There are many ways for people to violate traffic laws. Many drivers regularly speed. People text while driving, turn without using their turn signals and perform rolling stops at red lights. In cases where people cause crashes or where police officers witness their traffic violations, a driver might be at risk of receiving a ticket. In some circumstances, police officers may even accuse them of committing a crime in traffic.
Unlike a simple speeding offense or other minor traffic infractions, reckless driving is actually a crime. It is usually a misdemeanor offense that can result in a criminal record. When officers accuse motorists of reckless driving, they may be at risk of criminal prosecution or a variety of penalties if they plead guilty.
State law provides for several penalties
Typically, there are guidelines that apply to various types of crimes that the courts interpret on a case-by-case basis. Factors including the prior record of the driver accused and the circumstances leading to the charges may influence exactly what penalties the courts impose.
Most reckless driving allegations result in misdemeanor charges. If the state can prove that a motorist failed to employ a reasonable degree of care while operating a vehicle, the driver could be at risk of serious consequences.
As a Class 2 misdemeanor offense, reckless driving can lead to several criminal penalties. The courts can sentence a motorist to up to 60 days in jail. They can order the driver to pay up to $1,000 in fines. The motorists may also need to pay court costs and could face dramatically increased insurance expenses after their conviction.
Thankfully, there are a variety of ways for drivers to effectively respond to reckless driving allegations. There could be an explanation for driving that seemed unsafe to a police officer, or perhaps the entire situation resulted from a misunderstanding.
Hiring an attorney can help motorists evaluate their charges and develop a reasonable defense strategy. Motorists who fight claims that they committed traffic violations can potentially avoid criminal penalties and a criminal record that could turn up whenever they are subject to a background check in the future.