What Are the Penalties for Reckless Driving in NJ?

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Reckless driving charges are among the most serious traffic violations an individual can commit, and though New Jersey law does not consider reckless driving a crime, it is frequently referred to as a “quasi-crime,” in that it is still treated as a crime, despite it not entailing misdemeanor or felony charges. Though a reckless driving charge may not appear on a criminal record, the consequences of a reckless driving charge are particularly severe, and in some cases, may even land you in jail. Please continue reading and reach out to a dedicated Bergen County criminal defense lawyer from the Law Office of Boyd & Squitieri to learn more about reckless driving charges in NJ and how our firm can help you fight them. Here are some of the questions you may have:

What happens if I am facing reckless driving charges in NJ?

Reckless driving is loosely defined as when someone operates a motor vehicle in such a way that willfully and recklessly puts other drivers in serious danger. Just as speeding tickets often result in points accumulating on your driver’s license, so does reckless driving. However, for a single reckless driving charge, you will most likely face five points on your license. The additional consequences of a first-offense reckless driving charge in New Jersey are as follows:

  • Up to 60 days in jail
  • A potential $200 fine
  • A potential 90-day license suspension

What are the penalties for a second-offense reckless driving charge in New Jersey?

If this is your second time facing reckless driving charges in New Jersey, on top of an additional 5 points on your license (which will most likely cause your insurance premiums to skyrocket), you will face the following penalties:

  • A $500 fine
  • A potential 90-day jail sentence
  • A 6-month license suspension

Rather obviously, the penalties for reckless driving charges in New Jersey are severe, and you shouldn’t face them on your own. The Law Office of Boyd & Squitieri has decades of experience representing individuals facing criminal charges, including reckless driving, in New Jersey, and our firm is prepared to put that experience to work for you in your case as well. Contact us today so we can get started working on your case and fighting for your rights and future.