Virginia follows a uniform demerit point system to assign points for each moving violation that a driver is convicted of. However, the number of demerit points on their license will depend on the severity of their infraction and whether it was a repeat offense or not.
While most of these violations are minor traffic infractions, there are also cases that are more serious and are punishable by law as criminal offenses. In this blog, we will explore three common causes of traffic fines in the state:
Speeding
Drivers must always obey traffic laws. In Virginia, the maximum speed limit for motorcycles and cars is 25mph for schools and residential areas, and 55mph for most highways. When someone drives over the speed limits, they risk the safety of the other cars on the road and the pedestrians in their vicinity.
To help establish road safety, a driver who is caught speeding by law enforcers will be given a speeding ticket, demerit points on their license and a fine ranging from $6 per mile over the limit or up to $2,500 for cases of reckless driving by speed.
Texting while driving
One of the most common forms of distracted driving in Virginia occurs when a driver texts while they are on the road. This illegal handheld device activity is a primary traffic offense in the state.
When someone receives a texting while driving violation, it can cost them a $125 fine for a first offense and a $250 fine for any repeated offenses.
Driving under the influence (DUI)
Virginia has some of the strictest drunk driving laws in the country. When a driver faces a first offense DUI conviction, they must pay a mandatory $250 fine. Depending on their case, the court may also order a one-year revocation of their driver’s license.
Since DUI is a serious public safety issue, a DUI arrest may also lead to a criminal record.
Cautious driving can protect everybody
By understanding Virginia’s traffic laws and adhering to them, you can drive with better caution and help protect everybody’s safety while out on the road.
