Traffic Violations

Traffic Violations

Traffic violations in Virginia can have serious consequences, ranging from fines and points on your license to license suspension, increased insurance rates, and even jail time. Some offenses, such as reckless driving, are considered criminal charges, not just simple infractions. Understanding the law and your rights is crucial to minimizing the impact of a traffic ticket.

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Common Traffic Violations in Virginia

Virginia law categorizes traffic violations as either infractions, misdemeanors, or felonies, depending on the severity of the offense:

  • Speeding Violations: Exceeding the posted speed limit can result in fines, points on your driving record, and increased insurance premiums. Excessive speeding (20 mph over the limit or over 85 mph) can lead to reckless driving charges.
  • Reckless Driving (Class 1 Misdemeanor): Virginia treats reckless driving as a criminal offense. This includes:
    • Driving 20 mph over the speed limit or over 85 mph, regardless of the speed zone.
    • Aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating or excessive lane changing.
    • Failing to properly control a vehicle, driving too fast for road conditions, or engaging in street racing.
    • Punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine, and a six-month license suspension.
  • DUI & DWI (Driving Under the Influence): Driving with a BAC of 0.08% or higher (or lower for commercial drivers and minors) can result in license suspension, fines, and jail time.
  • Driving without a Valid License or insurance – Can lead to fines, vehicle impoundment, and even criminal charges.
  • Failure to Obey Traffic Signals & Stop Signs – Running a red light or stop sign can add points to your record and lead to fines.
  • Hit and Run (Leaving the Scene of an Accident): Failing to stop after an accident involving injury or property damage can lead to felony charges.
  • Vehicle Equipment Violations: Driving with expired or missing registration, broken headlights or taillights, or a missing license plate can result in fines and possible citations.

 Consequences of Traffic Violations

Depending on the severity of the violation, you may face:

  • Fines and court costs
  • Demerit points on your driving record, leading to license suspension if you accumulate too many
  • Increased insurance premiums
  • Jail time for serious offenses like reckless driving or DUI
  • License suspension or revocation for repeat offenses

For first-time offenders, there may be options to reduce charges or complete driver improvement programs to avoid harsher penalties.

What If You Are an Immigrant?

Traffic violations—especially reckless driving, DUI, and hit-and-run charges—can have serious immigration consequences. Criminal traffic offenses can:

  • Affect visa renewals or green card applications
  • Lead to removal (deportation) proceedings in some cases
  • Impact employment-based immigration status

Having an attorney who understands both traffic and immigration law can help protect your record and status in the U.S.

How We Can Help

At Seva Law, we fight to protect your driving privileges, record, and future by:

  • Challenging the evidence and seeking reductions or dismissals
  • Negotiating for lower penalties and alternative sentencing
  • Defending against reckless driving and DUI charges
  • Helping immigrants avoid legal consequences that could impact their status

If you’ve received a traffic violation, don’t just pay the fine—reach out to us for a consultation to explore your options.

Seva Law – Protecting Your Rights, Your Record, and Your Future.

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