Kern County Reckless Driving Attorney

Defending Reckless Driving Citations in California

Reckless driving can refer to a multitude of things, such as speeding, racing, road rage, and other dangerous behaviors. Unlike most traffic laws, reckless driving isn't as strictly defined, as it has to deal more with a person’s actions in conjunction with their mental state. However, California generally defines reckless driving as:

"The intentional disregard for the safety of others, or their property, while displaying an overall disregard for the rules of the road."

This also applies to an exhibition of speed, which can also be classified as street racing. Exhibitions of speed are defined as intentionally driving recklessly at a high rate of speed in general, in a contest, or in order to impress another individual.

What are the Penalties For Reckless Driving in California?

Reckless driving is usually charged as a misdemeanor offense which accompanies a fine that is up to $2,500 dollars as well as up to 2 years of probation and/or up to six months in prison.

A reckless driving charge comes with 2 to 8 points added onto your license, depending on the situation, and will likely result in an increase in car insurance.

It is also important to be aware that at times a judge/officer might impose stricter regulations such as the impounding of your car for up to 30 days and/or the loss of license for a period of up to six months.

When is Reckless Driving a Felony?

While many times reckless driving is seen as a misdemeanor offense, it can also be classified as a felony offense if certain conditions are met. In particular, if injuries are inflicted upon another, and it falls under a certain category of injury, one might be subject to a felony charge. These injuries include:

• Concussions
• Loss of consciousness
• Bone fractures
• Brain injuries
• Paralysis

These felony charges come with the added penalty of up to 16 months to 3 years in jail. This is referred to as a “wobbler” because a judge can choose to charge someone with a felony or a misdemeanor in these cases.

Understanding the Long-Term Impact of Reckless Driving Charges

Facing a reckless driving charge can be daunting, not just because of the immediate legal repercussions, but also due to the long-term implications it may have on your life. At Bigger & Harman, APC, we believe it's essential for our clients to understand how these charges can affect various aspects of their future.

Here are some critical factors to consider:

• Insurance Premium Increases: A reckless driving conviction can lead to significantly higher auto insurance rates, sometimes doubling or tripling your current premiums.
• Employment Opportunities: Certain professions require clean driving records. A conviction may limit your job prospects or even result in job loss.
• Personal Reputation: Legal troubles can affect your standing in the community and relationships with family and friends.
• Future Legal Issues: A reckless driving conviction may lead to more severe penalties for future traffic violations, making it crucial to address the current charge effectively.

By understanding these long-term consequences, you can make informed decisions about your defense strategy. Our experienced attorneys at Bigger & Harman, APC are dedicated to protecting your rights and helping you navigate the complexities of reckless driving charges. Contact us today to discuss your case and explore your options.

How To Defend Against Reckless Driving Charges

While every case is unique, some common defenses against reckless driving charges may include:

• Lack of Intent or Willful Disregard: Reckless driving often requires a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of others. If you can demonstrate that your actions were not intentional or that you did not exhibit a willful disregard for safety, it may help your case.
• Emergency Situations: If you can prove that you were responding to an emergency or taking evasive action to avoid a serious accident, it may be a valid defense. Make sure you can provide evidence supporting the existence of an emergency.
• Mistaken Identity: If there's a chance of mistaken identity, you may be able to argue that you were not the person responsible for the reckless driving behavior.
• Challenging Evidence: We may challenge the evidence presented against you. This could include questioning the accuracy of radar or speed gun readings, the credibility of witnesses, or the legality of the traffic stop.
• Procedural Errors: If there were procedural errors at the time of the traffic stop or arrest, such as the lack of probable cause, your attorney may use this as a defense.

Why Choose Bigger & Harman, APC for Your Reckless Driving Defense?

When facing reckless driving charges, the stakes are high. Choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. At Bigger & Harman, APC, our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of California traffic laws and are committed to providing you with personalized, aggressive defense strategies tailored to your unique situation.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Proven Track Record: Our team has successfully defended countless clients against reckless driving charges, achieving favorable outcomes that protect their rights and futures.
• In-Depth Knowledge: We stay updated on the latest changes in traffic laws and legal precedents, ensuring that our defense strategies are informed and effective.
• Client-Centered Approach: We prioritize open communication and transparency, keeping you informed at every step of the legal process and answering any questions you may have.
• Comprehensive Case Evaluation: We conduct thorough investigations to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong defense that addresses all aspects of your case.
• Flexible Payment Options: We understand that legal fees can be a concern, which is why we offer various payment plans to accommodate your financial situation.

Don’t leave your future to chance. Trust the dedicated team at Bigger & Harman, APC to fight for your rights and help you navigate the complexities of your reckless driving case. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward securing your peace of mind.

Contact Our Kern County Reckless Driving Lawyers Today

At Bigger & Harman, APC. we understand that ticket violations can happen any time of the day or night and it is because of this that we are always available for our clients. Reckless driving in particular is an extremely obscure charge that depends on the situation of the incident, determining the penalties that range in severity. If you have been charged with a reckless driving charge, contact our Kern County traffic ticket lawyers today for experienced representation you can depend on.