Reckless driving is a very serious offense and may lead to fines, suspension of license, or even jail time in Arizona. The act may involve excessive speeding, reckless maneuvers, or endangering others. Understanding the charges in Arizona and acting immediately can help in dealing with it.
A reckless driving lawyer in Arizona can review your case, collect evidence, and get lower penalties. Having a lawyer makes a difference, particularly in the case of serious penalties such as license suspension or increased insurance premiums.
What Is Reckless Driving?
Reckless driving is a charge of driving an automobile in reckless disregard of other people’s safety. The specific legal definition varies from state to state or country to country, but some of the typical activities likely to bring a charge of reckless driving include:
- Excessive Speeding – Driving far above the posted speed limit, especially in dangerous conditions.
- Aggressive Driving – Weaving in and out of traffic lanes, tailgating, or cutting off other vehicles.
- Disregarding Traffic Lights – Passing red lights or stop signs in a manner that puts other people in harm’s way.
- Street Racing – Taking part in unauthorized street racing on public roads.
- Driving Under the Influence – Although DUI is considered a separate charge, reckless driving may be charged as a secondary offense in cases where impairment leads to unsafe behavior.
- Evading Law Enforcement – Attempting to elude a police officer.
In the majority of cases, reckless driving is a misdemeanor but may be elevated to a felony if it results in injury, death, or severe property damage.
Steps to Take If You Are Charged with Reckless Driving
- Stay Calm
When stopped and ticketed for reckless driving, remain courteous and calm. Do not fight with the cops, as it will only create more problems. Provide the information they ask for (license, registration, insurance) and comply with their instructions.
- Be Familiar with the Charges Filed Against You
After being charged, read the ticket or police report carefully to learn the charges. Reckless driving laws vary, and having the precise offense on hand will help you determine your next steps.
- Seek Legal Representation
Since reckless driving is often a criminal offense, hiring a traffic lawyer or criminal defense attorney is highly recommended. A lawyer can assess the case’s strength against you, argue for lower penalties or charges, and represent you in court if necessary.
- Gather Evidence to Support Your Case
If you believe the accusation is not true or unreasonable, collect evidence pertaining to your defense. Dashcam video could refute the officer’s accusations, and witness statements from passengers or pedestrians could enhance your defense. Weather conditions that necessitated certain responses could also be used as a good defense.
- Attend Your Court Hearing
Drunken driving offenses typically involve a mandatory court appearance, and not showing up can lead to additional sanctions, including arrest warrants. If you happen to have an attorney, he or she can represent you in certain circumstances without your presence.
- Consider Plea Bargains or Defensive Driving Classes
Prosecutors can provide a plea bargain to lower the charge to a lesser crime, e.g., careless driving. Also, taking a defensive driving course can lower fines or keep points from being placed on your driving record.
- Prepare for Potential Consequences
Punishments for reckless driving vary but can involve fines of several hundreds to thousands of dollars, license suspension for a period, and significantly increased car insurance costs. In the worst cases, reckless driving can involve prison time, especially if it hurts other individuals.
