If you’re facing a reckless driving misdemeanor charge in Kern County, CA, you’re not alone.
At Bigger & Harman, APC, we’ve helped hundreds of drivers just like you. A reckless driving charge is more than a simple traffic ticket—it’s a criminal offense that could follow you for years.
Let's examine what you're really up against and how we can help.
What Counts as Reckless Driving?
Reckless driving covers a range of risky behaviors—speeding, racing, road rage, and more.
California Vehicle Code (VC) Section 23103, Driving Offenses, defines it as:
"The intentional disregard for the safety of others, or their property, while displaying an overall disregard for the rules of the road."
A knowledgeable and experienced attorney will work the “intentional disregard” aspect to create reasonable doubt.
Even showing off by driving fast to impress someone—called an “exhibition of speed”—can count. That’s often confused with street racing, but it’s a separate charge under the same law.
Types of Reckless Driving in California
There are different reckless driving charges, and each comes with its own risks:
Standard Reckless Driving – The most common. It’s charged as a misdemeanor.
Commercial Reckless Driving – Happens while filming or capturing footage for ads or promos.
Reckless Driving with Injuries – If someone else gets hurt, your charge could escalate.
Penalties for a Reckless Driving Misdemeanor Charge
A reckless driving misdemeanor charge brings serious consequences:
Fines up to $2,500
Up to six months in jail
Two points on your license
Up to two years of probation
The court can also impound your vehicle for up to 30 days, adding another $1,500 to $2,000 to your expense and/or suspending your license for six months.
And yes, your insurance rates will likely skyrocket if convicted.
How Serious Is a Reckless Driving Misdemeanor Charge?
A misdemeanor is a very serious driving offense. There is only one level above a misdemeanor, that is a felony, which usually involves injury or death.
“A misdemeanor is a type of offense punishable under criminal law. A misdemeanor is typically a crime punishable by less than 12 months in jail.”—Cornell Law School Legal Information Institute (LII) WEX Definitions: Misdemeanor.
When Does Reckless Driving Become a Felony?
If someone is injured and the injury is severe, your charge may turn into a felony. Injuries that can push your case into felony territory include:
Bone fractures
Concussions
Loss of consciousness
Brain damage
Paralysis
These cases are called “wobblers,” meaning the court can charge you with either a misdemeanor or felony. A felony could mean 16 months to 3 years in jail.
Long-Term Impact of Reckless Driving Charges
This charge doesn’t just end with court. Here’s what else it can affect:
Your job: Many employers won’t hire drivers with criminal records.
Insurance: You may face premium hikes or lose coverage.
Reputation: A conviction can damage how others see you.
Future penalties: One conviction could lead to harsher treatment later.
Civil Liability: You could be sued for financial responsibility in a civil suit.
That’s why it’s critical to understand every part of your case—and why having the right legal team matters.
How to Fight a Reckless Driving Misdemeanor Charge
We’ve seen a variety of strong defenses work in Kern County courts. Some of the most effective include:
Emergency situation: We’ll show you had no choice but to act fast.
Mistaken identity: You may not have been the one driving recklessly.
Faulty evidence: We’ll examine radar readings, witness statements, and stop procedures.
Procedural errors: If the officer didn’t follow the rules, we’ll use that to your advantage.
Every case is different. We’ll build the strategy that fits yours.
Why You Need a Kern County Attorney with Trial Experience
Not every reckless driving case gets dismissed or downgraded. Some end up in front of a judge. That’s when trial experience matters most.
At Bigger & Harman, APC, we’re trial-tested and know how Kern County courts work. We don’t just settle—we fight for the best possible result.
Here’s why clients trust us:
We’ve handled hundreds of misdemeanor cases like reckless driving
We know California traffic law inside and out
We build defenses that hold up in court
We keep you informed at every step
We offer flexible payment plans to reduce your stress
If you need a Kern County attorney with trial experience, we’re ready to step in. Call us or visit our website today. Let’s start building your defense now.
Call Bigger & Harman About a Reckless Driving Misdemeanor Charge in Kern County Immediately
If you have been accused of a reckless driving misdemeanor charge in Kern County, invoke your “right to remain silent,”then call Bigger & Harman, APC, at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español 349-9755.
Remember to avoid making any statement to law enforcement or court officials without an attorney present to protect your rights. Regardless of what they might tell you, opting to remain silent cannot be used against you at trial, but “anything you say can and will…”
If time permits, use our handy contact form or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com. We’ll get back to you as soon as the office opens.
References:
Cornell Law School LII WEX Definitions: Misdemeanor.
The CA Driver Handbook English y Español.
The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2025.
CA VC Section 23103, Driving Offense (Reckless Driving).