Common Virginia Traffic Violations and How to Avoid Them

Every year, hundreds of thousands of Virginia drivers receive traffic tickets for violations ranging from minor infractions to serious misdemeanors. While some tickets result from momentary lapses in judgment, many could be avoided with better awareness of Virginia's traffic laws and common enforcement patterns.

Understanding which violations are most common in Virginia—and more importantly, how to avoid them—can save you from expensive fines, demerit points on your driving record, insurance rate increases, and potential license suspension. Whether you're a new driver, recently moved to Virginia, or simply want to refresh your knowledge, this comprehensive guide covers the traffic violations Virginia law enforcement most frequently cites and provides practical strategies to keep your record clean.

Why Virginia Traffic Laws Are Strictly Enforced

Virginia takes traffic safety seriously, with some of the strictest traffic laws and enforcement in the United States.

Virginia's Reputation for Enforcement

Strict Standards:

Virginia is known nationally for:

• Lower speed tolerance than many states

• Aggressive reckless driving statutes

• Significant penalties for violations

• Active state and local law enforcement

• Strict HOV lane enforcement

• Comprehensive automated enforcement (cameras)

Why It Matters:

Virginia's approach reflects:

• Commitment to reducing traffic fatalities

• High traffic volume in major corridors

• Focus on aggressive and dangerous driving

• Revenue generation through fines

• Strong prosecution of violations

For drivers, this means you can't rely on enforcement leniency—knowing and following Virginia traffic laws is essential.

The Financial Cost of Violations

Beyond the Fine:

Traffic violations cost more than just the ticket price:

Immediate Costs:

• Base fine ($50-$2,500 depending on violation)

• Court costs ($61-$91 typically)

• Processing fees

• Attorney fees if you hire representation

Long-Term Costs:

• Insurance premium increases (10-50%)

• Increased rates for 3-5 years

• Loss of insurance discounts

• Potential job impacts (if driving required)

Example Total Cost: A single speeding ticket can ultimately cost $1,000-$3,000+ when including all direct and indirect expenses over several years.

Top 10 Most Common Virginia Traffic Violations

Let's examine the violations Virginia drivers receive most frequently and how to avoid each one.

1. Speeding

The Most Common Violation:

Speeding accounts for the largest percentage of all traffic tickets in Virginia.

Types of Speeding Violations

Basic Speeding:

• 1-9 mph over limit: 3 demerit points

• 10-19 mph over limit: 4 demerit points

• 20+ mph over limit: 6 demerit points (often charged as reckless driving)

Reckless Driving by Speed:

• 20+ mph over posted limit

• Over 85 mph regardless of limit (yes, even on interstates where limit is 70)

• Class 1 misdemeanor criminal offense

• Up to 12 months in jail and $2,500 fine

• 6 demerit points

Common Speeding Scenarios

Highway Driving:

• Interstate speeds of 75-80 mph in 70 mph zones

• Not adjusting for lower speed zones

• Accelerating too quickly after passing

• Keeping up with traffic flow (not a valid defense)

Residential Areas:

• Not noticing speed limit reductions

• School zone violations (25 mph when children present)

• Neighborhood streets (typically 25 mph)

Speed Traps:

• Construction zones with reduced limits

• Speed limit changes on same road

• Bottom of hills where speed naturally increases

• High enforcement areas known to locals

How to Avoid Speeding Tickets

Practical Strategies:

Use Cruise Control:

• Set at or below speed limit on highways

• Prevents gradual speed increases

• Maintains consistent safe speed

• Reduces fatigue on long drives

Watch for Speed Limit Changes:

• Pay attention to all posted signs

• Note common reduction areas (curves, intersections, towns)

• Slow down before entering reduced zones

• Use GPS apps that show current speed limits

Know High Enforcement Areas:

• School zones during active hours

• Construction zones

• Interstate HOV lanes

• End-of-month enforcement increases

• Holiday weekends

Leave Early:

• Rushing causes speeding

• Buffer time eliminates pressure

• Arrive safely rather than quickly

• Plan for traffic and delays

Check Your Speedometer Regularly:

• Glance every 30 seconds or so

• Speed creeps up without awareness

• Especially important on downhills

• Verify your actual speed vs. traffic flow

The 5-Under Rule:

• Drive 5 mph under the speed limit when in doubt

• Safer margin for error

• Accounts for speedometer inaccuracy

• Less likely to trigger enforcement

2. Reckless Driving

Virginia's Notorious Criminal Traffic Offense:

Reckless driving in Virginia is a Class 1 misdemeanor—the same level as DUI.

What Constitutes Reckless Driving

Multiple Definitions:

Virginia law defines reckless driving in many ways:

Excessive Speed:

• 20+ mph over posted limit

• Over 85 mph anywhere in Virginia

• Most common reckless driving charge

Dangerous Behavior:

• Passing stopped school bus

• Racing

• Passing at railroad crossing

• Passing on curve or crest of hill

• Driving with obstructed view

• Failure to signal

• Overloaded vehicle affecting control

• Improper brakes

• Driving too fast for conditions

General Reckless:

• Driving endangering life, limb, or property

• Officer's discretion based on circumstances

Consequences of Reckless Driving

Serious Penalties:

• Criminal conviction on your record

• Up to 12 months in jail

• Fine up to $2,500

• 6 demerit points

• License suspension (possible)

• Mandatory insurance increases (SR-22 may be required)

• Employment consequences

• Professional license impacts

How to Avoid Reckless Driving

Prevention Strategies:

Speed Management:

• Never exceed 85 mph in Virginia, period

• Stay well under 20 mph over any posted limit

• Slow down in construction zones

• Adjust for weather and traffic conditions

Safe Passing:

• Never pass on hills or curves

• Wait for clear, legal passing zones

• Pass school buses only when legally permitted

• Signal all lane changes and passes

Vehicle Maintenance:

• Keep brakes in good working order

• Maintain clear windshield and windows

• Don't overload vehicle beyond capacity

• Fix any mechanical issues promptly

Defensive Driving:

• Slow down in bad weather

• Increase following distances

• Avoid aggressive maneuvers

• Stay calm in traffic

Never Race:

• Don't engage with aggressive drivers

• Resist temptation to "race" from lights

• Ignore challenges from other drivers

3. Following Too Closely (Tailgating)

A Dangerous and Common Violation:

Following too closely causes many rear-end collisions and frequently results in tickets.

Why It's Dangerous

Physics and Reality:

• Average reaction time: 1.5 seconds

• Stopping distances increase with speed

• Weather and road conditions affect braking

• Following vehicle can't see hazards ahead

• No room to maneuver in emergencies

Virginia Law on Following Distance

Legal Requirement:

Virginia Code § 46.2-816 requires drivers to maintain a "reasonable and prudent" following distance considering:

• Speed of vehicles

• Traffic conditions

• Road conditions

• Weather

Common Enforcement:

• Officer observes inadequate space

• After rear-end collision

• Aggressive driving situations

• Highway enforcement operations

How to Avoid Following Too Closely

Safe Following Distance:

Three-Second Rule:

• Pick fixed object ahead (sign, bridge, marker)

• When front vehicle passes it, begin counting

• You should reach it no sooner than "one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, one-thousand-three"

• Increase to 4-5 seconds in poor conditions

Extra Space When:

• Roads are wet, icy, or snow-covered

• Visibility is reduced (fog, rain, darkness)

• Following large vehicles blocking your view

• Driving in heavy traffic

• Following motorcycles

• Your vehicle is heavy or loaded

Be Patient:

• Don't tailgate to pressure slow drivers

• Pass legally when safe and possible

• Accept that some delays are unavoidable

• Arriving 2 minutes later beats a crash

4. Improper Lane Change

Failing to Signal or Check Blind Spots:

Lane change violations are common on Virginia's busy highways and result in frequent citations and crashes.

Common Lane Change Violations

Typical Mistakes:

No Signal:

• Changing lanes without signaling

• Insufficient signal time (must signal 50 feet before)

• Canceling signal before completing maneuver

Unsafe Changes:

• Cutting off other vehicles

• Not checking blind spots

• Changing across multiple lanes

• Changing in intersections

• Weaving through traffic

Crossing Solid Lines:

• Changing lanes where prohibited

• Crossing double white lines

• Illegal HOV lane entry/exit points

How to Avoid Improper Lane Changes

Proper Technique:

Signal Early:

• Activate turn signal at least 3-5 seconds before changing

• Keep signal on until maneuver is complete

• Signal even when "no one is around"

Check Everything:

• Mirrors first (rearview and side)

• Turn head to check blind spot

• Verify space is adequate and clear

• Ensure no vehicle is accelerating into space

One Lane at a Time:

• Change one lane, then stabilize

• Check again before next lane change

• Never sweep across multiple lanes

Don't Change in Intersections:

• Wait until fully through intersection

• Maintain lane through turns

• Plan lane position before reaching intersection

Respect Lane Markings:

• Never cross solid white lines

• Only change lanes where permitted

• Obey HOV lane entry/exit points

5. Running Red Lights and Stop Signs

Failure to Stop When Required:

Red light and stop sign violations are dangerous, frequently enforced, and often caught on camera.

Types of Stop Violations

Red Light Running:

• Entering intersection after light turns red

• Not stopping before right turn on red

• Stopping past stop line or in crosswalk

• Accelerating through yellow to beat red

Stop Sign Violations:

• Rolling stops instead of complete stop

• Not stopping at stop line

• Not stopping long enough (must pause completely)

• Treating stop sign as yield

Enforcement Methods

How You Get Caught:

Red Light Cameras:

• Automatic detection and ticketing

• Photo evidence of violation

• Mailed citation to registered owner

• Common in Northern Virginia, Hampton Roads

Officer Observation:

• Police witness violation

• Traffic enforcement operations

• Intersection monitoring

• Complaint-driven enforcement

How to Avoid Stop Violations

Safe Stopping Practices:

Come to Complete Stop:

• Wheels must stop moving completely

• Stop before stop line or crosswalk

• Count "one-thousand-one" while stopped

• Look left, right, left before proceeding

Don't Run Yellow Lights:

• Yellow means prepare to stop, not speed up

• If you can safely stop, do so

• Don't race through yellows

• Assume yellow will turn red

Right Turn on Red:

• Come to complete stop first

• Yield to pedestrians and traffic

• Check for "No Turn on Red" signs

• Proceed only when completely safe

Anticipate Light Changes:

• Watch traffic signals ahead

• Slow down as you approach stale green lights

• Be prepared to stop at any yellow

• Don't assume you'll make it through

6. Distracted Driving

Cell Phones and Other Distractions:

Distracted driving laws in Virginia have become increasingly strict.

Virginia's Distracted Driving Laws

Handheld Device Ban:

Virginia Code § 46.2-1078.1 prohibits:

• Holding cell phone while driving

• Texting or reading text messages

• Using phone for social media

• Watching videos

• Taking photos or videos

Exceptions:

• Using GPS/navigation (if mounted)

• Emergency calls to 911

• Lawfully parked or stopped

• Using hands-free technology

Penalties:

• First offense: $125 fine, 3 demerit points

• Second offense: $250 fine, 3 demerit points

• In highway work zones: Increased penalties

Other Distractions

Beyond Phones:

• Eating and drinking

• Adjusting radio or climate controls

• Reaching for objects

• Grooming (makeup, shaving)

• Reading (maps, documents)

• Dealing with children or pets

How to Avoid Distracted Driving Violations

Stay Focused:

Phone Management:

• Put phone in glove box or back seat

• Enable "Do Not Disturb While Driving"

• Use voice commands only

• Mount phone for GPS before departing

• Let passengers handle phone tasks

Prepare Before Driving:

• Set GPS destination before moving

• Adjust mirrors, seat, climate before driving

• Eat meals before or after driving

• Secure pets in carriers

• Put away distracting items

If You Must:

• Pull over completely to use phone

• Park legally and safely

• Complete task fully before driving

• Don't try to multitask while driving

7. Failure to Yield Right-of-Way

Not Yielding When Required:

Right-of-way violations cause many crashes and frequent citations.

Common Right-of-Way Situations

Four-Way Stops:

• First to arrive has right-of-way

• When simultaneous, rightmost vehicle goes first

• Proceeding out of turn causes violations

Uncontrolled Intersections:

• Vehicle on right has right-of-way

• Through traffic has priority over turning

• Must yield when entering roadway

Turning Left:

• Must yield to oncoming traffic

• Must yield to pedestrians in crosswalk

• Cannot block intersection while waiting

Merging:

• Merging traffic must yield to through traffic

• Yield to traffic already in roundabout

• Accelerate to match traffic speed when merging

Emergency Vehicles:

• Must pull right and stop for sirens/lights

• Resume only when emergency vehicle passes

• Never follow emergency vehicles closely

How to Avoid Right-of-Way Violations

Know the Rules:

At Intersections:

• Understand who goes first in each situation

• Make eye contact with other drivers

• Proceed only when clearly your turn

• Don't wave others through (causes confusion)

When Turning:

• Wait for clear gap in oncoming traffic

• Don't turn if you'll make others brake

• Accelerate promptly after turning

• Watch for pedestrians constantly

Emergency Vehicles:

• Pull right immediately when you hear sirens

• Stop completely until they pass

• Check that all emergency vehicles have passed

• Resume driving carefully

Be Predictable:

• Follow rules consistently

• Don't try to be "polite" by breaking rules

• Use signals to show your intentions

• Proceed confidently when you have right-of-way

8. HOV Lane Violations (Northern Virginia)

High-Occupancy Vehicle Lane Misuse:

Northern Virginia's HOV lanes have strict requirements and heavy enforcement.

HOV Requirements

I-66 Inside the Beltway:

• HOV-2+ (two or more occupants)

• Weekdays: Eastbound 6:30-9:00 AM, Westbound 4:00-6:30 PM

• Solo drivers must pay toll during HOV hours

• Very strict enforcement

I-395/I-95 Express Lanes:

• HOV-3+ (three or more occupants) during peak

• E-ZPass Flex required, set to HOV mode

• Different rules on different segments

• 24/7 operation with variable pricing

Enforcement and Penalties

How They Catch Violators:

• State police monitoring

• Dedicated enforcement officers

• High-tech cameras

• Surprise checkpoints

Penalties:

• $125-250 fine

• 3 demerit points

• Court costs

• Possible license suspension for repeat offenders

How to Avoid HOV Violations

Compliance:

Know the Requirements:

• Verify occupancy requirements for your route

• Understand time restrictions

• Know entry/exit points

• Stay updated on rule changes

Plan Accordingly:

• Don't use HOV lanes if you don't qualify

• Set up E-ZPass Flex correctly

• Switch to HOV mode only with required occupants

• Use non-HOV lanes during restricted hours

Carpool When Possible:

• Arrange carpools to meet requirements

• Legitimately qualify for HOV lanes

• Save time and money

• Better for environment

9. Expired Registration or Inspection

Vehicle Compliance Violations:

Keeping your vehicle properly registered and inspected is required by law.

Requirements

Vehicle Registration:

• Must be renewed annually

• Displays current month/year sticker

• Grace period: None (expired = violation)

• Penalty: Fine up to $250

Safety Inspection:

• Required annually

• Displays current inspection sticker

• Grace period: 4 months from expiration

• After grace period: $50 fine plus inspection cost

How to Avoid Registration/Inspection Violations

Stay Current:

Set Reminders:

• Calendar alerts 30 days before expiration

• DMV sends renewal notices by mail

• Don't wait until expiration date

Renew Promptly:

• Renew registration online, by mail, or in person

• Complete inspection during grace period

• Don't drive on expired documents

Address Issues Early:

• If vehicle won't pass inspection, repair immediately

• Don't continue driving uninspected vehicle

• Budget for annual inspection costs

10. Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

The Most Serious Common Violation:

DUI charges carry severe criminal and civil penalties in Virginia.

Virginia DUI Laws

Legal Limits:

• 0.08% BAC for drivers 21+

• 0.02% BAC for drivers under 21

• Any detectable drug impairment

Penalties:

• First offense: Class 1 misdemeanor, up to 12 months jail, $250-2,500 fine

• License suspension: 12 months minimum

• Ignition interlock required

• VASAP (education program) required

• Permanent criminal record

• Astronomical insurance increases

How to Avoid DUI

Zero Tolerance:

Never Drive Impaired:

• If drinking, don't drive—period

• Plan ahead for safe transportation

• Use rideshare services (Uber, Lyft)

• Designate sober driver

• Stay overnight where you are

Alternatives:

• Public transportation

• Taxis and rideshare

• Friends or family pickup

• Walking if safe and practical

• Hotel room for the night

Medication Awareness:

• Some medications cause impairment

• Read warning labels

• Ask doctor about driving restrictions

• Don't combine medications with alcohol

The Cost: A DUI conviction costs $10,000-$15,000+ when including fines, attorney fees, increased insurance, lost wages, and other expenses. No trip is worth that cost—or the risk to lives.

Building Safe Driving Habits

Beyond avoiding specific violations, developing overall safe driving habits keeps you violation-free.

Continuous Improvement

Driver Education:

Even experienced drivers benefit from refresher training:

Driver Improvement Courses:

• Earn 5 safe driving points

• Refresh knowledge of current laws

• Learn defensive driving techniques

• Qualify for insurance discounts

ABC Driver Improvement offers Virginia DMV-approved courses that help you become a safer driver while earning points and potential insurance savings.

Proactive Point Management

Safe Driving Points:

Build a buffer against future mistakes:

• Complete driver improvement course proactively

• Earn 5 safe driving points

• Points offset any future violations

• Can be earned every 2 years

Monitor Your Record:

• Check driving record annually

• Know your current point status

• Address issues before they become serious

• Verify accuracy of record

Protect Your Driving Record with ABC Driver Improvement

Whether you're looking to avoid violations, recover from recent tickets, or simply become a safer driver, ABC Driver Improvement provides the education and safe driving points Virginia drivers need.

How We Help

Comprehensive Education:

✓ Current Virginia Laws – Stay updated on traffic regulations
✓ Violation Prevention – Learn how to avoid common mistakes
✓ Defensive Driving – Techniques to prevent tickets and crashes
✓ Real-World Scenarios – Practice decision-making skills

Safe Driving Points:

✓ Earn 5 Points – Buffer against future violations
✓ Offset Violations – Reduce impact of existing tickets
✓ Prevent Suspension – Keep point total below thresholds
✓ 5-Year Duration – Long-term protection on your record

Insurance Benefits:

✓ Premium Discounts – Save 5-15% for 3 years
✓ Rate Protection – Offset increases from violations
✓ Demonstrate Responsibility – Show insurers your commitment

Convenient Online Format:

✓ 100% Online – Complete from home anytime
✓ Self-Paced – Finish on your schedule
✓ Mobile-Friendly – Works on any device
✓ Fast Certificate – Delivered within 24 hours

Just $74.99 – Affordable investment in your driving record and safety

Don't Wait for a Ticket to Take Action

The best time to learn how to avoid violations is before you get one. Proactively completing a driver improvement course helps you:

• Understand Virginia's unique traffic laws

• Develop habits that prevent violations

• Earn safe driving points as protection

• Qualify for insurance discounts

• Become a genuinely safer driver

Protect your record, your license, and your wallet. Invest in your driving education today.

Enroll in Virginia's Best Driver Improvement Course →

Contact ABC Driver Improvement

Questions about avoiding violations or improving your driving?

• Phone: (804) 223-2038

• Email: contact@abcdrivingcourse.com

• Website: www.abcdrivingcourse.com

Our Virginia DMV-approved course helps you understand and avoid common traffic violations while earning safe driving points and insurance discounts. Drive smarter, safer, and violation-free.

ABC Driver Improvement's Virginia DMV-approved driver improvement course teaches you how to avoid common traffic violations, understand Virginia's strict laws, and develop safe driving habits. Earn 5 safe driving points, qualify for insurance discounts, and become a more knowledgeable, confident driver. Complete our 8-hour online course at your own pace for just $74.99.