Reckless driving is often described as wanton disregard for the rules and laws of driving. Across the United States, the rate of reckless drivers is 18 per 10K. However, it’s important to remember that laws about what qualifies as reckless driving differs within each state.
So, what is considered reckless driving? Continue reading to find a reckless driving guide!
Reckless Driving Explained
As previously mentioned, each state (and sometimes local authority) has differing definitions of reckless driving. Some may call it careless driving or dangerous driving.
Regardless, it is often determined to be an intentional act. This type of behavior is illegal and comes with a multitude of potential consequences.
Basic Guidelines
Certain acts can be classified as reckless driving immediately. Common acts across the country might include:
- Running stop signs or traffic lights
- Excessive speeding (Driving 25+ mph over the speed limit)
- Failure to yield for other vehicles or pedestrians
- Racing
- Driving under the influence
- Passing a stopped school bus
- Texting while driving
- Evading law enforcement
- Passing on a two-lane highway that has limited visibility or over a double yellow line
Penalties for Reckless Driving
It is one of the more serious driving violations and is typically classified as a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor is a criminal offense. It’s often punishable by less than 12 months in jail, fines, community service, and/or probation.
You could lose your driving privileges over these types of charges. You may also have your vehicle impounded.
Unrelated to legal penalties, you risk many other issues. This includes putting yourself and others at risk of injury due to collisions. When accidents are involved, there will likely be much more serious punishments.
Issues With Auto Insurance
In addition to the many possible penalties, you may find trouble with your auto insurance. A reckless driving conviction can severely increase your insurance rates. This makes you a high-risk driver in the eyes of the insurance company and may prevent you from obtaining coverage.
Help After Getting a Citation
In terms of reckless driving tips, the most important thing to do is to get help. If you have been cited with a reckless driving ticket, it’s in your best interest to contact an experienced defense attorney as soon as you can.
Click here to find a professional who can help you. These experts can help you navigate the process and potentially lessen the penalties or avoid conviction altogether.
Wrap Up: What Is Considered Reckless Driving?
Now that we’ve answered “what is considered reckless driving”, you can better assess your situation. If you haven’t been cited for reckless driving, you can use this as a guide on how to avoid it in the future. When you have been cited, it’s best to get help from an attorney as soon as possible. Be sure to check your state and local specifications about reckless driving.
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