Driver Caused Multi-vehicle Accident and Charged with Careless Driving

The Charges

The driver of an older model Toyota caused a multi-car vehicular accident. The passengers of two other vehicles were seriously injured. The Police cited the Defendant with Reckless Driving.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle that demonstrates a wanton or willful disregard of safety.  This is a criminal offense that can be classified as a misdemeanor or a felony. Examples of reckless driving include weaving in and out of traffic, going over 25 miles over the speed limit, tailgating, failure to use turn signals, illegal passing, drag racing, texting while driving, or driving while intoxicated. Reckless driving cannot be based only on excessive speed in Florida.  There must be other elements of reckless driving seen. However, leading law enforcement on a chase will automatically be charged as reckless driving. 

Reckless driving that is a first offense with no bodily injury will be charged as a second-degree misdemeanor.  The penalties for this include up to 90 days in jail, 6 months of probation, and a fine of $500.

A second offense will result in a maximum of 6 months in jail, probation, and a fine of up to $1,000.  It will also be charged as a second-degree misdemeanor. 

If there is property damage or bodily injury, a first-degree misdemeanor will be charged.  This has a penalty of up to one year in jail, with 12 months probation and a fine of $1,000.

If there was serious bodily injury, a third-degree felony is charged.  The penalties for this will include up to 5 years in prison, 5 years of probation, and a fine of $5,000.

Other Penalties That Will Be Enforced

While the above penalties are harsh, there are many other penalties that you will face if you have a charge of reckless driving on your record.  You will receive 4 points on your Florida license. Your auto insurance can also go up significantly in rates, or your insurance company has the right to drop you altogether.  Employers may decide not to hire you, especially if the job depends upon driving, such as plumbers or road crews.  

Obtaining Attorney Services

If you have been charged with reckless driving, you will want to speak with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible.  We at Musca Law Firm will go head to head with the prosecution, using our skillful defenses. We will fight for your right to have your charges either lowered or completely dropped. 

RESULT: The Defendant pleaded not guilty to the Reckless Driving citation. The Defendant hired Musca Law Firm to defend the charge against him. The Defense Attorney requested that the case go to hearing. The Officer who issued the citation appeared to testify on behalf of the State. The Defense skillfully cross-examined the testifying Officer and the Court ruled NO FORMAL FINDING OF GUILT on the charge of Reckless Driving.