Virginia boosts speed limits, but 80 is still reckless!

Virginia boosts speed limits, but 80 is still reckless!

It’s been over a year since the Virginia General Assembly voted to raise Virginia’s maximum speed limit from 65 miles per hour to 70 mph in February 2010. The measure passed overwhelmingly in the House and Senate, and many drivers have enjoyed the adjusted limits in rural areas of the state, including parts of I-95 and I-64.

However, it’s important for Virginia drivers (and our visitors) to be aware that the change in local speed limits does not affect Virginia’s regulations for reckless driving convictions.

Virginia’s motor vehicle laws state that a driver may be charged with reckless driving if he or she is caught speeding in excess of 20 miles per hour over the speed limit. (Driving 65 mph in a 45 mph zone, for example.) The law also states that driving in excess of 80 mph is considered reckless driving, regardless of the posted speed limit. The lesson for drivers: although speed limits in some areas have been raised to 70 mph, the 80 mph reckless driving cap has not changed.

Individuals caught traveling over 80 mph will still be charged with reckless driving in the state of Virginia. In addition, drivers should be aware that the “20 mph over the speed limit” rule does not apply in the new 70 mph zones, since the reckless cap is only 10 miles per hour over the newly raised limit.

For a complete list of violations resulting in a reckless driving charge in Virginia, click here. (Some might surprise you!) A reckless driving conviction can result in steep fines or even jail time. If you have been charged with reckless driving or another traffic violation, contact the Paullin Law Firm and let our experienced attorneys help protect your driving record and your finances. Call 804-464-3765 for a consultation.

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.



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