When you hear an officer tell you that you’re being charged with reckless driving instead of receiving a speeding ticket, that can be a completely different experience. Now you might be left wondering what the charge means, how serious it is, and what could happen next.
So, what is reckless driving in Tennessee? Under the law, reckless driving generally means operating a vehicle with willful or wanton disregard for the safety of people or property.
Unlike traffic violations, reckless driving is a criminal offense. If you’ve been charged, here is what you need to know about protecting your rights.
What Makes Driving “Reckless” Under Tennessee Law?
People miss turns, brake too late, or accidentally exceed the speed limit every day. A reckless driving charge involves more than an error in judgment.
In these cases, law enforcement looks at whether a driver’s actions showed a conscious disregard for the safety of others or their property. Officers consider the totality of the circumstances before deciding whether to issue a reckless driving charge.
What Types of Driving Can Lead to a Charge?
There is no checklist of actions that automatically result in a reckless driving charge. But Tennessee law does specifically identify certain conduct, including motorcycle front-wheel-raised driving and knowingly driving into a flooded area past a warning sign or barricade.
There are other driving behaviors that can draw the attention of law enforcement. These may include:
- Driving at extremely high speeds
- Weaving through traffic
- Racing another vehicle
- Running stop signs or red lights
- Passing other vehicles when it is unsafe
- Aggressive driving that puts others at risk
Whether a driver’s actions meet Tennessee’s legal definition of reckless driving depends on the facts of each case.
Is This More Serious Than a Speeding Ticket?
While many traffic citations may require you to pay a fine and move on, reckless driving is treated as a criminal offense in Tennessee, and it is a Class B misdemeanor. That means the consequences can be higher.
A conviction may affect your driving record and increase your insurance premiums. That can even leave you with a criminal record. You don’t want to dismiss the charge as just another ticket.
Can You Challenge a Reckless Driving Charge?
Yes. Being charged with reckless driving does not automatically mean you’ll be convicted. Every case has its own facts, and prosecutors must prove the charge beyond a reasonable doubt.
Depending on the circumstances, there may be questions about what happened before the traffic stop, the officer’s observations, road conditions, or whether the evidence supports the allegation.
An experienced criminal defense attorney can evaluate your case, explain the charges, and identify any available defenses.
What Should You Do After Getting Charged?
If you’ve been charged with reckless driving, taking steps early in the process can help you protect your interests. Here are a few tips:
- Read your citation carefully.
- Keep copies of any paperwork related to the traffic stop.
- Avoid discussions about the incident on social media.
- Make sure you know your court date and any deadlines.
- Speak with a Tennessee criminal defense attorney before making important decisions about your case.
The sooner you understand your options, the better prepared for what happens next.
You Don’t Have to Face the Charge Alone
What is a reckless driving charge in Tennessee? This charge involves a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of people or property.
Whether you’re concerned about your driving record, your insurance rates, or the possibility of a criminal conviction, you need to know your legal rights. At DeVore Law, PLLC, we help people throughout Tennessee facing reckless driving and other criminal traffic charges. If you’ve been charged, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
