If you’ve been pulled over and cited for reckless driving in Ohio, you might wonder whether this mistake can come back to haunt you. Reckless driving is one of those charges that can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure what the law actually says or what your options are.
When you know how to navigate Ohio’s reckless driving laws and penalties, you can understand what to expect and make smart choices about how to move forward. Here is what you need to know about reckless driving in Ohio.
What Is Considered Reckless Driving in Ohio?
Under Ohio Revised Code § 4511.20, reckless driving boils down to one fact: driving dangerously in a way that puts others at risk. The law does not list every possible action that could qualify, but some of the most common examples include:
- Driving at excessive speeds, especially in neighborhoods or school zones
- Swerving or weaving through traffic
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Road rage or aggressive maneuvers
- Street racing
- Driving while distracted or under the influence
Keep in mind that you do not have to cause an accident to get cited. If a police officer believes your driving puts people or property in danger, that is enough to lead to a reckless driving charge.
What Happens If You’re Charged with Reckless Driving?
The penalties for reckless driving in Ohio depend on your driving history and whether anyone was hurt due to your actions. This is more than a routine traffic ticket, even for a first offense. This is a criminal misdemeanor that can carry serious consequences.
First-Time Offense
If it is your first reckless driving charge, it will be treated as a minor misdemeanor. That could mean:
- A fine of up to $150
- Four points on your driver’s license
- Possible spikes in your auto insurance rates
That might not sound too bad. However, those license points can add up quickly. In some cases, your insurance company may view you as a high-risk driver.
Repeat Offenses or Aggravating Factors
If you have had another traffic conviction within the past year, the penalties get steeper:
- With one prior offense, reckless driving is a fourth-degree misdemeanor: up to 30 days in jail and a $250 fine
- With two or more prior offenses, it becomes a third-degree misdemeanor: up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine
And if someone is seriously injured as a result of your driving, prosecutors may pursue felony charges like vehicular assault or even vehicular homicide.
Will This Affect Your Driver’s License?
Reckless driving adds four points to your license. You could face an automatic six-month license suspension if you accumulate 12 points within two years. In some cases, the court may suspend your license right away, especially if your actions involved alcohol or resulted in injury.
If you want to reinstate a suspended license, you will need to complete a driver improvement course and pay fees through the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
Can You Fight a Reckless Driving Charge?
The answer is always yes. Since reckless driving is based on an officer’s judgment of your behavior, there is room for interpretation. And that can give your legal team some room for defense.
In some cases, your lawyer may be able to negotiate the charge down to a lesser offense, such as a non-moving violation or basic traffic infraction. This could mean fewer license points, lower fines, and less impact on your insurance and criminal record.
Get the Right Help for Your Ohio Reckless Driving Charge
If you’re facing a reckless driving charge, you will want to get legal assistance. They can help you with navigating Ohio’s reckless driving laws and penalties. The sooner you talk to a criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of reducing the consequences or protecting your record.
If you need help navigating your reckless driving charge, Hunt Law LLC can help. We will determine the right defense for your case. If you want to arrange a free consultation, please contact us at 330-469-9836.