Yes, a motorcyclist may be charged with the crime of reckless driving in Virginia.
The Virginia reckless driving statute refers to “…any person who drives a vehicle on any highway…” and thus is not limited to the drivers of automobiles and trucks. A motorcycle is a vehicle, a rider is a driver, and motorcyclists need to know how reckless driving is defined in Virginia and what to do if they are charged with this crime.
When a Rider May Be Charged With Reckless Driving
You may be charged with reckless driving—a criminal offense—if the police believe that you were:
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Speeding. Reckless driving speeding is defined as traveling over 85 mph or traveling 20 mph or more over the speed limit.
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Driving too fast for highway conditions.
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Operating your motorcycle in any way that endangered life, limb, or property.
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Driving a motorcycle that was out of control or that had faulty brakes.
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Passing another vehicle at the crest of a grade or curve with an obstructed view (unless there are two or more lanes going in your direction or you were on a one-way road).
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Passing two other vehicles (unless there are three or more lanes going in your direction or you were on a one-way road).
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Traveling two abreast in a single lane.
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Passing another vehicle at a railroad grade crossing or at certain intersections.
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Passing a stopped school bus.
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Failing to signal your intention to turn, slow down, or stop.
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Failing to yield the right of way.
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Racing another vehicle.
You may also be charged with reckless driving if you are found to be speeding or operating your bike in such a way as to endanger life, limb, or property on the driveway of a church, school, recreational facility, or business that is open to the public. Also on the property of an industrial establishment that provides parking or on a highway that is under construction.
What to Do If You are a Motorcycle Rider Charged With Reckless Driving
This is a charge that you need to take seriously. If you fail to take action, then you may be convicted of a crime. In addition to any jail time and fines that you face, there may be other serious consequences of having a criminal record. Accordingly, it is important to take control of the situation as soon as you receive a ticket.
Contact The Wilson Law Firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Learn about the charges against you and how we can help make sure that your rights are protected if you are a motorcyclist who has been accused of reckless driving in Virginia.
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