Facing a handheld device violation? Virginia’s strict penalties can impact your record, insurance and freedom. Here’s how.
You’re breaking the law by holding your phone
Virginia banned holding wireless devices while driving in 2021. You cannot text, call or use apps unless your car is parked or you use hands-free technology.
Police can ticket you for any handheld device use. Even checking your GPS counts as a violation.
The penalties hit hard
Your first ticket costs $125. Get caught again and you pay $250. Drive distracted in school zones or work zones and your fine doubles.
But tickets are just the start. These charges stay on your driving record for years. Your insurance rates will likely increase. Some employers run regular driving record checks that could affect your job.
Police are watching
Officers train to spot distracted drivers. They use dashboard cameras and witness statements to build cases against you. After crashes, investigators check phone records to prove you were using your device.
You might think holding your phone low helps you avoid tickets. Police know this trick and watch for it.
Fighting back protects your future
You don’t have to accept these charges. Traffic attorneys know how to challenge distracted driving tickets. They can question police procedures, examine evidence and negotiate with prosecutors.
Without legal help, you risk accepting penalties that follow you for years. A conviction affects more than your wallet. It can impact your insurance rates, employment opportunities and driving privileges.
What you need to do
Virginia prosecutors rarely dismiss these cases without a fight. They have specialized training and resources to convict you. You need someone who understands the system and knows how to protect your rights.
An experienced traffic attorney can find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. They know which defenses to use in Virginia courts. They can often get charges reduced or dismissed entirely.
Don’t let one moment of distraction define your legal future. These charges carry real consequences that extend far beyond the initial fine. You deserve aggressive representation that fights for your rights and protects your driving record.
