Tens of thousands of car accidents occur in New York every year. Many of these collisions are caused by unsafe driving practices. Based on the statistics, it’s no surprise that New York courts take reckless driving offenses quite seriously. Are you a Long Island driver? Are you wondering if reckless driving is considered a crime where you live? No need to worry because our knowledgeable law firm has all the answers you’re looking for! Continue reading this blog to learn more about these types of offenses, or reach out to a Nassau County Reckless Driving Lawyer for individualized legal counseling.
IS RECKLESS DRIVING A CRIME IN NEW YORK?
Yes, reckless driving is considered a criminal offense in New York courts. Reckless driving leads to far too many preventable car collisions, so getting caught breaking traffic laws can lead to severe penalties. In fact, reckless driving is a misdemeanor in our state. The law states that reckless driving is when someone breaks a traffic law intended to prevent accidents or otherwise practices unsafe driving practices that a law enforcement officer deems dangerous to the general public.
WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON EXAMPLES OF RECKLESS DRIVING?
- Excessive speeding with no concern for pedestrians or other vehicles
- Tailgating or failing to keep a safe driving distance
- Running red lights or failing to come to a complete stop at a stop sign
- Improper lane passing and weaving through traffic
- Otherwise not practicing the rules of the road
WHAT PENALTIES CAN I FACE?
The consequences you face for a reckless driving charge depend on your driving history, your criminal record, and the circumstances of the incident. Similarly to other criminal offenses, repeat offenders of reckless driving are likely to face more severe penalties.
As a first-time offender, you might be given:
- Up to 30 days of jail time
- Fines up to $300, not including a $93 mandatory surcharge
- Five motor vehicle points on your driver’s license
As a second-time offender, you might be given:
- Up to 90 days of jail time
- Fines up to $525, not including a $93 mandatory surcharge
- Five motor vehicle points on your driver’s license
As a third-time (or subsequent) offender, you might be given
- Up to 180 days of jail time
- Fines up to $1,125, not including a $93 mandatory surcharge
- Five motor vehicle points on your driver’s license
If you’ve recently been charged with reckless driving in New York, you deserve a hardworking criminal defense lawyer who can fight for your best interests. Thankfully, our highly experienced legal team is on your side every step of the way! Contact the Law Office of Jacob A. Rudman today for an initial consultation.
