Virginia Code § 46.2-862 – Reckless Driving by Speed
Virginia Code § 46.2-862 makes driving at certain speeds a criminal reckless driving offense in Virginia. A motorist may be charged for traveling 20 MPH or more above the applicable maximum speed limit or for traveling faster than 85 MPH, regardless of the posted speed limit. Unlike Virginia’s general reckless driving statute, § 46.2-862 does not require proof of dangerous driving maneuvers, an accident, or an injury. A conviction is ordinarily a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying potential jail time, fines, driver’s license suspension, DMV demerit points, and a criminal record. This guide explains both statutory speed thresholds, the elements the Commonwealth must prove, the potential consequences, and the possible outcomes of a charge under § 46.2-862.
Virginia Code § 46.2-862 Reckless Driving Guide
What Does Virginia Code § 46.2-862 Prohibit?
Virginia Code § 46.2-862 establishes two independent speed thresholds that constitute reckless driving on Virginia highways. A motorist who satisfies either threshold may be convicted of criminal reckless driving even when no other dangerous driving behavior is alleged.
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The Two Statutory Speed Thresholds
Virginia Code § 46.2-862 provides that a person is guilty of reckless driving when operating a motor vehicle on the highways in the Commonwealth:
- At a speed of 20 MPH or more above the applicable maximum speed limit; or
- At a speed exceeding 85 MPH, regardless of the applicable maximum speed limit.
These are separate grounds for a criminal reckless driving charge.
The Commonwealth does not have to prove that both thresholds were exceeded.
Virginia Code § 46.2-862(i)
The first statutory provision applies when the driver’s speed is at least 20 MPH above the applicable maximum speed limit.
For example, a motorist traveling 75 MPH in a 55 MPH zone satisfies this provision.
The driver does not have to be traveling faster than 85 MPH.
Virginia Code § 46.2-862(ii)
The second statutory provision applies when the driver’s speed exceeds 85 MPH.
For example, a motorist traveling 86 MPH in a 70 MPH zone satisfies this provision even though the speed is only 16 MPH above the posted limit.
The statute does not require an additional finding that the driver exceeded the limit by 20 MPH.
Is Speed Alone Enough for a Reckless Driving Conviction?
Yes.
Section 46.2-862 is specifically a reckless driving by speed statute.
If the Commonwealth proves that the motorist operated a vehicle on a Virginia highway at a speed meeting either statutory threshold, the offense may be established without separate evidence of aggressive driving, unsafe lane changes, or a collision.
The fact that the driver maintained control of the vehicle or did not endanger another motorist does not automatically defeat a charge under § 46.2-862.
How Is § 46.2-862 Different From General Reckless Driving?
Virginia Code § 46.2-852 addresses general reckless driving based on reckless vehicle operation or driving at a speed or in a manner that endangers life, limb, or property.
Section 46.2-862 instead establishes specific numerical speed thresholds.
These are different statutory offenses with different elements.
A motorist charged under § 46.2-862 should therefore focus first on whether the Commonwealth can establish the speed and other elements required by that statute.
Reckless Driving for Traveling 20 MPH or More Over the Speed Limit
The first threshold under Virginia Code § 46.2-862 makes it reckless driving to operate a motor vehicle 20 MPH or more above the applicable maximum speed limit.
The statute applies regardless of whether the driver’s speed exceeds 85 MPH.
Exactly 20 MPH Over the Limit Is Reckless Driving
The statute uses the phrase “20 miles per hour or more in excess of the applicable maximum speed limit.”
Consequently, driving exactly 20 MPH above the limit satisfies this provision.
For example, a motorist traveling 55 MPH in a 35 MPH zone may be charged with reckless driving under § 46.2-862.
The driver does not receive an additional allowance before the speed becomes criminal reckless driving.
Examples of the 20-MPH-Over Threshold
| Speed Limit | Alleged Speed | Result Under § 46.2-862 |
|---|---|---|
| 25 MPH | 45 MPH | Reckless driving — 20 MPH over |
| 35 MPH | 55 MPH | Reckless driving — 20 MPH over |
| 45 MPH | 65 MPH | Reckless driving — 20 MPH over |
| 55 MPH | 75 MPH | Reckless driving — 20 MPH over |
| 65 MPH | 85 MPH | Reckless driving — 20 MPH over |
| 70 MPH | 90 MPH | Reckless driving — both speed thresholds |
Each example satisfies the first statutory threshold because the alleged speed is at least 20 MPH above the applicable limit.
What About Driving 19 MPH Over the Speed Limit?
Driving 19 MPH above the applicable maximum speed limit does not satisfy the first threshold under § 46.2-862.
However, it may still satisfy the second threshold if the driver’s speed exceeds 85 MPH.
For example, driving 89 MPH in a 70 MPH zone is 19 MPH over the limit but still constitutes reckless driving under the separate provision for speeds faster than 85 MPH.
Other reckless driving statutes may also apply when supported by the driving conduct and circumstances.
Does the Type of Road Matter?
Section 46.2-862 applies to operating a motor vehicle on highways within Virginia.
The statute is not limited to interstate highways.
A motorist may be charged on qualifying city streets, county roads, state highways, or interstate highways when the required speed threshold is established.
The applicable maximum speed limit is an essential consideration when the Commonwealth relies on the 20-MPH-over provision.
What if the Speed Limit Was Different From What the Driver Believed?
A motorist may misunderstand the applicable speed limit or fail to recognize a change in the posted limit.
However, an incorrect belief about the limit does not automatically excuse a violation.
When the charge relies on the 20-MPH-over provision, the Commonwealth must establish the applicable maximum speed limit and sufficient evidence of the defendant’s speed.
Questions concerning the correct limit, signage, location, or speed measurement may therefore be relevant.
Reckless Driving for Traveling Faster Than 85 MPH
The second threshold under § 46.2-862 makes it reckless driving to operate a motor vehicle faster than 85 MPH, regardless of the applicable maximum speed limit.
This provision can apply even when the motorist is traveling fewer than 20 MPH above the posted limit.
Exactly 85 MPH Versus Faster Than 85 MPH
The statutory language is “in excess of 85 miles per hour.”
Therefore, driving exactly 85 MPH does not satisfy the second threshold.
Driving 86 MPH or faster satisfies that provision.
However, exactly 85 MPH may still constitute reckless driving under the first threshold if the motorist is traveling at least 20 MPH above the applicable speed limit.
Examples Involving the 85 MPH Threshold
| Alleged Speed | Speed Limit | Result Under § 46.2-862 |
|---|---|---|
| 85 MPH | 70 MPH | Neither speed threshold satisfied |
| 85 MPH | 65 MPH | Reckless driving — 20 MPH over |
| 86 MPH | 70 MPH | Reckless driving — faster than 85 MPH |
| 90 MPH | 70 MPH | Reckless driving — both thresholds |
These examples illustrate the statute’s two alternative grounds for reckless driving.
They do not determine the sentence that a court would impose after a conviction.
Does the Posted Limit Matter Above 85 MPH?
A motorist may be convicted under the second threshold regardless of the posted maximum speed limit.
However, the applicable speed limit and the amount by which it was exceeded may remain relevant to the circumstances of the offense and the court’s sentencing determination.
The statute establishes the criminal classification, but it does not require every conviction involving a speed above 85 MPH to receive the same sentence.
Where Can I Find More Information About Higher-Speed Charges?
This guide explains the complete statutory framework of § 46.2-862.
For a more detailed discussion of motorists charged at 86, 90, 95, 100 MPH, or faster, including jail exposure and higher-speed consequences, see our Virginia Reckless Driving Over 85 MPH Guide.
Criminal Penalties and Consequences Under Virginia Code § 46.2-862
A conviction under § 46.2-862 is ordinarily a Class 1 misdemeanor under Virginia Code § 46.2-868.
It is a criminal conviction, not merely a traffic infraction carrying a fine and DMV points.
Class 1 Misdemeanor Penalties
Under Virginia Code §§ 46.2-868 and 18.2-11, the ordinary penalties for reckless driving by speed include:
- Up to 12 months in jail
- A fine of up to $2,500
- Both jail and a fine
- Applicable court costs
- Possible driver’s license suspension or other authorized driving restrictions
These are maximum authorized misdemeanor penalties.
The statute does not impose an automatic active jail sentence simply because a motorist satisfies either speed threshold.
The actual outcome depends on the circumstances and the court’s determination.
Six Virginia DMV Demerit Points
Virginia DMV classifies reckless driving by excessive speed as a six-demerit-point offense.
This classification applies to convictions based on driving 20 MPH or more above the applicable limit and convictions based on driving faster than 85 MPH.
DMV lists an 11-year driving-record retention period for these reckless driving convictions.
The six demerit points do not remain active for the full 11 years. The demerit-point assessment and the period during which the conviction remains on the driving record are separate matters.
A Criminal Record
A conviction under § 46.2-862 is ordinarily a criminal misdemeanor conviction.
Depending on applicable laws and reporting practices, the conviction may appear in criminal court records, background investigations, and criminal history searches.
Certain qualifying criminal convictions may eventually be eligible for sealing under Virginia law.
However, a conviction is not automatically removed from a criminal record simply because the defendant pays the fine, completes the sentence, or satisfies court requirements.
Automobile Insurance Consequences
An automobile insurer may discover a reckless driving conviction through driving-record information.
A conviction may result in higher premiums, different underwriting treatment, or other insurance consequences.
The actual effect depends on the insurer, the driver’s record, and other relevant circumstances.
No particular percentage increase applies automatically to every reckless driving conviction.
Employment and Professional Licensing
A criminal reckless driving conviction may affect individuals whose employment involves driving or requires an acceptable driving record.
Employers, professional licensing organizations, and government agencies may also consider criminal convictions when evaluating applicants or existing employees.
The effect varies depending on the profession, employer, applicable standards, and individual circumstances.
Out-of-State Drivers
A person licensed in another state may be convicted of criminal reckless driving under Virginia Code § 46.2-862.
The Virginia criminal conviction and potential insurance consequences remain important even if the motorist lives elsewhere.
The home state’s treatment of the conviction, including any points or licensing consequences, depends on that state’s laws and reporting procedures.
Can Reckless Driving Under § 46.2-862 Become a Felony?
The ordinary offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
However, Virginia Code § 46.2-868(B) establishes a Class 6 felony when the driver committed reckless driving while operating without a valid license because of a suspension or revocation for a moving violation and, as the sole and proximate result of the reckless driving, caused another person’s death.
Simply exceeding either statutory speed threshold does not automatically make the offense a felony.
Driver’s License Suspension and Intelligent Speed Assistance Under § 46.2-862
A conviction for reckless driving by speed may affect a motorist’s driving privileges even when the court does not impose active jail time.
Virginia Code § 46.2-393 addresses license suspension and other authorized driving restrictions following convictions under § 46.2-862.
Ordinary Driver’s License Suspension
Under § 46.2-393(A), a court may suspend a Virginia-issued driver’s license following a reckless driving conviction under § 46.2-862.
The authorized suspension period is:
- Not less than 60 days; and
- Not more than six months.
For Virginia-licensed motorists, suspension is discretionary rather than automatic upon every conviction.
For a nonresident or person who has not obtained a license required by Virginia law, § 46.2-393(A) separately provides for a prohibition against driving a motor vehicle in Virginia for 60 days to six months following conviction.
Restricted Driving Privileges
Virginia Code § 46.2-393(B) authorizes a court, in its discretion and for good cause shown, to grant restricted driving privileges for qualifying purposes.
A restricted permit may authorize certain driving during a suspension, subject to the restrictions imposed by the court.
Restricted privileges are not automatically available in every case.
The law also restricts the use of commercial motor vehicles under these provisions.
Virginia’s Intelligent Speed Assistance Program
Effective July 1, 2026, Virginia law provides an Intelligent Speed Assistance alternative for certain reckless driving convictions.
Under § 46.2-393(C), the court may, in its discretion and for good cause shown, require a person convicted under § 46.2-862 to enroll in the Intelligent Speed Assistance Program instead of suspending the person’s driver’s license.
The authorized enrollment period is 60 days to six months.
The program involves approved vehicle technology intended to restrict driving above applicable speed limits.
Special Rule for Driving Faster Than 100 MPH
Section 46.2-393(C) establishes a specific requirement when a driver is convicted under § 46.2-862 and found to have been driving faster than 100 MPH.
In that situation, the court must order enrollment in the Intelligent Speed Assistance Program for the statutory period unless the court orders driver’s license suspension under subsection A instead.
The provision does not automatically require enrollment when the driver is convicted of traveling exactly 100 MPH.
The court’s authorized alternatives and the particular circumstances determine the result.
Does Intelligent Speed Assistance Eliminate the Criminal Conviction?
No.
Enrollment in the program addresses driving privileges.
It does not automatically remove the criminal conviction, eliminate the authorized fine, or prevent the court from imposing other lawful penalties.
The criminal offense and the consequences affecting driving privileges are related but distinct issues.
What Must the Commonwealth Prove Under Virginia Code § 46.2-862?
A summons under § 46.2-862 is an accusation rather than proof that the defendant committed reckless driving. In a contested criminal trial, the Commonwealth must establish the required statutory elements beyond a reasonable doubt.
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Proof of the Alleged Speed
The Commonwealth must establish that the defendant operated a motor vehicle on a Virginia highway at a speed satisfying at least one of the statutory thresholds.
When the charge relies on driving 20 MPH or more above the applicable maximum speed limit, the evidence must also establish the applicable limit.
When the charge relies on driving faster than 85 MPH, the prosecution must establish a speed exceeding that numerical threshold.
The Commonwealth does not have to prove that the driver was simultaneously violating both provisions.
RADAR and LIDAR Evidence
Police officers frequently use RADAR or LIDAR devices to measure vehicle speed.
The Commonwealth may offer testimony concerning the officer’s observations, the speed reading, and the method used to identify the defendant’s vehicle.
The operation, testing, calibration, and applicable evidentiary requirements for the equipment may become relevant to a contested prosecution.
A speed reading is evidence that the court evaluates under the applicable law.
Pacing and Other Speed Measurement Methods
An officer may also estimate or measure speed by pacing another vehicle with a patrol car.
Other legally sufficient methods may be used when supported by admissible evidence.
The court may consider the measurement method, the circumstances of the observation, and the reliability of the evidence.
Different methods raise different factual and evidentiary considerations.
Speed Measurement and Calibration Records
Records concerning the accuracy and testing of speed measurement equipment may be important in a contested case.
Virginia law contains evidentiary provisions addressing certain speed-measurement methods and their supporting records.
The admissibility and sufficiency of the Commonwealth’s evidence depend on the applicable requirements and the circumstances.
An alleged testing or calibration problem does not automatically mean that every reckless driving by speed charge must be dismissed.
What if the Vehicle’s Speedometer Was Inaccurate?
A driver may discover that the vehicle’s speedometer does not display speed accurately.
A documented speedometer calibration may provide information about the difference between the indicated speed and the vehicle’s actual speed.
However, a speedometer calibration does not automatically disprove a police speed measurement.
Its significance depends on the specific facts and legal issues.
Does the Commonwealth Have to Prove Dangerous Driving?
No.
When a charge is brought under § 46.2-862, the statutory speed thresholds establish the conduct prohibited by that section.
The Commonwealth does not have to prove a collision, unsafe lane change, loss of vehicle control, or another independent dangerous maneuver.
The alleged speed, however, must be established by legally sufficient evidence.
Are Traffic and Road Conditions Relevant?
They may be relevant to the circumstances of the alleged offense and sentencing.
However, § 46.2-862 does not require the Commonwealth to prove that traffic or weather conditions made the driving dangerous.
The numerical speed thresholds are the central elements of this statute.
A driver’s favorable road conditions or lack of other traffic does not automatically establish a defense when the prohibited speed is proved.
For more information about evidentiary issues and possible defenses, see our Virginia Reckless Driving Defenses and Reductions Guide.
Can a Virginia Code § 46.2-862 Charge Be Reduced or Dismissed?
A criminal summons under § 46.2-862 does not mean that a conviction is inevitable.
The outcome depends on the evidence, the applicable law, the driver’s history, and the circumstances of the case.
Acquittal or Dismissal
A defendant may be acquitted when the Commonwealth fails to establish the criminal offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
A charge may also be dismissed when another legally sufficient basis exists.
Issues concerning the alleged speed, the applicable maximum speed limit, the measurement evidence, or other statutory elements may be relevant.
A favorable driving record alone does not guarantee dismissal.
Reduction to an Ordinary Speeding Infraction
Depending on the evidence, circumstances, and applicable procedure, a charge under § 46.2-862 may sometimes be reduced to a noncriminal speeding offense.
An ordinary speeding infraction generally carries different consequences from a criminal reckless driving conviction.
A reduced speeding charge may still result in fines, court costs, and DMV demerit points.
The possibility of a reduction depends on the individual case.
For a more detailed discussion of the distinction between ordinary speeding violations and criminal reckless driving, see our Virginia Reckless Driving by Speed and Speeding Ticket Guide.
Reduction to Improper Driving
Virginia Code § 46.2-869 permits a reckless driving charge to be reduced to improper driving under qualifying circumstances.
Improper driving is a traffic infraction rather than a criminal misdemeanor.
The statute authorizes a fine of up to $500.
The court may find improper driving when the degree of culpability is slight, and the Commonwealth’s attorney may reduce the charge before the court’s decision.
A reduction to improper driving is not automatic.
Other Possible Court Outcomes
Other legally authorized dispositions may be available depending on the evidence and the circumstances.
The court may consider relevant mitigating information, prior driving history, and other legally appropriate factors.
However, a person charged under § 46.2-862 should not assume that an offense will be dismissed or reduced simply because the motorist was cooperative, had no accident, or has never previously been charged with reckless driving.
Why Statutory Thresholds Matter to the Outcome
The exact speed and the applicable speed limit may become especially important when the prosecution relies on a speed near one of the statutory thresholds.
For example, a difference between 19 MPH and 20 MPH above the applicable limit may determine whether the first provision of § 46.2-862 applies.
Likewise, a difference between exactly 85 MPH and faster than 85 MPH may determine whether the second provision applies.
The evidence and the statute must be evaluated together.
What Happens After Receiving a § 46.2-862 Reckless Driving Summons?
A summons under Virginia Code § 46.2-862 alleges a criminal reckless driving offense.
It should not be treated as an ordinary prepaid speeding ticket.
Review the Summons
The Virginia Uniform Summons generally identifies the alleged offense, the applicable Virginia Code section, the court, and the scheduled hearing date.
A motorist should confirm the alleged speed and the applicable speed limit.
That information may help identify which statutory threshold is involved.
Understand the Court Appearance Requirements
Reckless driving cases involving adults are generally heard in Virginia General District Court.
Cases involving juvenile defendants are ordinarily handled in Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court.
Whether a defendant must personally appear or may proceed through an authorized procedure involving counsel depends on the circumstances and applicable court requirements.
The defendant should not assume that personal attendance is excused without confirmation.
Preserve Relevant Evidence
Depending on the circumstances, useful information may include:
- A copy of the summons
- The alleged speed and posted speed limit
- The exact location of the traffic stop
- Available video recordings
- Relevant photographs or roadway information
- Vehicle or speedometer records
- The driver’s prior driving record
- Other information concerning the speed allegation
Potentially relevant evidence should be preserved promptly.
Understand the Criminal Nature of the Charge
A criminal reckless driving charge may involve penalties that are unavailable for ordinary speeding infractions.
The Commonwealth must prove the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
The defendant may contest the evidence or seek another legally authorized disposition.
Out-of-State Drivers
A person licensed outside Virginia may be prosecuted under § 46.2-862 for a violation occurring on a Virginia highway.
The criminal classification remains the same.
Home-state driving-record and licensing consequences depend on the applicable laws and reporting procedures.
The defendant should also confirm whether personal attendance is required for the scheduled hearing.
Appeals and Further Court Proceedings
In appropriate circumstances, a defendant convicted in General District Court may pursue a de novo appeal to Circuit Court under Virginia law.
Appeal rights are subject to applicable procedures and deadlines.
The precise options depend on the case and the court’s disposition.
For more information about criminal summonses, court appearances, and related procedures, see our Virginia Reckless Driving Ticket and Court Process Guide.
Virginia Code § 46.2-862 – Frequently Asked Questions
What does Virginia Code § 46.2-862 mean on my summons?
Virginia Code § 46.2-862 is Virginia’s reckless driving by speed statute. It makes it criminal reckless driving to operate a motor vehicle on a Virginia highway either 20 MPH or more above the applicable maximum speed limit or faster than 85 MPH regardless of that limit. A conviction is ordinarily a Class 1 misdemeanor.
What is the difference between § 46.2-862(i) and § 46.2-862(ii)?
Section 46.2-862(i) applies when a driver travels 20 MPH or more above the applicable maximum speed limit. Section 46.2-862(ii) applies when a driver travels faster than 85 MPH regardless of the speed limit. These are independent thresholds, and the Commonwealth may establish reckless driving by proving either one.
Is driving exactly 20 MPH over the speed limit reckless driving?
Yes. Virginia Code § 46.2-862 makes driving 20 MPH or more above the applicable maximum speed limit reckless driving. For example, traveling 75 MPH in a 55 MPH zone satisfies the first statutory threshold. The Commonwealth does not have to prove that the motorist exceeded the limit by more than 20 MPH.
Is driving 19 MPH over the speed limit reckless driving in Virginia?
Not under the first speed threshold of § 46.2-862, which requires 20 MPH or more above the applicable limit. However, driving 19 MPH over the limit may still constitute reckless driving under the separate provision for speeds faster than 85 MPH. Other reckless driving statutes may also apply when supported by the circumstances.
Does driving exactly 85 MPH violate § 46.2-862?
Not necessarily. Driving exactly 85 MPH does not satisfy the statute’s provision for speeds exceeding 85 MPH. However, driving exactly 85 MPH in a 65 MPH zone is 20 MPH above the limit and satisfies the separate 20-MPH-over threshold. Driving 85 MPH in a 70 MPH zone does not satisfy either threshold based on speed alone.
Can I be convicted under § 46.2-862 without driving dangerously or causing an accident?
Yes. Section 46.2-862 establishes reckless driving based on specific numerical speed thresholds. When the Commonwealth proves that the defendant drove at a speed satisfying either threshold, it does not have to prove a separate dangerous maneuver, collision, injury, or loss of vehicle control.
Is Virginia Code § 46.2-862 a criminal misdemeanor?
Yes. A conviction under § 46.2-862 is ordinarily a Class 1 misdemeanor under Virginia Code § 46.2-868. It is a criminal conviction rather than an ordinary speeding infraction. A separate felony provision may apply in narrowly defined circumstances involving a death caused by reckless driving while the driver was operating without a valid license because of a suspension or revocation for a moving violation.
What are the maximum jail and fine penalties for § 46.2-862?
An ordinary Class 1 misdemeanor conviction under § 46.2-862 carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, or both. These are maximum authorized penalties, not mandatory sentences in every case. The actual punishment depends on the circumstances and applicable law.
How many Virginia DMV points does a § 46.2-862 conviction carry?
Virginia DMV assigns six demerit points for reckless driving by excessive speed under § 46.2-862. DMV lists an 11-year driving-record retention period for convictions involving driving 20 MPH or more above the posted limit or faster than 85 MPH. The demerit points and the 11-year record-retention period are separate consequences.
Can my license be suspended or can I be ordered into the Intelligent Speed Assistance Program?
Yes. Under § 46.2-393, a court may suspend a Virginia-issued driver’s license for 60 days to six months following a conviction under § 46.2-862. For qualifying convictions, the court may instead order enrollment in the Intelligent Speed Assistance Program for 60 days to six months. If the driver was found to have traveled faster than 100 MPH, enrollment is required unless the court orders license suspension instead. Separate provisions apply to nonresident driving privileges.
How does the Commonwealth prove the alleged speed under § 46.2-862?
The Commonwealth must prove the required elements of the criminal offense beyond a reasonable doubt. Speed evidence may include RADAR, LIDAR, pacing, officer testimony, or other admissible measurements and records. When the prosecution relies on the 20-MPH-over threshold, the applicable maximum speed limit must also be established. Testing, calibration, and evidentiary requirements may be relevant to a contested charge.
Can a § 46.2-862 charge be reduced to speeding or improper driving?
Yes, depending on the evidence, circumstances, and applicable law. A charge may sometimes be reduced to a noncriminal speeding infraction or improper driving. Virginia Code § 46.2-869 permits a reduction to improper driving under qualifying circumstances, including when the degree of culpability is slight. A charge may also be dismissed or result in acquittal when legally appropriate. No particular outcome is guaranteed.
For a broader overview of Virginia’s reckless driving statutes and related legal questions, see our Virginia Reckless Driving Guide.
Discuss a Virginia Code § 46.2-862 Reckless Driving Charge With an Attorney
A criminal reckless driving charge under § 46.2-862 can carry consequences extending beyond the immediate court sentence, including possible jail time, fines, DMV demerit points, license suspension, insurance consequences, and a criminal record. Our attorneys represent motorists charged with reckless driving by speed throughout Virginia. We evaluate the statutory speed thresholds, the Commonwealth’s evidence, the driver’s history, and the circumstances of each case. If you have been charged under Virginia Code § 46.2-862, learn more about representation from our Virginia reckless driving lawyers.
8/8/2024 | Updated 11/10/2026