Typical traffic violations, such as exceeding the speed limit, are not generally regarded as criminal charges. They are punishable by fine and are typically heard by a traffic court. Reckless driving, however, is normally treated as a criminal charge.
A person who is charged with reckless driving typically should avoid entering a guilty plea. As a criminal charge, pleading guilty could negatively impact a person’s life. Typically, a guilty plea and a subsequent conviction creates a criminal record for a person who may not have previously had one, or potentially could worsen a person’s standing with the law. A conviction could lead to drastically increased insurance rates, fines and even jail time. A Broward County reckless driving lawyer may help mitigate the consequences of a reckless driving charge.
Consult a skilled traffic attorney who may be able to advise you on different legal options. In Broward County, reckless driving is considered a serious offense and may greatly impact your freedom. Contact a Broward County reckless driving lawyer to learn more.
What is Reckless Driving?
According to Florida law, a person who operates a vehicle with “willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property” may be charged with reckless driving. A conviction for this offense typically carries a maximum penalty of 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.
The punishment for a reckless driving conviction traditionally will be more severe when a person is seriously injured as a result of a driver’s recklessness. In extreme cases, a defendant may be sentenced to up to 5 years in prison and fined in an amount up to $5,000. If property damage is caused by reckless driving, a defendant may be required to pay for those damages as well.
Fighting a Reckless Driving Charge in Broward County
Facing a reckless driving charge can feel extremely intimidating and a person may feel like their options are limited. There are several ways in which a Broward County reckless driving attorney can assist a person charged with reckless driving. In reckless driving cases, a lawyer may argue that a defendant did not act intentionally, or with “wanton” disregard for the safety of others.
Another way an attorney may help advocate is working to negotiate a plea agreement for a lesser offense. A lawyer could possibly help mitigate potential penalties of a conviction for reckless driving. This may include petitioning the court to allow a driver to complete a driver’s education program. With the approval of the court and upon completion of such a course, a reckless driving charge could be dismissed.
Understanding legal options while facing a reckless driving charge may be significant to the welfare of your case. Contact a Broward County reckless driving lawyer who could provide advice and discuss your legal options.
Contacting an Attorney for Careless Driving Offenses
Another related charge which Broward County drivers may encounter is careless driving. While this charge is typically viewed as a lesser offense than reckless driving, it remains a criminal charge. A driver may be considered careless if they operate a vehicle with disregard for “width, grade, curves, corners, traffic, and all other attendant circumstances.” Careless driving is generally still worth fighting in court.
If you are charged with reckless driving, contact an experienced Broward County attorney. Many circumstances and factors may surround your case, and a criminal defense attorney may help provide clarity. Consult a Broward County reckless driving lawyer who could examine your case and potentially help establish a credible defense. Call and schedule a free initial consultation with Leifert & Leifert.
