Yes, getting a reckless driving charge reduced is possible, and you stand a much better chance of making that happen when you discuss your situation with us, Bigger & Harman, before you make a statement to the Bakersfield Police or Kern County Superior Court officials.
The first thing that you need to put out of your mind when facing a serious misdemeanor crime like reckless driving is that you cannot afford a knowledgeable and experienced traffic defense attorney.
When you consider the consequences of a guilty verdict, such as jail time in the Kern County Jail, probation, and/or a base fine of up to $1,000, which when you add the surcharges, court costs, penalties, and assessments could reach three to five times that amount, our fee is negligible.
What Is Reckless Driving?
Reckless driving is typically a misdemeanor crime, and a conviction will stay on your CA motor vehicle driving record (MVR) for up to ten years.
“A person who drives a vehicle upon a highway in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property is guilty of reckless driving.”—CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 23103, Driving Offenses.
Reckless driving could also occur in an “off-street parking facility.”
In many cases, it can be difficult for the State to prove “willful or wanton disregard for safety,” and given the gravity of jail time or probation and a criminal record for a driving offense, many prosecutors and judges are amenable to strike a deal with the defense when approached by a knowledgeable and experienced attorney with a solid reputation for trial success about getting a reckless driving charge reduced to an infraction.
When asked what driving behavior alerted them to what might be reckless driving, CA law enforcement officers (LEO) gave the following list:
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Distracted driving
- Not using turn signals
- Not yielding the right-of-way
- Not looking at blind spots
- Running stop signs
- Running red lights
Although this behavior doesn’t always lead to a reckless driving charge, many LEOs considers this actions as indicators of risky behavior.
When charged with reckless driving you should consult a traffic attorney with trial experience
Consult with Bigger & Harman About Possibly Getting a Reckless Driving Charge Reduced
The accusation of reckless driving is a serious allegation. In many cases, the best you can hope for is getting a reckless driving charge reduced or dismissed. Without the assistance of a traffic attorney with trial experience, you might dampen you chances. Give us a call to discuss your options.
Call Bigger & Harman, APC, at (661) 349-9300. Or, use our convenient contact form or email us atattorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.
References:
CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 23103, Driving Offenses.