If you’ve been licensed in Arizona for some time, you’ve probably seen all kinds of driving behaviors, such as people who drive “too slow” for conditions, people who speed, people who text while driving, aggressive driving, and perhaps you’ve even suspected someone was drunk behind the wheel. One type of driving behavior that can be dangerous if not deadly is “reckless driving.” What is reckless driving? “Reckless driving means your driving showed irreverence or indifference to the safety or property of others. In some states, mental state is a determining factor. “For other states, certain violations are considered inherently reckless. This can include: racing; passing on blind curves; swerving; passing school buses with their stop signs down; and going around railroad barriers. In many states, reckless driving includes high-mph speeding,” according to I Drive Safely®. More examples of reckless driving:
- Tailgating
- Illegal passing
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Racing with another car
- Evading a police officer
- Speeding more than 25 mph over the speed limit
If you’re caught reckless driving, you will face criminal charges in Arizona. Not only will it go on your driving record, but you will have a criminal record if you’re found guilty. You could go on probation, spend time in jail, pay fines, and your driver’s license may be suspended. The severity of the penalties will depend on the facts of your case and whether you have a history of reckless driving.
Reckless Driving Under Arizona Law
In Arizona, reckless driving is against the law under Section 28-693 of the Arizona Revised Statutes. According to Sec. 28-693, you can be charged with reckless driving when you drive a motor vehicle “in reckless disregard for the safety of the persons or property.” Reckless driving in Arizona is a Class 2 misdemeanor for a first offense, punishable by:
- Up to 2 years unsupervised probation
- Up to a $750 fine in addition to a surcharge
- Up to 120 days in jail
Facing reckless driving charges in Arizona? Contact the Davidson Criminal Defense & DUI Law Firm, PLC for a free case evaluation.
