Virginia, like many states, has several laws that may seem weird or downright funny to some people. Despite their content, many of these statutes still exist because there hasn’t been a strong push to remove them. In many cases, the laws reflect a bygone era’s social attitudes, while others seem too absurd to be true.
Although some of these laws are out-of-date and unusual, injuries and accidents are serious matters that need proper legal help. If you’re involved in an accident, it’s important to talk to an experienced personal injury attorney in Virginia as soon as possible. Contact us today at Marks & Harrison. We can explain your rights, help you understand what to do next, and work to pursue the compensation you deserve.
It Is Illegal to Use Explosives to Catch Fish in Virginia. Doing So Could Slap You with a Class 1 Misdemeanor
This modern law is still on the books and enforced. Virginia law strictly prohibits using explosives or dynamite for fishing. You can’t sell fish caught that way, either, whether they were caught in Virginia or elsewhere. Although the statute may sound ridiculous, and you might assume everyone knows this is a terrible idea, it’s designed to protect aquatic ecosystems and enforce ethical fishing practices.
The Only Animals You May Hunt on Sundays Are Raccoons, and Then Only Until 2 A.M.
Virginia takes its hunting laws seriously, although this was an odd way to regulate the practice. Under an older version of Va. Code § 29.1-521, most Sunday hunting is banned to protect wildlife. Raccoons were one of the few exceptions, but even then, the law only allowed hunting until 2 a.m.
Breaking the modern rules can lead to steep fines or losing your hunting privileges, so it’s always wise to double-check the latest regulations before heading out.
It Is a Class 6 Felony to Attach a Smoke Screen or a Flame Thrower to One’s Vehicle That May Be a Hindrance or Obstruction to Traffic
If you were hoping to turn your boring sedan into a fearsome four-wheeled weapon, Va. Code § 46.2-1086 will dash that dream. Adding a smoke screen or flamethrower to your vehicle is a serious felony (at least in Virginia).
So, why is the state intent on keeping vehicles flame-free? The simple answer is that these devices can put other drivers in danger. A conviction can mean jail time and a permanent criminal record, so your flamethrower fantasy should remain just that — a fantasy.
In Virginia Beach, If You’re Intoxicated but Not Driving Your Car, Both the Driver and You May Be Charged With DUI
Virginia Beach doesn’t tolerate impaired driving. Even passengers can face charges if they’re intoxicated and encourage or enable someone to drive under the influence.
That’s right: simply being drunk in a car with an impaired driver can lead to a criminal record. This law is meant to stop everyone involved from turning a blind eye to dangerous behavior. Always remember to designate a sober driver (or use taxis and rideshares) when you’re going out for a drink.
Contact a Virginia Personal Injury Lawyer
Virginia’s laws can be complicated, even if you’re not trying to tickle women or use explosives while fishing. If you’ve been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence or recklessness, you need a legal team that can help you pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
Marks & Harrison’s highly skilled team of personal injury attorneys has represented clients across Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C. for over a century. Our lawyers have a proven track record of success: we’ve handled some of Virginia’s largest personal injury cases and recovered millions for accident victims.
One happy client wrote: “When a truck driver crashed into my car and turned my life upside down, Marks & Harrison made things right. They took care of everything so I could focus on getting well. I will always be grateful.”
Contact us today to discuss your case with a Virginia personal injury lawyer who will fight for your rights and the compensation you deserve. Reach out through our contact page for a free, no-obligation consultation.
