Morehead City Attorneys Defend Clients Accused of Reckless Driving
North Carolina firm protect the rights of motorists
Being arrested on a reckless driving count could start a process that winds up with you losing your driving privileges or even spending time behind bars. Carolina Law Group, headed by Tommy Kellis, is a Morehead City law firm where accomplished North Carolina attorneys protect the rights of motorists accused of operating their vehicle carelessly. Whether your court case arises from an accusation of speeding, unsafe lane changes or other types of road behavior, we are prepared to challenge the authorities so that you can secure a dismissal, acquittal or reduced charge. Our firm serves clients throughout the Morehead City area, including communities such as Emerald Isle, Atlantic Beach and Newport.
What determines if I was driving recklessly?
One definition of reckless driving in the relevant statute is the careless operation of a vehicle in willful disregard of others’ rights or safety. You can also be charged if a police officer believes you are driving without caution or circumspection and at a speed or in a manner that is likely to endanger people or property. These cases are typically based on subjective observations, but driving at least 15 miles per hour over the speed limit on a road where the limit is 55 miles per hour or higher is legally classified as reckless driving. Aside from speeding, you could face a reckless driving count if the officer thinks you are weaving between lanes, putting pedestrians at risk, disobeying traffic signs or operating your vehicle in an aggressive manner.
Penalties in reckless driving cases
Reckless driving is a Class 2 misdemeanor under North Carolina law. A conviction could result in up to 60 days in jail and a maximum $1,000 fine. However, many sentences for these crimes involve community service or intermediate punishment, which is a form of probation under which the convicted individual might be required to meet certain conditions. Speeding-related reckless driving allegations and multiple offenses within a 12-month period also subject the motorist to license suspension.
Why you need an attorney to fight your reckless driving charge
A mistake or misinterpretation by a police officer could trigger a reckless driving citation. You might have been swerving to avoid a road hazard or temporarily hampered by a slight malfunction. As experienced traffic defense attorneys, we push back against unwarranted allegations and cases that are overcharged by prosecutors.
Contact a Morehead City lawyer if you have been charged with reckless driving
The Carolina Law Group in Morehead City advocates on behalf of motorists who have been accused of reckless driving. To discuss your case with an experienced North Carolina attorney, please call 252-636-3737 or contact us online. We serve clients in Carteret County, inculding Emerald Isle, Atlantic Beach, Newport and other locations.
