Driving a car, SUV, truck, or van in Douglas County, Colorado with disregard for other’s safety or their property can lead to a reckless driving charge. Even operating a bike or low-power scooter in this manner can lead to trouble. More severe than careless driving, reckless driving goes beyond a lack of concern for the road or conditions. As many Coloradans venture out to enjoy the remainder of summer by car, dangerous behavior behind the wheel can come with consequences. Consult a Parker reckless driving lawyer if you’re facing an allegation of this traffic crime in Douglas County.
Douglas County Reckless Driving Law
Douglas County’s reckless driving law prohibits deliberately dangerous actions while driving. CRS 42-4-1401 provides specific elements of driving recklessly in Colorado. You commit reckless driving in Parker, Castle Rock, or Franktown if you:
- drive a motor vehicle, bicycle, electronic bike, or low-power scooter,
- in a way that demonstrates a wanton or willful disregard,
- for the safety of others or property
Multitasking behind the wheel is a common precursor to reckless driving, especially when something is damaged or someone is hurt from an accident. Putting your makeup on, shaving, or using your smartphone can all be seen as a disregard for other’s safety if done while driving on the highway.
Can You Go to Jail for Reckless Driving in Colorado?
Each reckless driving case in Colorado is different. As a result, the penalties are as well. This traffic crime is a class 2 misdemeanor in Parker, Lone Tree, and Highlands Ranch. A conviction can result in:
- 10 – 90 days in county jail,
- a maximum fine of $300
However, any prior convictions of reckless driving make penalties for a second or subsequent offense more severe. Defendants can face up to 6 months in county jail, as well as up to $1,000 in fines. Reckless driving is also an 8 point offense against your DMV record if you were driving a motor vehicle. In some cases, this can put a defendant over the point limit and suspend their driver’s license.
Representation from a Parker Reckless Driving Lawyer
Consulting an experienced traffic attorney is an important step in beating a reckless driving charge. We have decades of combined experience with these cases and know how the prosecutor operates. Perhaps you weren’t driving the vehicle or your driving was more careless than reckless. Nevertheless, contact our office today for a free consultation. One of our reckless driving lawyers will carefully look over your unique case, as well as suggest next steps. Our affordable fees and flexible payment plans make aggressive representation a reality for Colorado drivers.
So, if you or someone you know is facing reckless driving charges in Colorado, be smart. Contact the determined traffic attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-265-1950. Don’t talk to the police – talk to us.
Photo by Sergey Tarasov