Irving Reckless Driving Attorney

Reckless Driving Lawyer Near You

Reckless driving is a criminal offense that involves operating a vehicle in a manner that endangers the safety of others on the road. This is a serious offense that can have significant legal and personal consequences. As a result, it is essential to know precisely what reckless driving is, the penalties a person can face if they are convicted, and how a criminal defense attorney can help defend against these charges.

At the Law Office of Michelle Poblenz, our experienced criminal defense lawyer has the knowledge and skill needed to defend clients who have been charged with reckless driving. We will work with you every step of the way and help you navigate the legal landscape as you fight to overcome the charges of reckless driving and move on with your life.

What Is Reckless Driving?

Reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle in a way that shows disregard for the safety of others on the road. Multiple types of actions may be considered reckless, including driving at excessive speeds, weaving in and out of traffic, ignoring traffic signals or signs, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Reckless driving can result in significant penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time.

Understanding the Penalties for Reckless Driving in Texas

In Texas, reckless driving can have serious consequences. Reckless driving is charged as a misdemeanor offense, and a person who is convicted may be sentenced to up to 30 days in prison and fined as much as $200. Please be advised that this penalty assumes there are not any aggravating factors, such as the injury or death of another person. In cases where aggravating factors are present, the penalties can be far graver than a simple misdemeanor charge of reckless driving.

Moreover, Texas' specific definition of reckless driving states that a person may be charged with this offense if they exhibit "willful or wanton disregard for safety," which may sound confusing to those who are unfamiliar with the law. This means that a person acted in a way that they understood was likely to cause substantial harm to themselves or others or result in damage to property. In other words, reckless driving charges may apply if a person knew that they were putting people at risk of injury due to driving at excessive speeds or engaging in actions that were likely to lead to an accident.

Examples of Defense Strategies That May Be Used in Reckless Driving Cases

1. Question the presented evidence - Your criminal defense attorney may be able to challenge the evidence against you. This may involve witness statements or physical evidence that may weaken the prosecution's case.
2. Question the officer's observations - Reckless driving charges often rely heavily on the observations of the police officer who performed a traffic stop. Your attorney may be able to challenge the officer's observations or show that they were based on faulty perception or a lack of training.
3. Argue that your actions were not reckless - Your attorney may use this strategy if the prosecution has a weak case or if the evidence is unclear.
4. Negotiate a plea bargain - Sometimes, it may be in your best interest to negotiate with the prosecution and determine whether a case can be resolved without the need for a trial. This can result in reduced charges or a lighter sentence in exchange for a guilty plea.

Contact a Tarrant County Reckless Driving Attorney

There is a common misconception that offenses such as reckless driving are minor offenses that will only result in a "slap on the wrist." However, this is not true. Texas considers reckless driving to be a serious offense. Depending on the circumstances of the incident, those convicted of such charges may be subject to steep fines and jail time, as well as other consequences. Because of this, getting legal help from a criminal defense attorney can be crucial, and it can give you a fair shot at avoiding these adverse outcomes.

At the Law Office of Michelle Poblenz, our dedicated criminal defense lawyer has the knowledge and skill to provide high-quality legal representation for clients in cases involving reckless driving and other traffic violations. Contact us at 469-845-3031 for a private consultation.