Reckless driving is a significant concern across the nation. Nearly two million people die every year according to WHO data due to road accidents. They are also the leading cause of death for youth between the ages of 5-29 years old. Speeding is one of the main reasons which causes reckless driving. Because of this, states across the nation are implementing solutions to deter speeding. Citizens of Virginia can soon expect to see new speed-limiting devices implemented across the state.
How speeding is a risk factor for reckless driving
According to the WHO, speeding is one of the main sources which contribute towards reckless driving. Not only is an increase in speeding significantly correlated with the likelihood of both a crash occurring, as well as the severity of the crash. According to the WHO, every 1% increase in average speed produces a 4% increase in the fatal crash risk and a 3% increase in the severity of the crash risk.
Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable to speeding. The risk of a fatal accident occurring to a pedestrian due to speeding increases dramatically as speed increases. For vehicles driving at 65km/hr, fatality risks for drivers and vehicle occupants in “t-bone” car accidents rises to 85%. Other risk factors associated with reckless driving include driving under the influence, non-use of seatbelts, distracted driving, and unsafe vehicles.
New speed-limiting device in this state come 2026
In order to address speeding, may states have started to implement a variety of measures to curb drivers from speeding. The most common measure states have in place to prevent drivers from speeding is speeding fines. In addition, some states also implement fines for slow drivers. While not as high of a risk factor as speeding, slow driving is also a danger for other road users.
In Virginia, a new development is expected to take place to precent speeding starting July 1, 2026. The new HB2096 in the Virginia General Assembly introduces the new Intelligent Speed Assistance Program. This new program will allow a judge to order for the installation of a speed limiting device for a driver who is convicted of driving more than 100 miles per hour. This device would be implemented instead of suspending the driver’s license.
While the specifics of the device have not been disclosed, the device would use GPS technology to estimate how fast the driver is driving, and subsequently preventing any increase in speed. In addition, the driver would be responsible for covering the costs of the installation of the device. The new bill follows similar actions taken by Washington D.C. and New York state, who began using similar technology in 2024 and 2022 respectively.
According to the bill, if drivers attempt to tamper with the device or circumvent it, they will be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor as well as a a penalty of up to 12 months in jail and an additional possible fine of up to $2,500. Misdemeanor’s refer to a violation of a law which is not classified as a felony. General punishments for these types of defenses range from jail time, a probation period, and/or fines. Class 1 misdemeanor’s go on an individual’s criminal record.
A win-win solution
The new speeding devices may offer a solution which benefits all parties. Not only is the convicted driver physically unable to speed with the device, but it also means that the convicted driver can keep their license. The practice of suspending licenses has long attracted widespread criticism due to how it often has much more negative outcomes than what it intends. In particular, low-income individuals are disproportionally affected by these suspension laws which can contribute towards the continued cycle of debt and poverty,
