Reckless Driving Defense Attorney Chris Caraway
Reckless Driving
Speed Exhibition and Reckless Driving are both misdemeanors in California under Vehicle Code (VC) sections
23103 and
23109. If you are charged with either crime call an experienced Reckless Driving Defense Lawyer today (530) 898-1111 for a Free Consultation.
Many prosecutors and police officers believe these crimes occur whenever your tires slip or if your car accelerates “too fast.” Additionally, many officers will add a “Speed Exhibition” or “Reckless Driving” charge to a simple speeding ticket, especially if the officer believes you are defiant or argumentative.
Exhibition of Speed & Speed Contest
To prove “Exhibition of Speed” the prosecutor must first prove that you drove a motor vehicle. Second, they must prove that you accelerated or drove at a rate of speed that was dangerous and unsafe in order to show off or impress someone else. A “Speed Contest” is defined as using a motor vehicle to race against another vehicle or a clock.
If you are charged with either crime call today to speak with a Reckless Driving Defense Lawyer. A conviction for either crime will put “Points” on your DMV record (see below), and could be punished by imprisonment in jail. In addition, you’ll pay fines and fees and may have to complete community service.
Reckless Driving
Reckless Driving is often confused with Exhibition of Speed. To prove a Reckless Driving, the prosecutor must first prove that you drove a motor vehicle. Second, they must prove that you intentionally drove with “wanton disregard” for the safety of persons or property. In other words that your driving was dangerous to someone else or their property. If you are convicted of VC 23103 you can be punished by imprisonment in a county jail for not more than 90 days and by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars.
DMV Consequences
Upon a convicted for violating VC 23103 or 23109, the Court sends proof of the conviction to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The DMV will then put two “Points” on your driving record. Your insurance costs can increase and you could lose your driver’s license. In California if you get four points in one year, six points in two years, or eight points in three years you will be labeled a “Negligent Operator” and lose your license. The Judge can also suspend your license to drive if he or she believes the facts in your case warrant it.
Fight Your Case
If you face charges for violating VC 23103 or 23109 call an experienced Reckless Driving defense Lawyer today at (530) 898-1111. We’ll schedule a Free Consultation to meet and discuss your options and whether you can fight your case or argue for a lesser charge. A conviction for Exhibition of Speed or Reckless Driving can have a severe impact on your liberty, as well as your criminal and driving record. Call us today.
Free Consultations
(530) 898-1111