Driving can be a frustrating daily task. Those who have a long commute to work or who spend hours transporting their children to after-school activities every week may become impatient on the road. Some people routinely exceed the posted speed limit because they want to minimize their drive times.
Other people become so comfortable about driving that they engage in behavior that has a strong association with increased collision risk. Certain behaviors violate traffic statutes and may lead to citations. In more serious cases, police officers might arrest someone due to reckless driving allegations.
Excessive speeding and other behavior that indicates a disregard for the safety of others or impairs their ability to safely use the roads may constitute reckless driving in New York. What are the potential penalties for reckless driving in New York?
Reckless driving doesn’t just lead to a ticket
Most traffic violations result in citations issued by police officers. However, state statutes do authorize police officers to arrest people in scenarios involving more serious traffic violations. As a misdemeanor offense, reckless driving can lead to a criminal record, not just driver’s license points. A conviction for reckless driving can lead to a variety of penalties.
A first reckless driving conviction can lead to up to 30 days in jail, a $300 fine, five points on the driver’s license of the person convicted and fees. A second offense can lead to 90 days in jail and $525 in fines. Anyone convicted of a third reckless driving offense could face up to 180 days in jail and $1,125 in fines.
How do people fight reckless driving charges?
There are many potential responses to reckless driving allegations. Since the charges are somewhat based on subjective perception, drivers can provide an explanation for their conduct.
With the right support, those accused of reckless driving offenses might be able to avoid a conviction. In some cases, an attorney could negotiate an arrangement in which they only face a standard traffic citation. Other times, it may be possible to avoid pleading guilty to even a simple traffic offense. A review of the situation that led to charges can facilitate a proper defense strategy.
Understanding the serious consequences of reckless driving allegations can help drivers choose how to respond to a charge. Reckless driving is typically much more serious than a basic traffic citation.
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