Many traffic tickets can be navigated with a quick call to a traffic ticket lawyer or by paying fines and even heading to traffic school. When the charges are more severe though, individuals may find themselves in a legal battle that could negatively affect every single aspect of their life. This includes reckless driving, one of the most dreadful charges that any individual can receive behind the wheel. Here is a look at these misdemeanors and some of the burdensome consequences that will come along with a conviction.
Reckless driving is usually one of the least understood traffic violations as they are up to interpretation by the arresting law enforcement officer. In California traffic code, drivers can be charged with reckless driving if they are operating a vehicle with a disregard for the safety of others or their property. This could come about as the result of a driver going over 100 miles per hour, swerving severely, racing with other vehicles, or even as an accompaniment to a DUI. Many times, a driver will be charged with reckless driving in addition to other charges.
Much like a DUI, a reckless driving charge will come with an immediate jail sentence for at least 5 days. Some counties can raise this time in jail for up to 90 days. The base fines from the court will be a minimum of $500 and as high as $5000. On top of all of these other penalties, a reckless driving charge will furthermore come with an immediate license suspension for at least 30 days.
Individuals that are convicted of these misdemeanors will also generally have two points placed on their driver's license. With as little as 4 points in a single year, the driver's license will be suspended for an additional 4 month period. The individual's insurance company will also be notified of these points and will increase the insurance for up to 10 years, costing the driver thousands of dollars a year.
If the reckless driving resulted in damage to property, injuries, or death, all of these penalties are going to be enhanced dramatically. These charges could even be bumped up to a felony, requiring a traffic ticket lawyer and a full trial by jury. In order to protect one's license and their record, any person that has been charged with reckless driving should seek out a legal representative right away. Those that attempt to take on these charges alone will have a very slim chance at success.
When a driver is charged with any misdemeanor or felony while behind the wheel, they should not lose hope. These situations can be confusing and convoluted, however with an experienced attorney by one's side, there is no legal situation that is beyond repair.
Reckless driving can bring about harsh penalties. Mr. Ticket is a reckless driving attorney who can help you fight these charges and avoid the penalties that come with them.