Safety Features Don't Protect You From a Reckless Driving Charge

Advances in technology have made the newest model vehicles safer than ever before, but modern safety features don't eliminate the need for attentive driving. No matter how many safety features your vehicle has, it is ultimately your responsibility to avoid behaviors that fall under the domain of Virginia's reckless driving law.

What Happens When Safety Features Malfunction

Some examples of the safety features found in modern vehicles include:

• Lane departure warnings that alert drivers to when they are drifting into another lane without signaling
• Blind spot monitoring that notifies drivers when a vehicle or pedestrian is in their blind spot
• Collision avoidance technology that alerts you to a slow or stopped vehicle and/or automatically applies the brakes
• Onboard navigation systems that help you find your way around in an unfamiliar area

In the vast majority of cases, these safety features work as intended. Unfortunately, just as with any other form of technology, malfunctions can occasionally occur. This is why drivers must continually remain alert and focused while on the road.

If you are involved in an accident caused by malfunctioning safety equipment in your vehicle, the malfunction isn't a valid defense against a reckless driving charge.  However, a malfunction may entitle you to pursue compensation for accident-related expenses in a product liability claim against the manufacturer of your vehicle or the specific defective component. A product liability claim can provide compensation for property damage, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering related to the accident.

The Value of Obtaining Skilled Legal Representation

Since reckless driving is considered a criminal offense under Virginia law, you face hefty fines, the possibility of jail time, and a license suspension if convicted. You'll also be left with a criminal record that can affect employment opportunities, postsecondary education, military service, and more.