A Georgia Reckless Driving Lawyer Can Help If You Are Facing Speeding Charges
Reckless driving, speeding, or aggressive driving are some of the most common traffic offenses. However, these charges can carry serious consequences. Whether you have been charged with speeding or reckless or aggressive driving, you should speak with a Georgia reckless driving or speeding lawyer to understand your charges, your options, and the potential penalties you are facing.
Reckless Driving in Georgia
Georgia law defines reckless driving as when you drive “in reckless disregard for the safety of persons or property.” While this sounds simple enough, the reality is that there is no clear definition of what exactly constitutes “reckless” driving. Instead, it is charged when the accused was driving in a generally dangerous manner, such as excessive speeding and ignoring traffic signs or signals. It is important to note that you may be charged with reckless driving when a lesser charge may be appropriate. Even if you did commit a traffic infraction, a reckless driving lawyer in Georgia could make sure you are not convicted of an offense you didn’t commit.
Generally speaking, reckless driving is a misdemeanor in Georgia. However, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take these charges seriously. If convicted, you face the following penalties:
- Up to 12 months in jail
- Fines of up to $1,000
- Community service
- Four points on your license
If you are under the age of 21, your license will be automatically suspended if you are convicted.
It is important to remember that the prosecution must prove you are guilty of reckless driving beyond a reasonable doubt. The prosecution may try to pressure you into simply pleading guilty. Before deciding what to do in your case, discuss your charges with an experienced reckless driving lawyer.
A Georgia Speeding Lawyer Can Help You Avoid Points on Your License
You can be charged with speeding for either driving over the posted speed limit or faster than is prudent for current conditions. While you may not face jail if convicted, there is the possibility of points against your license if you were driving more than 15 miles per hour over the speed limit. The possible points that can be assessed against your license are as follows:
- 2 points for driving 15-18 mph over
- 3 points for driving 19-23 mph over
- 4 points for driving 24-33 mph over
- 6 points for driving 34 mph or more over
If you are over the age of 21, your license can be suspended for six months if you accumulate 15 or more points within 24 months. For drivers under the age of 21, their license will be suspended with only 4 points.
Many people elect just to plead guilty, pay the fine, and move on with their lives, only to discover later that their ticket carried unforeseen consequences. Before pleading guilty, you should at least speak with a Georgia speeding lawyer, as they may be able to help you avoid any unnecessary points.
Contact Georgia Reckless Driving Lawyer and Georgia Speeding Lawyer Gabe Winters Today
It’s never “just” a ticket. Reckless driving and speeding charges can carry long-term consequences if you are convicted. To discuss your case and how we can help, call or email us today to schedule a free consultation.