Virginia is taking tough measures on careless drivers. It is anticipated that the Commonwealth will be the first state to implement intelligent speed assistance systems.
These devices, which forbid vehicles from going over the speed limit, are small enough to mount on an air vent.
“Right now, the need is urgent. Reckless driving continues to claim lives and cause irreparable harm,” stated Tammy Guido McGee, an HB2096 supporter.
The measure permits a judge to order a convicted reckless driver to equip their vehicle with a speed limiter.
Since many people drive anyway, increasing their chances of speeding again, McGee said this is more effective than suspending their license.
“Give them the ability to go to work and not financially impact their family, but teach them a lesson, make sure they’re being reminded when they’re speeding,” she stated.
In 2019, a careless motorist killed Conner, McGee’s 16-year-old son.
“Had this driver of the vehicle that my son was in had this device on his vehicle, he wouldn’t be able to do twice the legal speed limit. And ultimately, that’s what caused my son’s death was speed,” she stated.
In 2023, Virginia saw over 25,000 speed-related collisions, with around 500 of those fatalities, according to the DMV.
Additionally, their figures exceeded those of 2022.
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“This piece of technology has the ability, if properly used and enforced by our judges, has the ability to save lives. And every life is worth saving. Every single person that dies in Virginia and all over the country is a story. It’s an individual that had a future,” she stated.
Driving in a separate vehicle or tampering with the device is a misdemeanor that carries a maximum one-year jail sentence.
Last year, a similar law was approved in Washington, D.C., and comparable legislation is currently being pushed in places like Maryland.
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Although Governor Youngkin made changes to the measure, it should be revised and sent back to him for signature by the end of the month.
In July 2026, it will become a law.
This information has been sourced from whsv.
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