Reckless driving is when a person drives a vehicle in a way that poses a danger to others. Reckless driving is different from other traffic laws like speeding violations.
Because driving is an integral part of modern life, every state has its own set of laws that govern how drivers must behave when operating a car. Driving in an unsafe or reckless manner is a crime, as vehicles can be so dangerous. This crime can lead to severe penalties for anyone who is convicted.
Reckless driving is when a person drives a vehicle in a way that poses a danger to others. Reckless driving is different from other traffic laws like speeding violations. Although reckless driving is a crime that many states have outlined, it can still be committed by drivers if they are operating in an unreasonably dangerous manner.
Factors. Courts consider many factors when determining reckless driving. These factors include the weather conditions, time of day, presence of animals or people, vehicle qualities, familiarity with the area, and driver’s knowledge of it.
Beyond negligence. Reckless driving goes beyond making a mistake or being negligent. The driver must act with a willful disregard for safety. A prosecutor doesn’t have to show the driver’s mental state at that time. The prosecution can show that the driver knew or should have known that the driving was unsafe by proving the circumstances surrounding it.
Penalties
Reckless driving can be one of the most serious traffic offenses. Reckless driving can lead to severe penalties, including jail time, fines, and the suspension of your driver’s license. Although penalties can vary from one state to the next, they all tend to include a variety of penalties.
Prison or jail. A conviction for reckless driving can lead to a one-year sentence. A few states allow the crime of reckless driving to be considered a felony. This means that a conviction could result in up to a year in prison.
Fines. Fine is a common penalty for reckless driving. The fine amount can vary depending on the circumstances and the state of the case, but usually, they range from several hundred to several thousand dollars.
Probation. Reckless driving convictions can also lead to probation sentences. However, these sentences depend on the facts of each case and the driver’s driving record. A court will sentence you to probation if you don’t comply with certain terms. These include finding work, regular visits to a probation officer, and not committing traffic violations or crimes.
License and suspension. Revocation or suspension of licenses for reckless driving is possible. Reckless driving convictions are usually subject to a minimum 30-day suspension under state law. Drivers who have been convicted of reckless driving or other traffic violations may be subject to longer suspensions or even permanent license revocation.
Talk to an attorney
Before proceeding with any action regarding a reckless driving case, anyone facing it should consult a reckless driving lawyer. Local attorneys will be familiar with the procedures of local courts and prosecutors in handling reckless driving charges. They will also know what state requirements apply to reckless driving. Even if reckless driving has never been charged with a crime, and you don’t believe that you are guilty, it is still a serious offense that can have severe consequences. This includes a reduction in your ability to get insurance. Do not dismiss reckless driving charges as if they were a traffic ticket. Get a criminal defense lawyer as soon as you can.
