Orlando Reckless Driving Lawyer

Although reckless driving charges are most often brought against male motorists who are between 17 and 24 years of age, anyone can be charged with this offense. The difference between other criminal offenses and the offense of reckless driving is that the focus is not the actual behavior, but the intent or thought behind the driver's actions. Because of this, it is often difficult for the state to prove the defendant is guilty, although reckless driving is a fairly common offense. At Adams, Luka, & Benton, we know the implications of a conviction for any offense go further than fines or potential jail time. No one wants his or her reputation and career ruined, or a permanent criminal record. We urge you to contact us now for skilled legal guidance.

One thing you must be aware of - reckless driving is not an ordinary traffic citation, but a crime. Many people are not aware that because they are not placed under arrest by police, they are still being cited for committing a criminal offense! Ultimately, improper handling of the situation could result in a criminal conviction, or possibly even jail time. Reckless driving occurs when the accused individual drives in a manner that indicates his or her willful or intentional disregard for the safety of other people or others' property. While driving at high speeds, running red lights or stop signs, and driving in an erratic manner are certainly aspects of reckless driving, the offense of speeding on its own does not constitute this offense.

In an attempt to prove reckless driving, prosecutors often rely on the testimony given by police; essentially, the testimony of the police officer may be what is used to determine your fate. Unfortunately, one police officer's perception of what constitutes reckless driving may be different from another's. It could be that you should have been ticketed simply for speeding or careless driving, rather than the criminal offense of reckless driving.

The defense our Orlando reckless driving defense lawyers develop in any particular case depend on several factors, including whether an accident occurred, whether anyone was injured, whether drugs or alcohol were involved, whether there was property damage, or whether it was simply a case of speeding or careless driving rather than reckless driving.

In Florida, you may be charged with one of four types of reckless driving. These include:

• First Offense Reckless Driving
• Reckless Driving with a Prior Conviction
• Reckless Driving Causing Serious Bodily Injury
• Reckless Driving Causing Property Damage

The penalties you face if found guilty depend on the offense you were charged with.

A first offense reckless driving conviction may result in:

• A maximum of 90 days in jail
• A maximum of six months probation
• Fine of up to $500
• Or any combination of the above

If convicted of reckless driving with a prior conviction, the penalties may include:

• A maximum of six (6) months in jail
• A maximum of six (6) months probation
• Fines of up to $500 (a minimum $50 fine will be imposed)
• Or any combination of the above

Reckless driving causing property damage will result in:

• A maximum of one (1) year in jail
• A maximum of one (1) year probation
• Fines of up to $1,000
• Or any combination of the above

Reckless driving causing serious bodily injury may result in the following penalties if convicted:

• A maximum of five (5) years in prison
• A maximum of five (5) years probation
• Fines of up to $5,000
• Or any combination of the above

As you can see, the criminal penalties for a conviction of reckless driving are serious, and should not be taken lightly.

As experienced Orlando reckless driving lawyers, we know that many people are charged with this offense when they should have actually been cited for a civil infraction such as speeding or careless driving. Regardless of your circumstances, it is vital that you consult with a capable and qualified attorney at once, so that work can begin to protect your legal rights, freedom, and reputation. We are ready to fight on your behalf, so contact us now for a free consultation at (407) 872-0307 or (352) 787-2101.