New Jersey Reckless Driving Defense Attorney

Accidents Caused by Reckless Driving

Reckless driving under N. J. S. A. 39:4-96 is charged when the police believe there has been grossly improper driving that seriously threatens people or property. Reckless driving is defined as driving, "Heedlessly, in willful or wanton disregard of the rights or safety of others, in a manner so as to endanger, or be likely to endanger, a person or property...." Reckless conduct entails a conscious disregard of a substantial and known risk that amounts to a gross deviation from the standard of conduct that a reasonable person would follow under the same circumstances. Reckless driving is often charged when an accident has occurred or in connection with another offense, such as speeding, improper lane changing, running a red light, hit & run, careless driving or driving under the influence of alcohol [DUI].

A reckless driving conviction carries a fine of from $50 to $200 for a first offense and from $100 to $500 for a second or subsequent offense. The fine will be doubled when the violation occurs in a construction zone or safe corridor zone, or in a 65 MPH speed zone. The Court may impose a jail sentence of up to 60 days for a first offense and up to three months for a second or subsequent offense. A Court also has the power to suspend an operator's driving privileges for reckless driving if the Court finds that the offending conduct was "willful." The more flagrant the conduct, the greater the likelihood that the Court will find the conduct willful.

The Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC), formerly known as the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), will assess 5 motor vehicle penalty points for a reckless driving conviction, and the operator's insurance company will also impose 5 insurance eligibility points. Five additional insurance eligibility points will be assessed if the driver was convicted for reckless driving in connection with an accident in which he or she was at fault and $500 or more in compensation payments were made.

The added insurance eligibility points will very likely raise the cost of the operator's liability insurance and; depending upon the operator's driving history, the motor vehicle points may put the operator's driver's license at risk, since the Motor Vehicle Commission may seek to suspend the operator's license even if the Court does not do so. For more detailed information concerning traffic ticket penalties, seek counsel from an experienced New Jersey traffic ticket lawyer from The Law Offices of Allan Marain. We also help those located in Middlesex County and New Brunswick that have been ticketed for a traffic charge.

Reducing or Dismissing Your Charges

It is also important to recognize that if a reckless driving charge was issued in connection with an accident involving personal injury or property damage, a guilty plea or finding of guilt may be used to hold the driver responsible for any loss. This can have serious financial consequences for the driver. Steps should be taken to try to resolve the case in a way that guards against this outcome.

We understand that you may have many questions and concerns regarding the consequences of being charged with reckless driving and need clear-cut answers. Our firm is here to seek a favorable outcome for you while diligently protecting your rights. We are willing to take your case to trial if it is warranted to pursue a reduction or dismissal of charges.

The information provided here is for information purposes only. It is not intended as legal advice and should not be used as such without consulting with an attorney.

Contact a New Jersey reckless driving defense attorney for proven legal help after you have been charged with a reckless driving traffic offense.