Reckless driving is a charge that can fit a wide variety of traffic violations. It is sort of a catch-all charge that is within a police officer’s discretion. However, a reckless driving charge is a very serious matter. For starters, it will add four points to your driving record. Additionally, you could be required to serve jail time and pay a hefty fine. For these reasons, it is almost always worthwhile to fight a reckless driving charge. The skilled criminal defense attorneys at The Turner Firm can protect your rights and fight to reduce the penalties for a reckless driving charge.
What are the penalties for reckless driving?
Under Georgia law, reckless driving is defined as the operation of a motor vehicle in an aggressive and dangerous manner intended to annoy, endanger, harass, injure or harm another person. Reckless driving is a misdemeanor. That means that if you’re convicted of reckless driving, you could be faced with up to one year in jail plus a fine up to $1,000. Additionally, you could be sentenced to probation or be required to complete a certain number of hours of community service. Even more significantly, if you’re convicted of reckless driving, you will have a criminal conviction on your permanent criminal record. Anyone who runs a background check on you will be able to discover your criminal history. This can impact your ability to apply for certain jobs as well as your eligibility for certain loans and housing.
Reckless driving will also add four points to your driving record. For anyone under the age of 21, four points will result in the automatic suspension of your driver’s license. Additionally, four points will significantly increase your insurance premiums, and your rates can remain elevated for as long as seven years.
Can I fight a reckless driving charge?
Yes! Not only can you fight a reckless driving charge, it is almost always in your best interest to do so.If you’re interested in discussing the options for your case, the skilled criminal defense attorneys at The Turner Firm can help. We offer a no-cost consultation. Call today to learn how we can help you!