Driving recklessly is highly dangerous, but it’s simple to fall into if you’re not being watchful and careful while driving. Driving recklessly may include tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and going too fast. Depending on the outcome, there may be severe penalties if caught.
Any person operating a vehicle recklessly is defined as having a conscious disregard for the safety or property of others in Florida. In Florida, reckless driving is a misdemeanor that, in severe cases, can result in jail time. For most offenses, there is a $500 fine, a maximum of 90 days in jail, or both. These fees will double for a subsequent offense. You may need a Miami traffic ticket lawyer even if there was no property damage or injuries. Some cases may result in charges which are considered third-degree felonies. You could get up to five years in jail and a $5,000 fine.
Although the terms reckless and careless driving are frequently used interchangeably, they are not the same. Speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, and tailgating may be elements of reckless driving; however, reckless driving also includes “disregard” for other road users. Although careless driving charges are used for essentially unintentional accidents, they may still appear on your record. If you believe that these charges were imposed upon you without justification, a Miami expungement lawyer can assist you in contesting them.
These offenses typically carry a fine of $179 to $500 along with court costs. You will also accrue license points; the majority of moving traffic infractions result in 3 points, accidents result in 4 points, but reckless driving typically results in 6 points. A withhold of adjudication allows you to prevent the offense from appearing on your record. This may only be available, though, if it was the first offense and there were no property damages or injuries to others.
For more information on a Miami traffic lawyer or a red light camera lawyer, contact Hochman & Goldin, P.A. today.