By Michelle 
Even though each state defines these offenses in different ways a person could be subject to fines up to thousands of dollars or time in jail if they are convicted. This information will help you make the best decision about your case.
If you have been charged with reckless driving, it is important to seek legal help. A reckless driving lawyer can help you understand the charges against you and help build a defense. A lawyer can also help you negotiate a settlement or take your case to trial if necessary.
Reckless Driving Defined
Also known as “driving To Endanger” in some states, reckless driving is defined as a driving offense that involves someone driving with a disregard for others. Each state will have different levels and types of reckless-driving crimes. If convicted, the sentences could be severed based upon factors like passing school buses, speeding, and other dangerous activities.
Is Reckless Driving Equivalent To A DUI?
DUI or DWI are two different criminal charges that come with severe penalties. The driving offenses can be separated by the state to emphasize the harmful effects that alcohol or drugs have on public health and safety. Reckless drivers are a more broad crime that may encompass many different behavior types, while DWI/DUI can be based on a measurable amount of intoxication supported by scientific methods like breathalyzers, blood tests, and breathalyzers. A DUI defendant may be able to negotiate a plea agreement with the state prosecution to reduce the DUI charge to reckless driving, which carries less punishment.
How Is Reckless Driving Punished?
Most states define reckless driving as a Misdemeanor. You could face fines of several hundred to even thousands of dollars and a minimum of three months in prison if you are convicted. Some states could charge reckless driving and aggravating factors with felonies.
The conviction will also go on the person’s driving records. This is important if you are in a state that has traffic violation points systems. It can affect the price of your car insurance and lead to license suspensions. Some states require driver safety or improvement programs.
What You Need To Know Regarding Misdemeanors As Well As Constitutional Rights
Even if they do not have the means to pay for a lawyer, criminal defendants can access legal counsel. This applies to any defendant accused of a felony, no matter whether it is a state- or federal crime. However, misdemeanors are not automatically guaranteed the right to counsel. Supreme Court case law states, however, that the right counsel applies to certain misdemeanors which carry jail sentences. Many defendants are unaware of this.
What You Should Know About Legal Counsel In The Event Of Reckless Driving Arrests & Charges
Many defendants who are accused of reckless driving or other misdemeanors go before the court with no legal counsel. Some may feel pressured and forced to accept a plea deal by the police, or the prosecutor. They may then find out that they were sentence suspended and may face additional jail time. Others may be told to seek out the services of a public lawyer, or they might have to repay some of the costs in the form of fees and fines.
The outcome of your case can be affected by having the defense counsel present. A defendant may take advantage of a plea offer to get out of prison, but may not recognize the defenses that he may lose if he accepts it. Many people don’t know this and waive their right to counsel.