Will There Be More Arrests for Street Racing in 2025?

 Posted on February 26, 2025 in Criminal Defense

If signed by the Governor, a new Virginia law could mean more arrests and stiffer penalties for exhibition driving. Penalties for drivers convicted under the proposed law could include vehicle impoundment, jail time, the suspension of a driver’s license, and fines. Along with drivers, some passengers could also face fines. Although many reckless driving arrests are for misdemeanor offenses, some carry felony charges.

If you have been charged with reckless or exhibition driving, you need an experienced Fairfax, VA criminal defense lawyer to defend your rights and work toward a successful resolution to your case.

What Is Considered Exhibition Driving?

Virginia law currently forbids drivers from reckless driving, and it specifically refers to a speed and manner that endangers others. If enacted, the new law would expand reckless driving definitions to include exhibition driving. Some examples are:

• Closing or blocking a street for the purpose of exhibition driving or racing, known as a street takeover

• Riding on the roof, hood, or another inappropriate area during exhibition driving

• Performing stunts

• Burnouts and doughnuts

• Drifting

These and other forms of reckless driving would be prohibited on Virginia roads and in parking lots and driveways. If injury or death results from these actions, the criminal charges will be felonies.

What Are the Consequences of a Criminal Conviction in Virginia?

Misdemeanor convictions typically have lesser consequences than felonies, but no conviction is good. Your auto insurance rates can increase significantly. Along with potential jail or prison time, vehicle impoundment, fines, and loss of your driver’s license, you will have a mark on your criminal record. Although your conviction could be eligible for expungement, there is no guarantee. Your employment and housing opportunities, security clearances, and borrowing power could be limited.

How Can a Lawyer Help If I Am Charged With Exhibition or Reckless Driving?

A criminal defense attorney’s job is to protect your rights while working toward the best possible resolution for your charges. That does not mean we can guarantee your charges will be dropped, but we will look for effective defenses based on your circumstances to reduce the repercussions you could face as much as possible.

Your defense strategy might include disputing the evidence against you, revealing procedural errors, providing an alibi, or offering a compelling reason for your behavior. The best-case scenario for you could be admission into a pretrial diversion program, accepting a negotiated plea deal with the prosecution, or winning your case in court. Your attorney will explain your options thoroughly and help you make informed decisions. We will remain beside you through the entire process, giving you support and seasoned legal counsel.

Call Our Skilled Fairfax, VA Street Racing Charges Lawyer

When your future is at stake, you need an effective Fairfax, VA criminal defense lawyer from Robinson Law, PLLC to achieve an optimal outcome. Call 703-844-3746 now to schedule your complimentary case review. If you prefer, you can contact us online. Hablamos Español.