Legal Question in Traffic Law in Washington

Re: wrecless driving consequences

Under RCW 46.61.005(2), the state can enforce the reckless driving statute on private property, so the fact that this may have happened off the public roadway isn�t any defense. Reckless driving is a gross misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and a five thousand-dollar fine. Those convicted of reckless driving also have their licenses suspended for 30 days by the DOL.

If you just got your license and you have no prior offenses, the consequences of being convicted for reckless could range from no jail to up to five days and from $250 in fines up to $1,500 to higher. The court will probably also order you to take a driver re-education class.

Obviously, your sentence will vary and will depend on the factual circumstances of the case. And again, a conviction for reckless driving will also trigger a loss of license and you will have to obtain high-risk insurance (SR-22) just to get your license back. The SR-22 must be maintained for three years.

I highly recommend that you fight the charge. Proof of recklessness is often elusive and absent an accident, it comes down to the citing officer�s opinion and not fact. In the hands of a qualified trial attorney, a charge of reckless driving can be impossible to win for the prosecution. There may also be the possibility to getting a reduction to Negligent Driving 2nd degree, which is an infraction for which you do not go to jail or lose your license. Therefore, consider hiring a lawyer before pleading guilty.