Careless or Reckless Driving

At Wilson, Reives and Doran, we understand how daunting a careless or reckless driving charge can be. In North Carolina, these offenses carry serious penalties that can have a lasting impact on your driving record, insurance rates, and, ultimately, your life. Our experienced legal team is here to help you navigate the legal system, protect your rights, and work toward the best possible outcome for your case.

What is Careless or Reckless Driving?

Under North Carolina law, reckless driving is defined as driving a vehicle “carelessly and heedlessly in willful or wanton disregard of the rights or safety of others” or driving “without due caution and circumspection and at a speed or in a manner so as to endanger or be likely to endanger any person or property.”

Common examples of reckless driving include:

Excessive Speeding: Driving significantly above the posted speed limit, especially in residential or school zones.
Aggressive Maneuvers: Tailgating, cutting off other drivers, or weaving rapidly through traffic.
Ignoring Traffic Signals: Failing to stop at red lights or stop signs, or disregarding other roadway signage.
Illegal Passing: Passing on blind curves, on the shoulder, or in no-passing zones.
Driving Under the Influence: Operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol can lead to additional charges beyond reckless driving.
Distracted Driving: Texting or using a phone behind the wheel, eating, or other distractions that cause you to drive in an unsafe manner.
Racing or Exhibition Driving: Engaging in spontaneous “street racing,” drag racing, or other racing activities on public roads.

While “careless driving” is not always designated as a separate criminal offense under North Carolina law, many of the behaviors people refer to as “careless” (such as distracted driving) may be cited under statutes involving reckless, aggressive, or inattentive driving. Any of these can lead to severe consequences.

What to Do if Charged with Careless or Reckless Driving

If you find yourself facing a reckless driving charge in North Carolina, it is essential to act quickly and responsibly. Here are some recommended steps:

Stay Calm and Comply: Cooperate with law enforcement during the traffic stop to avoid additional charges or complications.
Document the Incident: Write down or record key details about the stop as soon as possible—time of day, weather conditions, road conditions, and any communication you had with the officer.
Review Your Paperwork: Carefully read any citation or documentation you received. Note your court date and make sure you understand the charge against you.
Contact an Attorney: Reckless driving is a serious offense that can lead to long-term consequences. Reach out to an experienced North Carolina traffic attorney—like the team at Wilson, Reives and Doran—as soon as possible to discuss your options and develop a defense strategy.
Follow Legal Guidance: Your attorney can advise you on the best way to handle communication with insurance companies, the court, and others involved in the case. Always follow the instructions of your legal counsel.
Attend All Court Dates: Missing a court date can lead to additional penalties or even a warrant for your arrest. Make sure to appear for all scheduled hearings.

Prompt action and sound legal counsel can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Potential Penalties and Consequences

A conviction for reckless driving is classified as a Class 2 misdemeanor in North Carolina. Possible penalties include:

Fines: Monetary penalties can be steep, especially for repeat offenses.
License Points: A reckless driving conviction can add four points to your driving record, increasing insurance premiums.
Criminal Record: As a misdemeanor offense, a reckless driving conviction can remain on your permanent record.
License Suspension: In certain cases, repeated offenses or significant speeding violations can lead to a suspended driver’s license.
Jail Time: While less common, reckless driving convictions can carry up to 60 days in jail, depending on the circumstances and your driving history.

These consequences can extend beyond the courtroom. High insurance rates, difficulty finding or maintaining employment that requires driving, and the stress of a criminal record can all have long-term effects.

It’s not just a case, it’s your life.

How a Reckless Driving Lawyer Can Help

At Wilson, Reives and Doran, our attorneys have extensive experience representing clients facing reckless driving and other serious traffic charges in North Carolina. We will:

Evaluate Your Case: We will thoroughly review the details of your traffic stop, your driving record, and any other relevant evidence to identify possible defenses or mitigating factors.
Explain Your Options: The legal process can be confusing. We will break down your charges, potential penalties, and the likely outcomes so that you can make informed decisions about how to proceed.
Negotiate on Your Behalf: Whenever possible, we will negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges or minimize penalties. This may mean seeking a lesser offense or alternative sentencing.
Provide Vigorous Representation in Court: If your case goes to trial, we will present a strong defense, challenging the prosecution’s evidence and fighting for the best possible resolution.
Protect Your Future: Our goal is to help you move forward with as few restrictions and burdens as possible. We strive to protect your reputation, your criminal record, and your driver’s license.

Contact a Reckless Driving Lawyer Today

If you or someone you know has been charged with careless or reckless driving in North Carolina, the legal team at Wilson, Reives and Doran is ready to help. We will answer your questions, discuss potential defenses, and provide you with the skilled representation you need.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us put our knowledge and experience to work for you, helping you navigate the legal process and protect your future.