Top 5 Reasons Police Pull People Over in Virginia | Bristol, VA Traffic Lawyer

Located on the Tennessee-Virginia state lane, Bristol’s majestic mountains provide an exquisite backdrop for what is considered one of the most beautiful areas in the Southeast.  Its geographic location, excellent transport connections, and breathtaking scenery make it an impeccable place for local and out-of-state drivers to go on long road trips or short drives around town.

Unfortunately, traffic stops are common in the area, as speed traps are frequently erected along Interstates 81 and 381.  These stops can result in tickets to drivers not intending to break the law.

We Offer Affordable Fixed-Fee Representation and Accept Credit Card Payments

If you already received a traffic citation, call our office to schedule a free consultation with experienced Bristol, Virginia traffic ticket attorney Mark Hurt.  He can listen to the facts of your case, explain your legal options, and fight tenaciously in seeking reduced penalties or a complete dismissal.  In most cases, he can even appear in court on behalf of clients, so that they do not need to miss work or drive to the courthouse.

How We Help

Having an experienced Bristol, VA traffic lawyer often helps individuals avoid inconvenience and steep penalties, including:

  • Significant Fines
  • License Suspension
  • Increased Insurance Premiums
  • Jail Time
  • Community Service
  • Demerit Points on a Driving Record
  • Misdemeanor of Felony Criminal Record

Many drivers are unaware of local traffic laws, which makes them an easy target for overly zealous law enforcement officers.  Although no individual is a perfect driver at all times, there are some precautions that can be taken to reduce the risk of being pulled over and issued a costly ticket.  If you would like to learn about avoiding common traffic citations in Bristol, we encourage you to read the following.

The Top 5 Reasons Drivers are Pulled Over in Bristol, Virginia.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, law enforcement officers pull over nearly 32 million vehicles each year.[1]  Although a driver’s chances of being pulled over are typically less than 20%, several behaviors that can be avoided to lower the chances of being issued a traffic citation in Bristol.

Don’t Speed in Town or On Interstates!

Excessive speeding is the most common reason traffic officers pull over drivers in town.  Under Virginia law, the maximum speed limit on interstate highways or other limited-access highways is 55 miles per hour unless there is a posted speed sign specifying otherwise.  For example, the maximum speed limit is 60 miles per hour on U.S. Route 17, U.S. Route 23, U.S. Route 29, U.S. Route 58, U.S. Alternate Route 58, U.S. Route 301, U.S. Route 360, U.S. Route 460, U.S. Route 501 between the Town of South Boston and the North Carolina state line, State Route 3, and State Route 207 where such routes are nonlimited access, multilane, divided highways.[2]

While most of us are in a hurry, it is essential to remember that speed limits are not arbitrary rules; they are designed to keep our community safe.  New speed cameras have expanded the police reach, allowing officers to issue tickets without even being on-site.

It’s important to know that if you’ve received a ticket, you have the option to challenge the charge in court.  Legally, you’re not guilty of any traffic charge unless you pay the ticket (and thereby admit guilt), or unless you are found guilty by the court.  At The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt, while we can’t guaranty a favorable outcome, we do have a strong track record of success in challenging speeding tickets and obtaining reduced penalties and dismissals and better outcomes than if a ticket was paid.

It Is Illegal to Drive While Using a Cell Phone in Bristol. 

Approximately 15% of all fatal crashes are attributable to distracted driving.  As a result, Virginia enacted laws to address the widespread use of mobile devices, hoping to cut down on this unsettling statistic.[3]  A new law that took effect January 1, 2021, made it illegal to hold a handheld device while driving, including a cell phone or tablet.  This means that reading emails or texts, manually texting, or just holding a device in a work zone are actionable offenses.

It is important to note that there are some exceptions, including:

  • The operator of any emergency vehicle while he or she is performing official duties;
  • An operator who is lawfully parked or stopped;
  • Any person using a cell phone to report an emergency;
  • The use of band radios; or
  • The operator of any Department of Transportation vehicle or vehicle operated pursuant to the Department of Transportation safety service patrol program.

Violating the new law is punishable, for a first-time offender, by a fine of $125 and, for a subsequent offense, by a fine of $250.[4]  If you were not using a phone and still received a ticket, consult with our Bristol, VA traffic lawyer right away.  We may be able to help eliminate or reduce the penalties.

Speeding Even 15 Miles Over the Speed Limit Can Be Reckless Driving.

A reckless driving conviction is a serious charge, as it can lead to a lifelong criminal record, steep fines, and up to one year in jail.  Running stop lights, swerving, racing, and erratic driving are common reasons cops pull over individuals; however, many unsuspecting drivers are unaware that other seemingly minor actions can also result in a reckless driving charge.  Specifically, driving 20 miles over the applicable speed limit or 85 miles per hour regardless of the posted speed limit is reckless driving in Virginia.[5]  This means that it is possible to receive a citation for driving only 15 miles over a posted 70 mile per hour speed limit.

Failing to Wear a Seatbelt Can Land You in Trouble in Virginia.

Under Virginia Code section 46.2-1094, any person occupying the front seat of a motor vehicle is required to wear a safety belt.  However, there are some exceptions, such as pregnancy or a disability.   If you received a ticket for not wearing a seat belt, call our office to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Bristol traffic ticket lawyer.  We can evaluate your situation and determine whether a medical exemption certificate can be presented in court.

Tinted Windows or Broken Headlights Can Result in Expensive Fines.

Bristol police officers frequently pull drivers over because of dark tinted windows, broken headlights, or a cracked windshield.  They can easily spot minor vehicular issues from a distance, making you an easy target for ticketing fines.  Even worse, these violations can lead to additional penalties if you have not renewed your license or insurance.

How Much Does A Top Bristol Speed and Traffic Citation Lawyer Cost?

At The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt, we firmly believe Virginians should have affordable access to quality legal representation.  For this reason, we offer low fixed-fee representation in traffic citation matters, meaning you will pay the same amount regardless of how long it takes to resolve your issue.  Further, we accept credit card payments.

Why Should I Hire an Experienced Bristol, VA Traffic Lawyer?

Having a renowned Virginia traffic lawyer can be instrumental in a case.  When individuals receive a ticket, attorney Mark Hurt can help dispute the charge.  When someone is pulled over for suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, we can help build a solid defense and seek to mitigate penalties.  No matter the type of traffic citation, our capable Bristol traffic lawyer can zealously advocate on your behalf.

Call Our Office to Schedule a FREE CONSULTATION!


[1] Police Stop More Than 32 Million American per Year for Traffic Violations, Lending Tree, https://www.valuepenguin.com/traffic-stops-auto-insurance-premiums.

[2] VA Code § 46.2-870.

[3] Phone Down. It’s the Law, Drive Smart Virginia, https://www.drivesmartva.org/current-projects/phone-down-its-the-law/.

[4] Phone Down. It’s the Law, Drive Smart Virginia, https://www.drivesmartva.org/current-projects/phone-down-its-the-law/.

[5] VA Code § 46.2-862.

What Our Clients Say

Mary, Bart, and Mark helped me tremendously with my workers compensation case. We navigated a long (over a year) road together and they helped me to not only win my case, but obtain a settlement of over $125k. I would recommend the Offices of Mark Hurt to anyone needing someone to stand with them in their corner! Thanks again Mary and Bart!! :-)
Charles Dutcher
Charles Dutcher
1685471585
Extremely pleased with the prompt support and guidance from Michael. He and the office staff were great to work with. They walked us through the process and were able to have my daughter's traffic violation dismissed with 0 points.
ga thomson
ga thomson
1684936164
Bart and Mary were very professional and helpful with my claim. I appreciate all that you did for me. You were great.Thanks forall that you've done.Clifford E Boyer
Clifford Boyer
Clifford Boyer
1683668004
I started receiving services through this law firm in 2017 for my workers compensation case. Over the years, this firm has been attentive, kind, patient and understanding to my needs. My calls were returned promptly, if the associate was unavailable at that time and I have had ample opportunity to speak with Mr Hurt directly concerning my case. With Mary Wilson, Bart Conway, Mr Hurt and others behind the scene, my case has progressed smoothly. I am very pleased with the services and attention I received at this firm and would recommend Mr Hurt, Mary and Bart for your needs.
Teresa Harris
Teresa Harris
1683569779
We hired Mr. Hurt to help settle a worker’s comp injury case for my husband. Mark, Bart, and Mary worked tirelessly to resolve his case and reach a settlement we were pleased with. They were always available to answer questions and returned calls in a timely manner.
K F
K F
1682489385
We were fortunate to find the Law Offices of Mark T. Hunt to help us set up our estate. Melanie was a joy to work with. She did a wonderful job putting together all of the documents needed to complete our estate planning.
Roxanne Mcfall
Roxanne Mcfall
1681766365
The office got right back to me and were compassionate about my sensitive situation
polly deal
polly deal
1680754180
Jessica was helpful in assisting me with my disability claim!
Amber Snapp
Amber Snapp
1680618358
Jessica was super helpful when I had questions about submitting my claim for disability. She also got me a case manager quickly!
Amber Petrovich
Amber Petrovich
1680618228
I have only praise for the Mark T Hurt firm and especially Michael Miles. Michael was very helpful in guiding me through the court process ans assuring a good outcome. I would recommend this firm and Michael in particular if you need representation in Virginia!
Dave Dalpiaz
Dave Dalpiaz
1680114987
I called and spoke with Jessica in the Disability Dept. after my Denial and she was right on top of getting me the paperwork to Hire them as my Representatives to Handle my claim from here on out
Allen Smith
Allen Smith
1679416063
Jessica was extremely helpful at assisting me with getting me in the process to file my disability case.
Jason Harris
Jason Harris
1678138281
Thank youJessica from the Social security DeptU were very Helpful
Christal Postema
Christal Postema
1678134153
Jessica in theSoccial Secuity Dept was great
Bryon Nimmo
Bryon Nimmo
1678130439
I spoke with Jessica and she was fantastic! She helped me get my social security disability application started and set up with a case manager.
Rebecca Hunt Ford
Rebecca Hunt Ford
1678128980
Jessica @ Social Security Department was very helpful and friendly with us today.
Winonia Blankenship
Winonia Blankenship
1678125271
I had a ticket and was upset. I did not want points on my license. Frankie was amazing and made sure all my bases were covered. The Law Office of Mark Hurt did a wonderful job and got my ticket completely dismissed!!!! I am so glad they helped me. They were so nice and answered all my questions. I never had to worry after I talked with them. I would highly recommend that anyone who needs help with a ticket to talk with this firm!! Thank you so much for everything!!!
Nichloas Wyatt
Nichloas Wyatt
1677981214
Jessica in Disability is awesome!! She replies quickly and gets things done. I’m very satisfied with my choice and feel great that it is in their hands!
laura dykes
laura dykes
1677875154
The individuals I spoke with were courteous, helpful, and thorough. Thank you Jessica.
RoseMarie Whisnant
RoseMarie Whisnant
1677785574
Jessica and the disability dept are very helpful and give excellent assistance with filling a claim very glad I contacted them
Jessie Hawks
Jessie Hawks
1677680471
Was very easy process. Jessica was very friendly and helpful while applying for Social Security Disability.
Darlene Robinson
Darlene Robinson
1677623644
Thank you so much Jessica for helping me with my social security disability case! You were kind, helpful, and understanding. I greatly appreciate you!
Kelly Bragg
Kelly Bragg
1677613932
Jessica and the group started helping me with my disability case the same day I called. 10/10 recommend
Brittany Poole
Brittany Poole
1677612031
js_loader