Florida Reckless Driving Penalties Attorney
In Florida, reckless driving is a criminal charge rather than a traffic offense. If you have been charged with reckless driving, you will have to appear in court. If you are convicted, you could pay a fine of up to $500 for a first offense. A conviction will also result in four points on your driver's license and a permanent criminal misdemeanor record.
At The Umansky Law Firm, our Orlando reckless driving lawyers are here to protect your driver's license and your liberty if you have been arrested for this charge. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case.
What Is Reckless Driving?
Florida's racing and reckless driving statute defines reckless driving as driving a vehicle in a manner that exhibits "willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property." Fleeing a law enforcement officer in a motor vehicle is also considered reckless driving and may also be charged as a felony fleeing and eluding charge.
The charge of reckless driving often comes down to the word and perception of the arresting police. Sometimes people get charged with reckless driving simply for being negligent. However, to convict you, the prosecutor must show that you were willfully driving in a reckless manner An experienced defense lawyer can keep you from being railroaded based on the opinion of one police officer.
Our experience as former prosecutors allows us to give you an honest evaluation of your case so that you will know your options from the start.
Florida Reckless Driving Penalties
Drag racing, street racing or racing on highways is a first-degree misdemeanor in Florida, subject to the following penalties.
| Reckless Driving Offense | Penalties |
| First offense |
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| Second offense |
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| Reckless driving resulting in damage to property |
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| Reckless driving resulting in injury to someone else |
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If the court has reasonable cause to believe that alcohol or chemical substances contributed to the violation, you will be required to complete a DUI education course and evaluation. Beyond these criminal penalties, your insurance company can increase your insurance rates substantially or cancel your insurance.
Do You Need a Second Chance? Contact Us Day or Night.
To schedule a free initial consultation with an Orlando reckless driving lawyer at The Umansky Law Firm, contact us through this website or call (407) 228-3838.
