VTL 1212, Reckless Driving

At a traffic stop, one of the most serious charges you can get is Reckless Driving. It is a Misdemeanor criminal charge and if you plead guilty or are found guilty you are subject to thirty days jail and a permanent criminal record.

Reckless Driving is a unique charge because it is only a criminal offense that also gives you points on your license (DWI and driving with a suspended license do not carry points). If convicted, you will get five points on your driving record. The maximum fine for a first-time offender is $300 + $93 mandatory surcharge.

The exact wording of the statute (New York Vehicle & Traffic Law§ 1212) is as follows:

Reckless driving shall mean driving or using any motor vehicle, motorcycle or any other vehicle propelled by any power other than muscular power or any appliance or accessory thereof in a manner which unreasonably interferes with the free and proper use of the public highway, or unreasonably endangers users of the public highway. Reckless driving is prohibited. Every person violating this provision shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

If you were charged with Reckless Driving, it is imperative that you contact a traffic ticket lawyer. If handled properly, the charge can be reduced to a minor parking ticket or dismissed entirely.

The Benjamin Goldman Law Office has successfully handled Reckless Driving charges. Very often, the charging instruments are prima facie insufficient. This allows us to argue for the summons or ticket to be thrown out entirely. At minimum, it gives us the upper hand when negotiating for an advantageous plea offer. Attorneys are often allowed to appear in court in the place of their clients.

If you were cited with Reckless Driving, you can contact the Benjamin Goldman Law Office. We will review the ticket or summons and tell you what we think can be done. Consultations with our firm are free.