Virginia Beach Texting While Driving

Did you know that drivers who text are 23% more likely to be involved in an auto accident? Due to an increasing number of collisions caused by texting while driving, the state of Virginia recently passed legislation to prevent this inattentive behavior. As a result, if you are caught texting while driving, you may receive a citation for the offense. 

Although many other states have passed similar laws to prevent drivers from sending text messages while they are driving, Virginia’s law also prohibits drivers from sending emails on their phone or other mobile device. The law also makes emergency responders, such as paramedics and police officers, and anyone who is reporting an emergency exempt from texting while driving laws. 

In Virginia Beach, texting while driving is classified as a secondary offense, which means you can only be ticketed for texting if you are responsible for an auto accident, or are pulled over for another traffic offense. For example, if an officer pulls you over for running a stop sign, and he or she noticed you were texting earlier, you can receive tickets for both offenses.

If you receive a ticket for texting while driving, you will be fined for the violation. While your first offense will only cost you $20, the fine for subsequent convictions will go up to $50. In addition, the citation will not be reported to your insurance company, and it will not add any points to your driving record.

If you were recently cited for texting while driving, and the offense was connected to another traffic offense or auto accident, you may want to consider discussing your case with an experienced traffic attorney. Although your texting while driving citation will not affect your driving record, your other offense may.

Attorney Michael C. Tillotson represents Virginia Beach drivers who are accused of traffic offenses. With over a decade of trial experience, Mr. Tillotson has the skill and knowledge to handle your case. Contact attorney Michael C. Tillotson today for your free consultation.