Dave Smith, Arizona DUI and Criminal Defense Attorney in Scottsdale, Arizona

Arizona Reckless Driving Defense Attorney - Dave Smith

Cited for Reckless Driving in Arizona?

Arizona Reckless Driving Defense

With congested, busy highways, it comes as no surprise that reckless driving is one of the most common criminal traffic offenses in Arizona. Reckless driving is a misdemeanor offense under the Arizona Criminal Code. All criminal offenses carry collateral implications upon conviction. Reckless driving consequences on conviction include a permanent criminal record which is visible to background checkers, fines, and possible loss of your driver's license privileges and jail.

If you or a loved one received a ticket for reckless driving, you should know that there are potential legal defenses and mitigation strategies available to you. Scottsdale reckless driving attorney, Dave Smith, has successfully handled thousands of criminal traffic cases in Arizona. Mr. Smith is highly experienced in the criminal traffic code and knows how to get the best possible results for his client.

Start your Defense Today. Free Consultation at (602) 813-3004

What Are The Consequences for Reckless Driving in Arizona?

What is Reckless Driving in Arizona?

Reckless driving is a misdemeanor offense, which is a criminal violation. A person can be found guilty of reckless driving if the state proves they were driving a vehicle in reckless disregard for the safety of persons or property.

A person is said to have acted recklessly when they are aware of and consciously disregards a substantial and unjustifiable risk that a result will occur or that the circumstance exists.

An example of reckless driving is where a person is speeding on the freeway while weaving in and out of several lanes of traffic. It is recommended when facing any criminal charges in Arizona to enlist the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney to review your case. Attorney Smith is based in Scottsdale, Arizona and is prepared to answer your questions and advise you of your options.

Reckless Driving First Offense Penalties in Arizona

A first time offense for reckless driving in Arizona is a class 2 misdemeanor offense. This is less severe than a class 1 misdemeanor, which is the highest level of misdemeanor under the criminal code. A conviction for reckless driving, however, does involve serious implications. A criminal conviction can be used in subsequent prosecution if that person is charged with another offense later.

Additionally, the court has the discretion to suspend your driver's license privileges for 90-days if found guilty of reckless driving. This is a negative consequence for those who rely on the privilege to drive for day to day living or for work.

Reckless Driving Second Offense Penalties in Arizona

The consequences for a reckless driving conviction are much worse if you are facing your second conviction in the last 24-months and your prior conviction was for:

Reckless driving;
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI);
Wrong way driving;
Racing on the highways;
Negligent homicide; or
Manslaughter.

The offense is now a class 1 misdemeanor and it is punishable by 20-days in jail. The person's driver's license privileges will also be suspended for one full year.

Suspended Driver's License for Reckless Driving Conviction

If you have a prior reckless driving conviction within the last 24-months or a prior DUI, racing, wrong way driving conviction or negligent homicide in the last two years, your driver's license will be revoked for a full year. After serving 45-days of the driver's license suspension, you can apply with the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (ADOT) for a restricted driver's permit.