Penalties For Reckless Rriving
There is a popular series of movies where the principle actors drive fast and furiously. It’s incredibly exciting on the big screen. In the real world, people are surprised when they are pulled over by the police and charged with reckless driving as opposed to speeding. Unlike speeding, reckless driving is actually a misdemeanor after the first charge, which can land you in jail and make you pay heavy fines.
First Offense of Reckless Driving
- Up to 90 days in jail
- $500 in fines
Second Offense of Reckless Driving
- Up to 6 months in jail
- $1,000 in fines
Third Offense of Reckless Driving
This can be the charge brought upon you if you damage property or injure another person while driving recklessly. The punishment for this can be as high as 5 years in jail and a $5,000 fine.
Was it Reckless or Careless Driving?
The police will try to prove that you were willfully and wantonly disregarding the safety of others. A good attorney should be contacted as soon as possible. They may be able to get the charges reduced or even dismissed completely. Paying a moving violation is an admission of guilt, so do not do this without first consulting with a lawyer. Weaving in and out of traffic, tailgating, and speeding are all examples of careless driving. However, if the police claim that you were running from them in your automobile, then it may get elevated to a reckless driving charge.
Acting recklessly means you fully understand that others will be hurt by your actions, but you did them anyway. When you add the element of intent, it becomes less about your actions and more about your state of mind. Clearly, there is a grey area to be argued here. An experienced attorney in your corner could make all the difference.