A citation for reckless driving may seem like an insignificant charge. However, people who receive a ticket for this offense put themselves in danger of getting points on their license, paying fines and even facing jail time.
Understanding what reckless driving is and its consequences can prepare a defendant to fight the charges.
What is reckless driving?
New York City takes reckless driving seriously, and the city government has enacted various initiatives to combat the danger it presents on the roads. Reckless driving involves unreasonably endangering others on a public highway or unreasonably interfering with the other’s free and proper use of a public road.
Negligence is a crucial factor in determining reckless driving. The law states that such a person is driving carelessly and showing no regard for the consequences.
What are the penalties for reckless driving?
Most traffic offenses are simple infractions. The government does not consider an infraction or violation a crime. Such minor mistakes do not go on a criminal record.
Reckless driving raises a moving violation to the level of a misdemeanor. A conviction might include up to 30 days in jail for a first offense and more time for subsequent offenses. Fines go up to $300 on a first offense and as high as $1,125 on a third offense. Misdemeanors also stay on one’s criminal record.
Reckless driving also puts five points on a person’s driver’s record. Motorists should keep in mind that getting 11 points in an 18-month period leads to the loss of a driver’s license. If a driver already has points on a license and receives a citation for reckless driving, this can make fighting the charge even more urgent.