A criminal defense attorney in Miami Dade is often contacted by individuals charged with reckless driving who may not understand the nature of the charges against them. A criminal defense attorney in Miami Dadewill explain all of the following information to you during a confidential consultation.

Legal Definition 

Florida defines this offense as driving a vehicle with willful or wanton disregard for the safety of others or property.

Penalties 

Reckless driving endangers the life of others. Therefore, there are harsh penalties associated with a conviction. These penalties include up to 90 days in jail and a fine up to $500 for a first time offender. A second offense carries a maximum penalty up to 180 days in jail and a fine up to $1,000. If reckless driving results in bodily harm or property damage, the penalty is up to five years in jail and a fine up to $5,000.

Difference in Careless Driving 

A lower offense is careless driving, which consists of unsafe driving like speeding or weaving through traffic but that does not involve the “wanton disregard” component. This offense is usually based on careless driving behaviors or accidental mistakes. This type of offense can often be dismissed if a person attends traffic school. If given this option, a defendant may be able to avoid having points accumulated on his or her driving record, saving money on inflated insurance costs. An experienced lawyer can try to reduce a reckless driving charge to a careless driving charge, if possible, so that the defendant’s possible consequences are less serious.