25 Oct Arizona’s Reckless Driving Laws
Arizona considers reckless driving a serious offense. While some traffic offenses can be written off as a simple ticket and a guilty plea, others may require hiring a criminal defense attorney who specializes in handling criminal traffic and driving violations.
A conviction relating to reckless driving in Arizona can result in heavy fines, a criminal record, and the suspension of your driver’s license–and we all know Arizona’s public transportation isn’t exactly top-notch.
Arizona Reckless Driving Laws
So how does the law define reckless driving in Arizona? Arizona Revised Statute 26-293 generally defines a reckless driver as: “A person who drives a vehicle in reckless disregard for the safety of persons or property is guilty of reckless driving.”
Albeit somewhat subjective, the following can get you pulled over, ticketed and even jailed for reckless driving:
- Driving at excessively high speeds
- Tailgating
- Swerving
- Texting while driving
- Disobeying road signs
- Damaging personal property with your car
- Overall poor driving
What is the Punishment for Reckless Driving in Arizona?
In most cases, reckless driving in Arizona is considered a Class 2 misdemeanor. The potential consequences of which can include:
- Up to $750 in fines
- As many as 4 months behind bars
- Suspension of your driver’s license
For repeat offenders, the charges are usually increased to a Class 1 misdemeanor and come with the following penalties:
- Fines reaching $2,500
- 6 months in jail
- Driver’s license revocation
What if You’re Pulled Over for Reckless Driving in Phoenix?
If you plead guilty to a reckless driving offense, you’ll have a criminal record, which can have an impact on your daily life. Due to the subjective nature of Arizona reckless driving laws, it is often possible to get your charges reduced to a non-criminal penalty with the aid of a Certified Criminal Law Specialist like Todd Coolidge.
Are you facing unreasonable reckless driving charges? Contact Coolidge Law Firm immediately if you want a fighting chance at defending your liberties.
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