Reckless Laws For Driving Two Abreast in a Single Lane

Reckless Driving – Driving 2 Abreast in a Single Lane

Va. Code Section 46.2-857 makes it Reckless Driving in certain circumstances to drive abreast of another vehicle in a lane marked for a single vehicle.

To be abreast of one another means when two vehicles are side by side. So this statute essentially make it illegal to drive to vehicles in a single lane.

This code section does not apply in several circumstances. It does not apply for 2 2-wheeled motorcycles to travel in the same lane in the same direction. It also does not apply in any authorized parade, motorcade, or motorcycle escort. It also does not apply when the motor vehicle is in the same lane as bicycle, electric personal assistive mobility device, or moped. If the vehicle e making a pass in a separate lane moving in the same direction, then this section also does not apply.

There may be technical defenses in these types of cases, and each is heavily reliant on the facts of each individual case. The attorneys at Welch & Wright have vast experience in these cases and have successfully fought and won these cases at trial.

Reckless Driving is a class 1 misdemeanor and can result in a jail sentence of up to 1 year, a license suspension for up to 6 months, and a fine of up to $2,500. This charge is a major moving violation and results in 6 demerit points being placed on the defendant’s driving record and stays on their record for 11 years.