What Is Reckless Driving?

Reckless driving is a criminal traffic offense that goes beyond simple speeding or traffic violations. It involves a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.

What constitutes reckless driving (varies by state):

Excessive speeding (often 20-30+ mph over the limit or 80-85+ mph regardless of the limit)

Aggressive weaving through traffic

Racing on public roads

Passing on blind curves or hills

Driving at unsafe speeds for conditions

Fleeing from police

Road rage incidents

Penalties (typical for first offense):

Fines — $500-$2,500+

Jail — Up to 90 days to 1 year (depending on the state)

License suspension — 30 days to 6 months

Points — Significant points added to your driving record

Criminal record — A misdemeanor conviction that appears on background checks

Insurance — Dramatically increased premiums

Reckless driving vs. careless driving. Careless driving (also called inattentive driving) involves negligence without the element of willfulness. It is typically a lesser offense with lower penalties.

Reckless driving causing injury or death. When reckless driving results in bodily harm or death, it can be charged as a felony with penalties including years in prison.

Virginia example. Virginia is notably strict — driving 20+ mph over the limit or over 85 mph is automatically reckless driving, a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail.

This is legal information, not legal advice.