The most important sentence in the article:
Of course, this doesn't mean you can get away with speeding in Virginia — squad cars remain effective in the only state which has outlawed all radar detectors.Detectors are also unlawful in DC.
They have detector detectors in VA, and if you are caught using one (turned on), not only do you get a ticket, they confiscate the unit on the spot. If it can't easily be removed from the vehicle, they impound the vehicle.
And, having lived and driven all over, the VA coppers are as good at catching you speeding as anyone, anywhere. Out in the sticks and hills, you are pretty safe to have some fun, but in urban areas, all freeways, and main thoroughfares, you need to be on your toes.
Two of my few tickets were awarded from deep cover cars: one old red Ford Taurus station wagon, and one Volkswagen Golf. You could not have spotted they were undercover if you were sitting on them, or in my case, if they were following you. (fat, dumb, happy, and Jess, all in the same car)
I will (again) post a warning for all traveling to Inzane at Roanoke using I-81 north or south. While local PDs will camp out on the exits/entrances nearest their little towns, the VA State Police own I-81 from top to bottom. They give no warnings, only tickets.
It is only 2-lane each way with a ton of 18 wheeler truck traffic. Much of it is really a nice ride with lots of rolling hills (for a freeway). But it is not uncommon for one 18 wheeler to pass another at one MPH faster than the other, and by the time the pass is complete, traffic is backed up a long way (and raring to go).
And all these heavy loaded trucks slow way down going up all the hills, so that is the natural place to punch it and pass 10 trucks when you get the chance. And just as you crest the hill, you see several cruisers and officers working radar and lidar just on the down-slope, and they direct you to the back of the line of cars getting performance awards. So beware when cresting any of these many rolling hills.
Speed limits on I-81 vary up and down from 55, 60, 65 and 70 depending on how close you are to population during the trip, so you cannot rely on cruise control (or a steady right wrist) (without making adjustments often). Over 80 (even in a posted 70), or 20 over anywhere, can be an automatic reckless driving ticket, which in VA requires you to personally appear in court (no prepaying allowed, because jail time is an option). You
can be ticketed just for 20 over and not reckless at the officers discretion. And also at the officer's discretion for reckless driving, you can be taken away in cuffs, and your vehicle impounded. I have not heard of this happening much, but just so you know it
can happen.
You will not find a more professional, well trained, spit and polish, and polite bunch of policemen than the VA State Troopers anywhere in the country. But they have no discernible sense of humor (on the job), and never issue warnings (only tickets) to the best of my knowledge.
Also, if you are pulled over on your bike, it's OK to get off your bike, but keep your hands out of your pockets, and never approach them within grabbing distance (they don't like it). You hold out your license, and let them come and take it from you.
We do
not have a lawful requirement to announce if you are carrying concealed as part of our CCP law. But they are very grateful if you tell them, and the best way to do it is to hand over license, registration, and permit all at the same time. No VA cop ever asks for proof of insurance like every other jurisdiction I've lived in. I suppose they might at an accident scene.
Virginia honors all valid out of state CCW permits. Any person issued a concealed carry permit in another state may carry in Virginia provided they meet the following conditions;
They are at least 21 years old.
They must carry photo ID issued by a government agency of any state or the US Department of State or US Department of Defense.
The permit must be displayed with photo ID upon request from law enforcement.
The permit holder has not had a Virginia concealed carry permit revoked in the past.
This has been a public service announcement, and we now return to our regularly scheduled foolishness.
