Unlike in other states, there are approximately 16 offenses that can result in a person being charged with reckless driving in Virginia. One vague provision that gives the police great leeway in arresting someone for reckless driving is driving recklessly or endangering others.
When Can Reckless Driving Be Charged for Driving Recklessly or Endangering Others?
Under Virginia Code §46.2-852, an individual can be charged with reckless driving for driving a vehicle on a highway recklessly or at a speed or manner that endangers another 
person's life, limb, or property. They can be charged with this crime no matter what the maximum speed limit is. A highway is broadly defined to include streets and alleys.
While this offense is often charged when there has been a motor vehicle accident, this is not the only reason a person could be charged with reckless driving under Virginia Code §46.2-852. Examples of driving behaviors that can constitute reckless driving under this law include:
- Driving too fast for weather conditions—even if the person is driving below the posted speed limit
- Drifting out of a lane
- Spinning their vehicle’s tires
- Tailgating another driver
- Weaving in and out of lanes of traffic
- Not obeying traffic signals or stop signs
- Driving the wrong way on a one-way road
Penalties for Reckless Driving for Endangering Others
Reckless driving for driving recklessly or endangering others is often charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia. However, if the danger to others was especially great or the individual was texting while driving, they could be charged with felony reckless driving
If someone is convicted of this crime for violating Virginia Code §46.2-852, they may face harsher penalties than a conviction for other reckless driving offenses because their driving put others in danger. Possible penalties for a misdemeanor conviction include:
- Jail sentence of up to 12 months
- Fine of up to $2,500
- Suspension of their driver’s license for six months
- Six demerit points on their driving record
Contact A Virginia Traffic Attorney For Help With your Charges
Were you charged with a reckless driving offense in Virginia? Our experienced reckless driving lawyers will mount an aggressive defense strategy for you that could result in the charges being dismissed or reduced to a less serious offense. Call us at 888-DUI-LWYR, start a live chat, or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation to learn more about how we can assist you.
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