Police said the boy, from Virginia, suffered only minor injuries, and eventually got to school after being checked by doctors at a local hospital.

His parents have since been charged with child endangerment.

The incident took place at around 7.40am on Monday on Route 360 near the town of Richmond.

Police said the boy, who wasn't identified, missed the school bus, so decided to take the keys to his family's 2005 Ford Taurus and drive toward school while his mother was asleep.

He ran off the road several times before hitting an embankment and utility pole. Police say he wasn't wearing a safety belt.

Sgt. Tom Cunningham says the boy arrived shortly after lunch after being escorted to school by the authorities.

"He was very intent on getting to school," said Sheriff Chuck Wilkins. "When he got out of the car, he started walking to school. He did not want to miss breakfast and PE."

The boy's mother has not been offered bail, but his father has been released.

The boy and his 4-year-old brother were placed in protective custody.

by:telegraph