Reckless driving is a Class I misdemeanor. The crime is based on the dangerous driving itself and does not depend upon the result, unlike careless driving. Careless DrivingĪccording to Virginia law, reckless driving occurs when a person drives in any way, including speeding, that endangers the life, limb, or property of another.
CODE OF VA TEXTING WHILE DRIVING DRIVER
However, the driver could face other charges like reckless driving. Without proof of a serious bodily injury to a vulnerable road user, the accused cannot face careless driving charges. Similarly, a person facing reckless driving charges cannot also face careless driving charges.
Under the law, a vulnerable road user is anyone who is: The statute defines vulnerable road users broadly. The vulnerable road user must be on the road legally at the time of the incident. However, the law contains two additional elements, or components, that the Commonwealth must prove.Ĭareless driving or distracted driving must cause a serious bodily injury to a person defined as a “vulnerable road user.”
In Virginia, Class I misdemeanors carry a maximum one-year jail sentence and a fine up to $2,500.Ĭareless driving in Virginia refers to driving without exercising caution or driving while distracted, such as texting while driving. Virginia’s traffic law defines careless driving as a Class I misdemeanor. Facing Careless or Reckless Driving Charges in Virginia? Contact Us Today Is Careless Driving the Same as Reckless Driving?Ĭareless driving under Virginia law refers to a specific crime and not merely driving negligently.
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