeding in excess of 80 mph (11 years)
• Speeding 20 mph or more above the posted speed limit (11 years)
• Racing (11 years)
• Passing or overtaking an emergency vehicle (11 years)
• Passing a school bus (11 years)
• Passing on the crest of a hill (11 years)
• Passing at a railroad crossing (11 years)
• Passing two vehicles abreast (11 years)
• Driving two vehicles abreast (11 years)
• Driving too fast for conditions (11 years)
• Failing to give a proper signal (11 years)
• Faulty brakes/improper control (11 years)
• Reckless driving on parking lots, etc. (11 years)
• Driving with an obstructed view (11 years)
• Generally reckless driving behavior (11 years)

This list, as well as information about other "six-point violations," is available on the Department of Motor Vehicles' website.

The information and materials on this web site are intended to be used for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Individuals should not act upon information provided on the site without seeking professional legal counsel, as situations and facts vary with each case. In addition, Paullin Law Firm does not endorse or sponsor any content accessed through links to other web sites. All statements and information are current as of the posted date.