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Is Reckless Driving a Misdemeanor?

May 11, 2020
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Tuite Law

Reckless driving is a charge that can be applied when you are driving at a higher speed than the set limit or in other special conditions. In this article, our experienced Rockford Car Accident Lawyers at Tuite Law explains all you need to know about reckless driving in the state of Illinois.

Is Reckless Driving A Misdemeanor in Illinois?

Roadways are becoming more dangerous each year. Especially during the winter season, all drivers must obey the traffic rules and drive safely. Any action that does not comply with the law can be regarded as reckless driving, which results in consequences.

Illinois traffic laws state that reckless driving is any activity while driving a vehicle that deliberately puts others in danger of death or injury. These actions are implemented through traffic references when police officers notice reckless behavior on the road.

Examples of reckless driving

The law is comprehensive when it comes to ascertaining reckless driving. The modest act of speeding can lead to reckless driving charges since when someone is speeding, it is easy to collide with other vehicles or pedestrians. Here are some of the examples of dangerous and reckless behavior:

  • Not yielding to school buses picking up children or pedestrians at crosswalks
  • Racing other vehicles
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  • Speeding across construction zones
  • Driving through stop signs or red lights
  • Changing lanes without sufficient space
  • Talking on your mobile phone while driving
  • Swerving between lanes

Reckless driving in the state of Illinois is charged as a Class A misdemeanor that results in the punishment of up to one-year jail term, a $2,500 fine, or both. The driver will not lose his or her privileges for a single reckless driving conviction.

The state of Illinois does not suspend the driver’s license until three strikes have been given to a driver within one year. The exception to this regulation is if the driver is below 21 years. In this case, the driver’s license will be suspended as soon as the conviction is made.

Other impacts of reckless driving

Reckless driving charges increase a point to the record of a driver, which will, in turn, increase the rate of insurance on the driver’s vehicle. That makes paying for insurance every time more expensive. Reckless driving can result in serious accidents that can leave victims injured or even dead. Under the laws of Illinois, a reckless driver will be required to pay compensation to the injured parties involved in the accident and pay for the damages done to the vehicles of the victims.

The most severe consequences come if a victim dies during a reckless driving car crash. The at-fault driver can be charged with manslaughter and face hefty compensation to the family of the deceased and felony punishments of jail time.

Contact a Rockford, IL Car Accident Attorney

It is always good to travel as safely as possible to avoid unnecessary accidents. Reckless driving results in various punishments, but having the help of an experienced and knowledgeable attorney from Tuite Law can protect you from harsh consequences. To schedule a free consultation with our Rockford, IL traffic violations attorney, call our offices today or fill our online appointment form.

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