In the Commonwealth of Virginia drivers can be arrested when their driving behavior is deemed to be a hazard to others with the intent to harass, intimidate, injure or obstruct another person on the road. Aggressive driving is a Class 2 Misdemeanor which can be based on a broad range of traffic offenses.

What types of driving behaviors can be considered aggressive driving?

• Failure to drive on the right side of the highway
• Failure to drive in lanes marked for vehicle travel
• Following too closely (e.g., tailgating)
• Failure to yield right of way
• Failure to obey traffic control devices (such as speeding radars)
• Passing another driver on the right
• Speeding
• Stopping unnecessarily in a travel lane while on the highway
• Weaving in and out of traffic
• Making angry, rude, or obscene hand or facial gestures at another driver

What are the penalties for Aggressive Driving?

• Class 2 misdemeanor (if charged with the intent to injure another person, this offense is raised to a Class 1 Misdemeanor with penalties of up to $2500.00 and up to 12 months in jail)
• Up to 6 months in jail
• Up to a $1000.00 fine
• 6 demerit points on your DMV driving record
• Mandatory completion of a safe driving program

Why should I contact an attorney? This charge should not be taken lightly and a conviction for aggressive driving can mean years of increased insurance costs among other things. Attorney Paracha can help provide you with an effective defense that will minimize the penalties, allow you to plead to a lesser charge, or in best-case scenario, get the charges against you dropped altogether.

If you have been charged with Aggressive Driving, contact The Paracha Firm immediately for a no-fee consultation.