Legal Question in Traffic Law in Illinois

Question concerning penalty for tickets I received

I was given 3 tickets on 2-16-03. One was for Reckless Driving, the other for speeding 81mph in a 40mph zone, and the other for failing to keep lanes. I have a clean driving record with no convictions. I am wondering what the penalties are for these offenses and whether or not I should bring counsel to court.


Asked on 2/19/03, 9:34 am

4 Answers from Attorneys

David Shestokas Shestokas, & Associates

Re: Question concerning penalty for tickets I received

Reckless driving is a Class "A" misdemeanor. Driving more than 40 MPH over the speed limit is also a Class "A" misdemeanor. This means that both of these offenses carries a possible 364 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,500. However, there is specific law regarding reckless driving and how it can be charged, it must be on a "long form", that means a simple uniform traffic ticket is not sufficient to prosecute you for reckless driving. Also, the speeding ticket, since it is "aggravated speeding" must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, unlike a simple speeding charge. You may have significant defenses to both cases, but they hinge on important legal issues. Additionally, convictions on these cases can have significant effect on your driving privileges and your insurance rates. Given the severe possibilities and the intricate potential legal defenses you are in need of counsel. Should you wish to discuss the matter further you can call at 630-243-0099.

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Answered on 2/19/03, 9:31 pm
Mary McDonagh McDonagh-Faherty Law Offices

Re: Question concerning penalty for tickets I received

Due to the seriousness of the charges, an attorney is in a better position to help you because of their knowledge of the law but also because they have better leeway with attorneys to negotiate on your behalf.

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Answered on 2/20/03, 1:12 pm
Lawrence Falli Falli Law Offices

Re: Question concerning penalty for tickets I received

Should you sustain a conviction on all three of those tickets, your driver's license will be suspended by the secretary of state.

Reckless driving is a fairly serious charge and the fine can be substantial. Beyond that, your auto insurance will undoubtedly increase if you are convicted.

The lane usage charge, if convicted, will likely lead to a $75 fine.

If you feel you need legal assistance do not hesitate to call me, 773 588 6325, or the Chicago Bar Association attorney referal line, which can be found on the web.

Good Luck!

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Answered on 2/19/03, 11:09 am
Roger Malavia The Malavia Law Firm

Re: Question concerning penalty for tickets I received

This is fairly serious because reckless driving is a class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 364 days in jail. You should definitely get an attorney to represent you. If it was just a speeding ticket you could handle it yourself but this involves potential loss of liberty. Feel free to call us if you have any more questions.

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Answered on 2/19/03, 11:31 am


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