Marietta Reckless Driving Lawyer
Reckless driving is very dangerous behavior, as it places the safety of everyone in the vicinity in jeopardy. Police officers will generally charge a motorist with reckless driving when they feel the rules of the road or the safety of others are being ignored. Reckless driving charges are often laid at the scene of many accidents, but that does not mean a crash has to occur in order for drivers to be charged. The offense of reckless driving is often more serious than people realize. You need our Marietta reckless driving lawyer to fight for your rights.
What is Reckless Driving in Marietta?
State law is very vague when defining what constitutes reckless driving. The Georgia Code simply defines reckless driving as operating a vehicle with reckless disregard for the safety of other people or of property. Although there is no strict definition of what constitutes a “reckless disregard,” there are some general behaviors law enforcement looks for. These include excessive speeding, weaving in and out of lanes, running stop signs or red lights, and passing other drivers when a double yellow line is present.
What are the Penalties for Reckless Driving in Marietta?
Reckless driving is charged as a misdemeanor in Marietta. The penalties associated with a conviction include a maximum fine of $1,000, up to one year in jail, community service, and a drug or alcohol evaluation and treatment. People who are over the age of 21 years old will have four points added to their driver’s license, which could bring them much closer to a suspension. Drivers who are under the age of 21 years old and who are convicted of reckless driving will automatically have their driver’s license suspended.
DUI Charges Reduced to Reckless Driving
It is not uncommon for charges of driving under the influence (DUI) to be reduced to reckless driving. The prosecution can often prove that a driving violation occurred, but they cannot establish that it occurred due to the driver being under the influence.
Getting a DUI charge reduced to reckless driving is considered a favorable outcome. You may be able to avoid a driver’s license suspension, depending on your age and how many points you currently have on your license. You can also avoid having a DUI on your permanent criminal record, which is extremely important to some people, including those who need their license to work.
Call Our Reckless Driving Lawyer in Marietta Before Paying Your Ticket
You may be tempted to pay your reckless driving ticket and put the whole matter behind you, but that is often a mistake. Paying a ticket could be seen as an admission of guilt so before you pay, call our Marietta reckless driving lawyer. At the law firm of Andrew L. Schwartz, our experienced attorney can advise you of the defenses available in your case and use them to give you the best chance of a positive outcome. Call us now at (678) 853-2500 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our attorney and to obtain a free review of your case.
