Reckless driving is no laughing matter. This traffic violation carries considerable legal ramifications in New York. Distinct from standard traffic offenses, this infraction is categorized as a criminal offense. This means a conviction can result in hefty fines, time behind bars, demerit points on your driving record, and other sanctions that could jeopardize future prospects. Please continue reading to understand how reckless driving changes are handled in New York, and contact our dedicated Suffolk County Reckless Driving Lawyers for guidance.

What Is Considered Reckless Driving in New York?

Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1212, reckless driving occurs when a motorist operates a motor vehicle in a manner that “unreasonably interferes with the use of the roadway or endangers other people or property.” Given this broad definition, law enforcement has a lot of leeway in deciding what is considered reckless driving. This means you can still get charged even if you didn’t mean to operate your vehicle dangerously.  

Examples of reckless driving behavior include: 

  • Excessive speeding 
  • Aggressive lane changes 
  • Street racing 
  • Passing on the shoulder or sidewalk
  • Ignoring traffic signals or road conditions 
  • Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
  • Fleeing from law enforcement 

What Are the Potential Penalties of Reckless Driving? 

Reckless driving is a serious traffic offense in New York that carries harsh legal penalties. The severity of the penalties escalates for repeat offenders. Reckless driving is an unclassified misdemeanor (disorderly persons offense), so a conviction means you’ll have a permanent criminal record. The repercussions include: 

  • Fines and Surcharges: 
      • First Offense: You can face fines ranging from $100 to $300. 
      • Second Offense (within 18 months): You can face fines increased to $100-$525. 
      • Third Offense (within 18 months): You can face fines that reach $100-$1,125.
  • Jail Time: 
    • First Offense: You can face up to 30 days behind bars. 
    • Second Offense: You can face up to 90 days behind bars. 
    • Third Offense: You can face up to 180 days behind bars. 
  • Demerit Points: A reckless driving conviction can result in up to 5 points being added to your driving record, which significantly increases the likelihood of suspension. 
  • Loss of Driving Privileges: Multiple offenses or additional traffic violations may lead to the suspension or outright revocation of your driver’s license. 
  • Increased Insurance Premiums: Insurance carriers consider reckless driving a high-risk offense, often resulting in higher premium rates or policy cancellation.
  • DMV Driver Responsibility Assessment (DRA) Fee: Accumulating 6 or more points within 18 months triggers an additional DMV assessment fee of $300, plus $75 for every point over six. 

Given the far-reaching penalties of reckless driving, it is in your best interest to contact an attorney at Castro & Trodden, LLC. Our legal team is prepared to evaluate your case, contest the charges, and advocate for the best possible outcome. Connect with our firm today to schedule a consultation.