Reckless driving charges are applied when a driver tends to ignore the safety of others. You can become a danger for yourself and others on the road if you practice reckless driving in Georgia. If you have been charged with reckless driving, it is essential to hire an experienced car accident attorney who will explore the best options to build a strong defense. Our team of lawyers is knowledgeable and skilled to understand the impact of these charges on your future.
The majority of vehicle accidents are caused by someone else’s negligence or carelessness. Dealing with car accidents becomes traumatic for the people involved. In 2019, around 9,478 people died due to speeding. Several actions are considered negligent and being reckless while driving can have devastating consequences. You should be aware of reckless driving and how it impacts others.
Actions that Qualify as Reckless Driving in Georgia:
Reckless driving in Georgia occurs when a person neglects the safety of others and shows carelessness. Many actions can be considered as reckless driving including:
- Speeding significantly over the speed limit
- Tailgating
- Failing to yield
- Running red light
- Racing with other vehicles
- Driving under the influence
- Driving a faulty vehicle
- Running stop signs
- Weaving through traffic
An individual can face additional charges along with reckless driving charges. For instance, a person involved in an accident while driving under the influence will face reckless driving and DUI charges.
Penalties for Reckless Driving:
Reckless driving is considered a misdemeanor charge in Georgia. This penalty not only adds 4 points to the driving license, but also includes up to one year of jail time, and up to a $1,000 fine. The judge can impose other conditions such as community service, as well as drug and alcohol evaluation. The license of a driver will be suspended if they are under the age of 21 and convicted for reckless driving charges.
Penalties significantly increase when additional charges are involved. If a driver attempts to run away from the police, the jail time and the fine will increase. If a serious injury or homicide is reported due to reckless driving, the person who caused the accident will face felony charges and a prison sentence. Reckless driving is a separate offense, with a maximum fine and or up to 30 days in jail.
If you are charged with reckless driving, it will remain on your criminal record permanently. Your driver’s license can also get revoked or suspended depending on the severity of the accident and injuries caused to the other party. You will also get points against the driving record along with an increased insurance premium for the vehicle and community service. Reckless driving is considered a more serious offense than other normal traffic offenses.
With these types of actions, you will face a lot of consequences including criminal and civil financial penalties. You can suffer severe accidents due to reckless driving; the severity of injuries suffered by the people involved varies according to the intensity of the collision. Reckless driving can result in the following injuries:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Fractures
- Dislocated bones
- Severe open head wounds
- Spinal cord injury
- Paralysis and disability
- Internal bleeding
- Internal organ damage
Point System in Georgia:
The Georgia Point System for each driving conviction determines points from 2 to 6 points. Any violence that has 4 points will result in a driver’s license suspension for a driver under the age of 21. If a driver over the age of 21 received 15 points within 24 months then their driving privileges will be suspended.
Getting in touch with an experienced criminal defense attorney can help your case. If you are facing reckless driving charges, know your legal rights; speak to our firm and know more about the legal process. Reckless driving can result in serious consequences and having an attorney at your side will benefit the case outcomes.
Hiring an Experienced Attorney:
We support our clients in a variety of legal matters. If you or your loved ones have been hurt due to reckless driving in Georgia, someone else’s negligence, or you are facing criminal charges, we will fight for your rights. Speak to our car accident attorneys today and consult your case as reaching out to an attorney will help you throughout the case. Our expert attorneys will be able to handle every aspect of your case and we aim to strengthen your case to obtain successful outcomes. We are here to completely investigate the case and identify the liable party. Let us help you in recovering the loss for your damages.