What if I get a Reckless Driving Ticket in Northern New Jersey?

 

Reckless Driving Ticket Lawyer Passaic and Bergen County

Reckless Driving is a serious ticket. Hiring an intelligent defense lawyer is an important step in protecting your rights. If convicted you could face fines, fees, license suspension, and in some instances possible jail time. 

The reckless driving statute is similar to the careless driving statute. However, the penalties are more severe.

What Constitutes Reckless Driving

Reckless Driving is defined by N.J.S.A. 39:4-96 as a person who drives a vehicle heedlessly, in willful or wanton disregard of the rights or safety of others (the driver must be consciously aware that his actions pose a risk to the public), in a manner so as to endanger or be likely to endanger a person or property.

 

What Does This Mean?

If you were driving dangerously and were aware that you were driving dangerously you can be found guilty of reckless driving. The prosecutor needs to prove both of these elements in order for a conviction. Awareness is not easy to prove, and an experienced attorney will raise doubts concerning your state of mind and awareness of the danger.

Penalties

For a first offense:

• 5 points on the driving record
• Possible imprisonment up to 60 days
• A maximum fine of $200
• The possibility of a suspended license

For a second or subsequent offense:

• Excess fines up to $500
• Possible jail time up to 90 days
• Possible license suspension

Although license suspension is not required following a reckless driving conviction, the courts may at their discretion suspend a driver's license for an indefinite period of time.

Charges of reckless driving, especially when combined with other charges, can be difficult to navigate and legal representation is really important. 

  

Need help resolving your legal case?

Call the Law Offices of David L. Pine to schedule a confidential consultation. He can be reached at (973) 427-7444.