Don’t Let Reckless Driving Charges Affect You — Get Our Help
Have you been charged with reckless driving? Be aware that this is no ordinary traffic violation. This is a criminal charge, punishable not only with fines and points against your driver’s license, but also with up to 60 days in jail. If you want to avoid jail and all other repercussions, hiring a lawyer at The Murphy Law Group should be your first step.
Our law firm features a former prosecutor, attorney Kevin Murphy, who knows how to hold prosecutors up to the burden of proof and how to fight charges like reckless driving.
Reckless Driving Vs. Careless Driving
People often use the terms reckless driving and careless driving interchangeably, even though they are two different traffic infractions. Police officers may even charge people with reckless driving when careless driving would have been more appropriate.
Reckless driving is defined under Florida law as driving with willful or wanton disregard for the safety of other people or property. Simply driving too fast or passing improperly is likely not enough to demonstrate willful and wanton disregard. In fact, willful and wanton disregard speaks to the driver’s state of mind, not his or her actions, so it can be difficult to prove.
Careless driving, which is not a criminal charge like reckless driving, is more appropriate in many situations. However, the definitions of the two charges are similar.
Examples of careless driving include but are not limited to:
- Changing lanes without signaling
- Inattentive driving
- Driving in a manner that could result in the sliding or skidding of tires
- Driving in a manner that puts passengers in danger
- Tailgating or driving too close to bicyclists or pedestrians on the side of the road
- Driving without your headlights on
We fight for the best possible outcome which may include pursuing the reduction of charges from reckless driving to careless driving or, if appropriate, dismissal of charges.
We Can Help You Keep Points Off Your License
Whether you reside in the Sarasota area or out of state, The Murphy Law Group can help you understand your rights and options when dealing with a reckless driving charge. We will be with you every step of the way, helping you avoid losing your driving privileges because of too many points on your license.
Are you a commercial truck driver? We assist drivers with CDL violations, including reckless driving charges, too.
Retain Our Services Today
Don’t make the mistake of ignoring a reckless driving charge or thinking you can handle it on your own. We have a good rapport with law enforcement and know how to negotiate favorable outcomes.
If you would like to retain our services or simply discuss your case with our experienced attorney, contact our Sarasota office today to set up a free initial consultation. Contact us online or call 941-584-9570.