So I'm lucky enough to be in a job where I sit behind a desk all day and stare at a computer. One aspect of my job is running driving record information for individuals around the nation. To this day I don't think I have yet to see a clean driving record for anyone in the state of Virginia. What the hell are the badges doing to you guys out there?? Of all 50 of our beautiful states, you VA boys have got to have the strictest most ridiculous DMV policies I have ever seen! Which got me to thinkin, how the hell does someone drive a hot rod out there?? Aside from the fact that even the most legit hot rod is probably still "less than illegal" in the eyes of the policia, I'm seeing citations issued to brand new Hondas for things that 49 other states would pass off with a giggle! So what's the deal? Are they really that bad out there, Is it the roads? Is it the people? How are so many people getting pinned in this state?? Not to mention that if you do get to cited for anything (which you probably already have been) you pay out your ass for it! Anyone that can drive a hot rod, more or less a VEHICLE in Virginia is alright in my book!
I've never had a problem with the local authorities. Maybe a cop with an attitude here and there, but overall not too bad. There are plenty of people in my area with cars that would be considered less than legal and they don't seem to have a problem. The state is also pretty lenient with the antique tags. The cops don't have much patience for the rice-burners and loud stereos though. I've seen plenty of them pulled over. Of course, there is the new $3,000 traffic ticket to deal with . http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2007-06-29-Va-new-driving-laws_N.htm Small excerpt; "The new civil charges will range from $750 to $3,000 and be added to existing fines and court costs. The civil penalty for going 20 mph over the speed limit will be $1,050, plus $61 in court costs and a fine that is typically about $200."
I once got a ticket for $10 for not having my front plate mounted. It was in the front windshield. Of course, the cop saw it was in the windshield so it wasn't like you couldn't see it at all. I have learned that I can't get away with anything. On the other hand, I know people who drive with a leave under the wiper blade and covering a dead safety inspection sticker and get away with that for months at a time. What they ought to do is crack down on these agressive drivers. There's a revenue stream for sure. It all started with Gilmore and the "No more car tax" campaign. Got him elected. Our roads went to shit and counties have to make up for the lost income somehow.
Man you guys want to see tuff road laws try our Australian ones. Every state in the US has it much easier than we do!
The roads in southeast VA stink and so do most of the drivers. I've lived here all my life and it gets worse each year. Don't even start me on the DMV.... But we do have a great bunch of hot rodders here .
The only state in the U.S that it is against the law to own a radar decector but it sure is easy to purchase a hand gun.
The Jalopy Journal
