Reckless Driving Defense in Pennsylvania
Reckless driving is a serious charge in Pennsylvania. A person facing this charge could be subject to jail time, fines, a license suspension, and other penalties. Contact our criminal defense attorney team if you have been charged with reckless driving.
What is the definition of reckless driving in Pennsylvania?
Reckless driving in Pennsylvania is defined as when a driver operates a motor vehicle with a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. It is when a person should be able to assess the danger of their actions and they choose to drive in a dangerous manner.
What is the Pennsylvania reckless driving law?
Pennsylvania statute 75 § 3736 is the reckless driving law. The law prohibits operating in a willful or wanton manner, disregarding the safety of people or property.
How is reckless driving punished in Pennsylvania?
Reckless driving in Pennsylvania carries the following penalties:
- Summary offense on your traffic record and criminal record
- A $200 fine
- Enhanced fine of $400 if the offense occurs in a construction or work zone
- Up to 90 days in jail
- License suspension of six months
- Points on your driver’s license
A driver who is convicted of reckless driving faces a license suspension under PA Statutes 75 § 1532. It is one of the most severe license suspensions for any traffic offense.
In addition to the basic penalties for reckless driving, there are certain factors that may greatly enhance the potential penalties for reckless driving. While 90 days in jail is possible for any reckless driving offense, the jail time becomes mandatory if an injury occurs because of reckless driving. The fine is raised to $1,000.
For reckless driving resulting in death, the defendant must pay a fine of $25,000. The mandatory minimum jail time is one year. A criminal defense attorney can represent the person charged to fight the allegations and minimize consequences.
What is careless driving?
Careless driving is a disregard for the safety of persons or property. It is not as serious as reckless driving. Careless driving is a violation of PA Statutes 75 § 3714. There are still significant penalties for careless driving, but they are less severe than the possible penalties for reckless driving.
Should I fight charges of reckless driving?
Reckless driving is a serious criminal offense. A criminal defense attorney can help you respond to the charges. You face jail time, a license suspension, and significant fines. If you have a commercial driver’s license, a conviction can be devastating to your livelihood.
Our attorneys represent people facing reckless driving charges. There are things that you can do to fight back and make the situation better. A charge by itself is not a conviction.
Contact Us Today
You have a right to respond to the charges and evaluate the evidence against you. Our attorneys for reckless driving charges are here to help you respond to the charges and represent you in the best possible way throughout the process. Contact us, and we can start working on your case today.
