In the state of Idaho, reckless driving is a serious traffic offense. You can be charged with reckless driving If you drive in a careless manner likely to endanger others or property. Convictions come with steep penalties, but is reckless driving a felony?
If you’re facing charges of reckless driving, it’s important to understand the consequences of a conviction and how an attorney can help.
Is Reckless Driving A Felony in Idaho?
No, reckless driving is not a felony in Idaho. Reckless driving is a misdemeanor, and a first offense carries the following penalties:
- Up to six months in jail
- A fine of up to $1,000
- 30-day license suspension
A second conviction within five years has penalties of up to one year in jail a $2,000 fine and a 90-day license suspension. Three convictions in three years come with a mandatory license suspension of one year. Further, any reckless driving conviction requires that you carry SR-22 insurance for three years.
Reckless driving may not be a felony, but a conviction will certainly have negative consequences on your life. Misdemeanors will stay on your record for life. Having this conviction on your record can also make it more difficult to get a job, especially if that job involves the operation of a motor vehicle.
It is in your best interest to fight the charges. If your case does not look good, trying to negotiate to reduce the charges and penalties may be a possibility. This is not a process that you want to navigate alone. An experienced attorney will advocate for you and help you achieve the best possible outcome.
Attorney John Cutler has more than 30 years of experience and has achieved a “Superb” 10.0 rating by AVVO.com. Before opening his firm, John worked as a prosecutor, so he understands how the system works on both sides. He is committed to helping clients solve their legal problems and protect their rights.
If you’re facing reckless driving charges, don’t wait to contact an attorney. Contact Cutler Law Office, P.A. today.
What is Considered “Reckless Driving?”
Several driving behaviors can be considered “reckless,” including:
- Excessive speeding in areas with poor visibility or passing in a no-passing zone.
- Tailgating (following a vehicle too closely)
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Failing to obey traffic signs or signals, such as red lights, yield signs, or stop signs
Driving behaviors that pose significant risk to the safety of others and increase the risk of an accident can be considered reckless driving.
What Should I Do If I’m Charged with Reckless Driving?
Reckless driving is serious. You don’t want to make a mistake that can work against you and make it even more challenging to defend yourself. We recommend that you avoid:
- Arguing: The police officer is doing their job. You want to remain cooperative, even if you know that the charge is inaccurate.
- Admit: If you admit fault to the officer, it may be used against you. You want to avoid making any statements that may be misconstrued as an admission of guilt. Remember you have a Fifth Amendment right not to incriminate yourself. It is best not to make admissions.
- Accepting the charges: Fighting reckless driving charges is in your best interest. You do face the possibility of jail and significant fines. You will even lose your license, which can have a significant impact on your ability to get to work.
- Pleading guilty: If you’re ready to plead guilty, it’s a mistake that can cost you greatly. Even if you believe that your actions were reckless, it’s best to have a defense. Working with an attorney to help build a defense is one of the best choices you can make.
- Underestimating the consequences: Reckless driving will have long-term consequences that are easy to overlook. You will lose your license, your insurance premiums are sure to rise, and your driving record will have four points added to it. If you work in the transportation industry, your ability to secure employment may be impacted.
Is reckless driving a felony? No. You will not face felony charges, but you still risk going to jail. Building a defense for your charge as soon as possible will allow an attorney to gather evidence and facts to protect your rights.
We’re ready to help you defend yourself from a reckless driving charge. We represent residents in Idaho Falls, Blackfoot, Rigby, St. Anthony, Rexburg, Arco, Island Park, and the surrounding areas.
Call us to speak to an attorney about your reckless driving charge.
