Reckless driving

In United States law, reckless driving is a major moving traffic violation. It is usually a more serious offense than careless driving, improper driving, or driving without due care and attention and is often punishable by fines, imprisonment, or driver's license suspension or revocation. (List specific to the USA.)

Reckless driving is often defined as a mental state in which the driver displays a wanton disregard for the rules of the road; the driver misjudges common driving procedures, often causing accidents and other damages. Reckless driving has been studied by psychologists who found that reckless drivers score high in risk-taking personality traits. However, no one cause can be assigned to this state.

There are some states, such as Virginia, where mental state is not considered, but rather a set of more than a dozen specific violations can be deemed reckless. Excessive speed by itself is sufficient for a reckless driving conviction in some jurisdictions (e.g., Virginia). Because of the seriousness of the charge (excepting Virginia's definitions) reckless driving may be equated to DUI by rental agencies and preclude the offender from renting a car for several years after the conviction).

Amended Sec. 19, Ch. 739, Stats. 2001. Effective January 1, 2002.

Amended Ch. 216, Stats. 1984. Effective January 1, 1985.

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O.C.G.A. § 40-6-390. Reckless Driving

commits a Class B misdemeanor.

Reckless Driving in New York is not a non-criminal "petty offense" or "traffic infraction." Reckless Driving is a "misdemeanor" and therefore a "crime." A conviction for Reckless Driving is a conviction for a crime and such a conviction results in a permanent criminal record. Other than in the New York City Criminal Court, an adult defendant has a right to a jury trial for all misdemeanors, including Reckless Driving. If convicted of Reckless Driving, a defendant must be sentenced to up to 30 days in jail (up to 90 or 180 days for certain repeat offenders) and/or a fine of up to $300 plus a court surcharge of at least $70. Additionally, if convicted, the DMV will assess 5 points on your driving record. [30] [31] [32] [33] [34]

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