One of the leading causes of auto collisions in our country is reckless driving. Consequently, it’s no surprise that New Jersey courts and law enforcement take measures to prevent drivers from committing this offense. Are you a New Jersey driver? Have you ever wondered if reckless driving is a crime in our state? No need to worry because our knowledgeable law firm has all the answers you’ll need! Read on to learn more, or contact a Bergen County, New Jersey Traffic Ticket Lawyer for individualized legal counseling.
IS RECKLESS DRIVING A CRIME IN NEW JERSEY?
No, reckless driving is not technically a crime in our state. In New Jersey, reckless driving is considered a major traffic violation. But don’t think that this still doesn’t come with significant penalties. New Jersey takes reckless driving offenses pretty seriously.
WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON EXAMPLES OF RECKLESS DRIVING?
- Texting or talking on the phone while driving
- Driving while under the influence of alcohol, legal drugs, or illegal drugs
- Running a red light
- Failing to completely stop at a stop sign
- Excessively speeding
- Driving too fast in hazardous road conditions
- Unlawfully attempting to pass other motorists
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Improperly using a highway shoulder
WHAT PENALTIES CAN I FACE?
The penalties you face depend on your driving history, criminal record, and the circumstances of the incident.
For a first offense, you are most likely to face:
- Possible incarceration, with a maximum jail time of 60 days
- Fines from $50 to $200
- A court fee of $33
- Five motor vehicle points on your driver’s license
- A possible suspension of your driver’s license
For a second offense, you are most likely to face:
- Possible incarceration, with a maximum jail time of 90 days
- Fines from $100 to $500
- A court fee of $33
- Five motor vehicle points on your driver’s license
- A possible suspension of your driver’s license
You could face other penalties depending on the exact offense you committed, such as if you were caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. In that case, you would likely be required to drive with an ignition interlock device (IID) in your car for a certain amount of time.
If you’ve recently been charged with reckless driving in New Jersey, you deserve a dedicated traffic violation attorney who can fight on behalf of your best interests. Thankfully, our highly experienced legal team is on your side to guide you through every step of the way! Contact the Law Office of E. Gregory Cannarozzi today for an initial consultation.