Virginia residents often unknowingly violate everyday laws related to traffic, littering, and pedestrian behavior. These infractions stem from common habits but carry fines, points on driving records, or even jail time under state code.
Traffic Violations
Speeding tops the list as Virginia’s most frequent violation, with fines starting at $6 per mile over the limit plus processing fees, and 3-4 demerit points depending on excess speed. Failing to obey signs or signals, like running red lights or stop signs, adds 3 points and up to $250 fines. Distracted driving, such as texting, contributes heavily to the state’s 122,000+ annual crashes.​
Littering Penalties
Dropping cigarette butts, trash, or any debris on public or private property qualifies as littering, a misdemeanor with up to $2,500 fines and 12 months in jail per Virginia Code §33.1-346. Local ordinances amplify this, treating even small litter as criminal with community service options.​
Jaywalking Status
Jaywalking was rarely enforced in Virginia and has been effectively decriminalized since March 2021, allowing mid-block crossings without typical fines, though pedestrians must still yield to vehicles. It’s no longer a common pretext for stops.​
Other Daily Infractions
Eating or drinking while driving, illegal parking, and not cleaning up after dogs violate local rules with fines up to $500. Biking on sidewalks or without lights after dark adds minor penalties, while swearing in public traces to old statutes but sees little enforcement.​
SOURCES
[1](https://emrochandkilduff.com/what-is-most-common-traffic-violations/)
[2](https://www.tkevinwilsonlawyer.com/library/if-you-throw-a-butt-your-butt-may-be-thrown-in-jail.cfm)
[3](https://mccreadylaw.com/blog/breaking-law-every-day/)
[4](https://www.reddit.com/r/Urbanism/comments/1hiu4vc/why_i_break_the_law_every_day_a_brief_history_of/)
[5](https://www.hurtinva.com/news/5-laws-you-didnt-know-existed-in-virginia)
