If you’ve been accused of reckless driving, you already know it’s more than a ticket.
It’s a misdemeanor crime in California with long-term consequences.
At Bigger & Harman, we’ve defended hundreds of drivers in Fresno County and Central Valley who faced this charge. Let’s break down what it really means, what you’re risking, and how we can help protect your record.
What Counts as Reckless Driving in California?
California Vehicle Code (VC) §23103 defines reckless driving as “a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.”
That sounds broad because it is. Prosecutors and officers often apply this charge to a wide range of behaviors:
- Speeding far above the limit
- Tailgating or brake-checking another driver
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Swerving in and out of lanes
- Racing or exhibitions of speed
- Aggressive road rage incidents
Even “showing off” by screeching tires or “pealing rubber” on a street in Fresno could be considered an exhibition of speed or reckless driving.
Intent matters here, which is why an experienced traffic attorney can often challenge whether you truly acted with “intentional disregard for safety.”
Why Do Drivers Brake-Check?
Recently, brake-checking has become one of the most common behaviors that lead to reckless driving charges.
A driver slams the brakes on purpose, forcing the car behind to react suddenly. Some do it out of anger, others for insurance fraud. Whatever the reason, it’s dangerous and often classified as reckless driving.
Dashcam footage has made it easier to prove who’s really at fault, but if you’re accused of brake-checking, you’ll want legal help right away.
The Consequences of Reckless Driving
Reckless driving carries far more penalties than a simple traffic infraction:
- Fines & Costs: Court fines and fees can easily reach $3,000 or more.
- Vehicle Impound: Officers may order your car towed and held, with storage fees up to $2,500.
- Jail Time or Probation: Convictions can result in from 5 days to 6 months in county jail, or probation, typically two years.
- License Problems: Suspension or revocation is possible.
- Insurance Hikes: Expect premiums to double or even triple.
- Two NOTS Points: A conviction places two points on your DMV motor vehicle driving record (MVR) record.
- Criminal Record: This is a misdemeanor offense, not just a traffic violation.
On Interstate 5 in Fresno County, even a single reckless driving charge could damage your reputation, cost you your job, and create serious financial stress.
Defending Against a Reckless Driving Charge
Not every reckless driving case ends in conviction.
We’ve fought charges across Fresno County using defenses like:
- Emergency situations that required fast action
- Mistaken identity or unclear driver evidence
- Faulty radar or speed measurement tools
- Procedural errors by officers
However, your defense depends on your situation. Each case is different.
We carefully analyze the evidence, from police reports to witness statements, to build your best defense.
Long-Term Impact of Reckless Driving
This misdemeanor charge can reach into nearly every part of your life:
- Jobs: Employers often avoid applicants with criminal records.
- Insurance: Premiums could skyrocket for years if your insurance provider decides to keep you.
- Civil Liability: Victims of reckless driving can sue for damages.
- Future Penalties: One conviction makes the next offense worse.
That’s why drivers in Bakersfield, Fresno, and across Central California should never ignore this charge.
Why Choose Bigger & Harman
We’ve handled thousands of traffic cases in the Central Valley and across California.
Our team is familiar with the procedures followed in CA Superior Courts for reckless driving cases. We have experience in traffic court and trials to help you defend your criminal record and driving privileges.
Clients trust us because:
- We know California traffic law inside and out.
- We’ve defended hundreds of reckless driving misdemeanor cases during the past decade.
- We keep clients informed every step of the way.
- We offer flat fees and flexible payment options.
Consult Bigger & Harman, the Traffic Ticket Defense Attorneys
Facing reckless driving is serious offense.
A conviction could mean jail time, thousands in fines, a vehicle impound, and two NOTS points that could skyrocket your insurance premiums for years.
On Interstate 5 in Fresno County and throughout the Central Valley, we’ve seen too many drivers suffer the harsh consequences of a reckless driving conviction.
Don’t face this alone. Call Bigger & Harman today for a consultation with an experienced traffic attorney who can fight for your rights and help protect your future.
Contact Bigger & Harman About a Reckless Driving Charge
If you’re facing a reckless driving charge, call Bigger & Harman at (661) 349-9300 to discuss defense strategies that could protect your record and avoid jail time or probation—se habla Español 349-9755.
We can represent you in Fresno County Courthouse.
Use the contact form to arrange a complimentary consultation, or email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section
Q: Is reckless driving a felony in California?
A: No, reckless driving is generally a misdemeanor, but it still carries severe penalties and is a criminal charge. However, if someone is seriously or fatally injured, it could become a felony. You should always invoke your “right to remain silent” and consult an attorney about either charge.
Q: How can an attorney help with a reckless driving case?
A: An attorney can challenge the evidence, negotiate reduced charges, or take the case to trial. When there is no evidence of intent to cause harm, an experienced attorney may request that the judge exercise discretion in reducing the charges to an infraction.
Q: How will a conviction for reckless driving in Fresno County affect my insurance premiums?
A: Yes, at renewal, if the insurer decides to keep the driver, their premiums could double or triple.
References:
CA VC Section 23103, Driving Offenses.
The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2025.
The CA DMV Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) Webpage.