Although reckless driving charges are most often brought against male motorists who are between 17 and 24 years of age, anyone can be charged with this offense. The difference between other criminal offenses and the offense of reckless driving is that the focus is not the actual behavior, but the intent or thought behind the driver's actions. Because of this, it is often difficult for the state to prove the defendant is guilty, although reckless driving is a fairly common offense. At Adams & Luka, we know the implications of a conviction for any offense go further than fines or potential jail time. No one wants his or her reputation and career ruined, or a permanent criminal record. We urge you to contact us now for skilled legal guidance.
One thing you must be aware of - reckless driving is not an ordinary traffic citation, but a crime. Many people are not aware that because they are not placed under arrest by police, they are still being cited for committing a criminal offense! Ultimately, improper handling of the situation could result in a criminal conviction, or possibly even jail time. Reckless driving occurs when the accused individual drives in a manner that indicates his or her willful or intentional disregard for the safety of other people or others' property. While driving at high speeds, running red lights or stop signs, and driving in an erratic manner are certainly aspects of reckless driving, the offense of speeding on its own does not constitute this offense.
Defenses to Charges of Reckless Driving in FloridaIn an attempt to prove reckless driving, prosecutors often rely on the testimony given by police; essentially, the testimony of the police officer may be what is used to determine your fate. Unfortunately, one police officer's perception of what constitutes reckless driving may be different from another's. It could be that you should have been ticketed simply for speeding or careless driving, rather than the criminal offense of reckless driving.
The defense our Orlando reckless driving defense lawyers develop in any particular case depend on several factors, including whether an accident occurred, whether anyone was injured, whether drugs or alcohol were involved, whether there was property damage, or whether it was simply a case of speeding or careless driving rather than reckless driving.
Penalties for Reckless Driving in Orlando & Central FloridaIn Florida, you may be charged with one of four types of reckless driving. These include:
The penalties you face if found guilty depend on the offense you were charged with.
A first offense reckless driving conviction may result in:
If convicted of reckless driving with a prior conviction, the penalties may include:
Reckless driving causing property damage will result in:
Reckless driving causing serious bodily injury may result in the following penalties if convicted:
As you can see, the criminal penalties for a conviction of reckless driving are serious, and should not be taken lightly.
Contact Adams & Luka ImmediatelyAs experienced Orlando reckless driving lawyers, we know that many people are charged with this offense when they should have actually been cited for a civil infraction such as speeding or careless driving. Regardless of your circumstances, it is vital that you consult with a capable and qualified attorney at once, so that work can begin to protect your legal rights, freedom, and reputation. We are ready to fight on your behalf, so contact us now for a free consultation at (407) 872-0307 or (352) 787-2101.
I would like thank my attorney Thomas Luka. I knew from the beginning I had the right guy in my corner. While celebrating with family and friends at a Public Park in Seminole County, a fight broke out among various people. Myself, and a good friend, broke up the fight and the instigators left. Six months later, I was wrongly accused as the person who started the fight. The first attorney I hired could not even get a response from the State Attorney handling the case. Someone referred me to Tom and I felt comfortable at his demeanor and reactions.
After conversations with Tom, who knew I would settle for nothing less than a FULL DISMISSAL due to my innocence, I hired him. His firm of Adams and Luka did the due diligence by interviewing witnesses and the police who were on the scene, as well as starting a dialogue with the State Attorney. After gathering statements from witnesses, Tom was able to present a strong argument on my behalf to the State Attorney on why the case should be dismissed. If the State Attorney was not willing to dismiss the case, Tom was ready to take the case to trial.
The result by Thomas Luka: Case Dismissed.
I am 53 years old with a spotless record and glad to keep it that way thanks to the time, effort, hard work, and professionalism of the Adams and Luka and Tom Luka.