Reckless Driving: What Is It And What Are The Repercussions?
Reckless driving can be a very serious offense because it endangers the other drivers on the road, as well as yourself. It's important to familiarize yourself with the laws of any state you may be driving in to avoid getting yourself in trouble for reckless driving.
What Is Reckless Driving?
The exact definition of reckless driving will vary slightly depending on which state you are in. Though, they all follow the same basic idea that reckless driving is when a person is driving with no regard for the safety of other drivers and/or their property.
Examples of Reckless Driving
These examples may not be true for every state. Make sure you are familiar with all traffic laws in your state.
Examples of reckless driving can include:
- Racing another vehicle
- Passing a vehicle with low visibility
- Running from a police officer
- Excessive speeding
- Driving while intoxicated
- Unlawfully passing a school bus
- Running a red light
- Falling asleep while driving
There are more infractions that could fall under the scope of reckless driving. If you are not aware of your state's laws, you could unknowingly be guilty.
What Are the Repercussions of Reckless Driving?
Depending on the state you are in, reckless driving can be considered anywhere from a misdemeanor to a felony. Either charge can result in jail time and/or fines. Depending on your state and charge, fines for reckless driving can range anywhere from $25 to $25,000. If sentenced to jail time, you could serve between five days and five years. Many states will also temporarily suspend or revoke your driver's license.
What to Do When You Have Been Caught Reckless Driving
If you are caught driving recklessly, it is important that you do not make the same mistake twice. Some states may not consider your first offense a felony, but they may consider your second offense a felony. Having a felony on your record can make mundane things like finding housing more difficult for you.
You will also want to reach out to and hire a lawyer. A lawyer will be an expert in the laws of your state. They will be able to guide you through the process and, if you are lucky, they may be able to get your charges lowered to something less serious like speeding. It is especially important to listen and trust the lawyer you hire. They have been through this process many times and may have ideas to help your case.