How a Reckless Driving Charge Can Impact You

Reckless driving is not just another traffic ticket. Instead, reckless driving is a criminal charge that can have far-reaching effects. A reckless driving charge could stay on your record for years. You also face the possibility of fines, suspension of your driver’s license, increased insurance premiums, and even the loss of some employment opportunities.

With so much at stake, having quality, experienced legal representation is essential. The Lebedevitch Law Firm, LLC, has years of experience defending people charged with reckless driving and other traffic violations. We are dedicated to providing superior legal representation as we guide you through the criminal legal process and work to obtain outstanding results.

The Lebedevitch Law Firm represents people facing traffic violations and other criminal charges in Fairfield and New Haven counties. Contact our law office today to schedule an appointment to discuss your situation and how we can help.

Understanding Reckless Driving Charges in CT

Reckless driving occurs when a person drives: (1) at a speed that endangers others; (2) a commercial vehicle with the gears or clutch disengaged; (3) a defective vehicle; or (4) faster than 85 mph.

Reckless driving is more than just speeding. It involves a conscious choice to drive in a way that endangers others. In addition to excessive speed, examples of reckless driving include distracted driving behaviors like holding a mobile phone while driving or eating while driving which causes poor control of the vehicle.

What Are the Legal Consequences of a Reckless Driving Conviction?

In Connecticut, reckless driving is a misdemeanor, punishable by a $200 fine, possible suspension of your driver’s license, points on your driver’s license, and up to 30 days in jail.

Are There Additional Consequences to a Reckless Driving Charge?

In addition to the legal consequences, a conviction for reckless driving can have far-reaching, adverse effects that could impact you for years.

A Criminal Record

Because Connecticut categorizes reckless driving as a misdemeanor rather than a traffic violation, a conviction for reckless driving becomes part of your criminal record. When you have a criminal record, you could experience:

• Difficulty finding employment, especially jobs that require you to drive.
• Loss of your current employment, especially if your job requires driving.
• Being categorized as a habitual offender if you are ever charged with a crime in the future.

Financial Repercussions

A reckless driving conviction can also lead to increased insurance premiums. Insurance companies use proprietary formulas to calculate insurance rates. These formulas generally include an evaluation of a person’s driving record. Because a conviction for reckless driving is generally seen as a sign of a driver who takes risks and is more likely to be involved in an accident or cause damage, your insurance company will likely increase your insurance rates if you are convicted of reckless driving.

What To Do If You Were Charged with Reckless Driving

Reckless driving is a serious offense that carries severe consequences. If you are stopped on suspicion of reckless driving, we recommend taking the following steps to protect yourself and your rights:

1. Remain calm and be polite. Do your best to remain calm and be polite when interacting with the police. Arguing will only make the situation worse, and you risk saying something that could be used to incriminate you.
2. Contact a criminal defense attorney. The Lebedevitch Law Firm can evaluate your circumstances, explain the potential consequences, and build a compelling defense against reckless driving charges.
3. Understand the charges. Reckless driving is a serious offense, and you must understand the nature of the charges, the specifics of your situation, and how a conviction could affect you.
4. Gather evidence. Our office can work to gather witness statements and video footage that can be used to defend against a reckless driving charge.

How The Lebedevitch Law Firm Can Help

Stephen Lebedevitch has over a decade of experience defending people charged with traffic violations and other serious crimes. He can help you avoid some of the most severe penalties of a reckless driving charge. He can carefully analyze your circumstances, gather evidence, and develop a compelling legal defense to ensure an optimal outcome in your case.

Contact The Lebedevitch Law Firm Today

Contact The Lebedevitch Law Firm, LLC, today to schedule an appointment to discuss your situation and how we can help.