New York Statute § 1212 defines reckless driving as any means of operating any kind of motor vehicle in a manner that interferes with the use of the highway by others and endangers others unreasonably. Reckless driving is a prohibited offense in New York. A reckless driving violation is considered a misdemeanor.
The NYPD has been cracking down on reckless drivers and other related violations regarding drivers speeding, running red lights and using texting and cell phones during driving. If you are convicted of reckless driving in New York, it is a misdemeanor with a fine up to $300.00 and jail time up to 180 days as well as penalties of 5 points against your driving. For speeding you can receive 11 points and 3 points for running a red light. Speeding fines can run as high as $600.00 and as low as $90.00. Speed limits on most city streets are 30 miles per hour and in school zones 25 miles per hour. With 11 points within an 18 month time period, you could lose your driver’s license.
Reckless driving can lead to serious accidents and injury and properly damage and loss of life. NYPD law enforcement take reckless driving case seriously and prosecutors will prosecute them to the limit if someone is seriously injured or killed as a result of another person’s reckless driving. There are enhanced penalties if you are driving under the influence of a controlled substance or alcohol and you could face additional charges and fees and loss or suspension of your driver’s license.
Proving Reckless Driving
While reckless driving is a serious offense, a good New York criminal defense attorney can help you with getting a pleas for a minor infraction or less serious violation since these cases are often hard to prove. The case may even get dismissed for lack of evidence. You will also need to fight lousing your driver’s license which is base upon the point levels against you. If outtake a Point Insurance Reduction Program offered in New York, you can reduce your point level by 4 points.
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http://statutes.laws.com/new-york/vat/title-7/article-33/1212
