Virginia HB 1479: Punitive damages; hit and run drivers.

Bill Text

2026 SESSION

INTRODUCED

26105555D

HOUSE BILL NO. 1479

Offered January 23, 2026

A BILL to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 8.01-44.5:1, relating to punitive damages; hit and run drivers.

—————

Patrons—Davis and Cousins

—————

Referred to Committee for Courts of Justice

—————

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia: 

1. That the Code of Virginia is amended by adding a section numbered 8.01-44.5:1 as follows: 

§ 8.01-44.5:1. Punitive damages; hit and run drivers.

In any action for personal injury or death or property damage arising from conduct that constitutes a felony violation of § 46.2-894, punitive damages may be awarded to the plaintiff.