Racing
Racing.
A Virginia racing charge is a form of reckless driving in Virginia. A Virginia racing charge is a crime and can be a misdemeanor or felony.
Proof of Virginia Racing
Two or more motor vehicles on the highway in Virginia who engage in a race are guilty of reckless driving. Unless authorized by the owner or the property or his agent. Is guilty of reckless driving.
Consequences of Conviction in Virginia.
The serious consequences of this charge can include:
Increased insurance rate
Job opportunities lost
Security clearance may be difficult or impossible to obtain
This will also serve as a permanent criminal record
Criminal convictions can’t be expunged. It is important to contact an experienced Virginia Criminal lawyer to get the best results.
Penalties for Racing.
Misdemeanor Racing Charge
This is a class 1 misdemeanor. It is punishable by:
12 months in jail
Fine of $2,500
Mandatory driver’s license suspension for 6 months to 2 years.
6 DMV demerit points may be assigned
In addition the owner of the vehicle engaged in the race can also have his car seized and forfeit.
Revocation of license for the 4th conviction of certain offenses can result in a driver’s license revocation for 5 years. (Va. Code §46.2-394).
Felony Racing Charge (Va. Code §46.2-865.1)
Any person who while engaging in a race violation of §46.2-865 in a manner so gross, wanton and culpable as to show a reckless disregard for human life that results in serious bodily injury is guilty of a Class 6 felony. If the conduct causes the death of another person is guilty of a felony punishable by a term of imprisonment not less than 1 year nor more than 20 years. One year of which shall be mandatory minimum term of imprisonment.
Aiding or Abetting Race.
(Va. Code §46.2-866)
It is a class 1 misdemeanor to aid or abet a race in Virginia. This carries a jail sentence up to 12 months, a fine of up to $2,500.
Seizure of Motor Vehicle
§ 46.2-867. Racing; seizure of motor vehicle.
If the owner of a motor vehicle (i) is convicted of racing such vehicle in a prearranged, organized, and planned speed competition in violation of § 46.2-865, (ii) is present in the vehicle which is being operated by another in violation of § 46.2-865, and knowingly consents to the racing, or (iii) is convicted of a violation of § 46.2-865.1, the vehicle shall be seized and shall be forfeited to the Commonwealth, and upon being condemned as forfeited in proceedings under Chapter 22.1 (§ 19.2-386.1 et seq.) of Title 19.2, the proceeds of sale shall be disposed of according to law. Such sections shall apply mutatis mutandis..