Connecticut law makes it illegal to drive in a way that endangers other people on the road, such as driving too fast for conditions or operating a faulty car. Regardless of the circumstances that led to a reckless driving charge, you have the right to defend yourself. Working with a New Haven reckless driving lawyer on a defense strategy may be your best bet to avoid criminal convictions and penalties.

At Ruane Attorneys, our traffic attorneys are prepared to help you fight against these charges. We understand what is at stake for you and will work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

The Legal Definition of Reckless Driving

Connecticut General Statute §14-222 defines reckless driving as driving in a way that endangers other people. For example, someone driving too fast for the road conditions may be charged with this offense. Typically, the government can prosecute people for this offense if the person operates a vehicle in an unsafe manner in the following areas:

• A parking lot designed for ten or more cars
• A public road
• A private road with a speed limit
• A public highway
• School property

Additionally, Connecticut’s law makes it illegal for people to drive commercial vehicles like semis while coasting (e.g., with the gears or clutch disengaged). If someone goes over 85 miles per hour, the state can charge them with reckless driving. This is true even if the person was driving safely.

Our reckless driving attorneys in New Haven can help drivers facing these charges protect their rights and prospects. Ruane Attorneys will analyze the case, looking for evidence to support a strong defense. We can also closely review the law for any applicable exceptions that may help persuade the judge to dismiss or reduce the charges.

Penalties for a Reckless Driving Conviction in New Haven

The consequences of a reckless driving conviction may include fines and jail time. Typically, the fees range from $100 to $300 for first-time offenders but increase significantly for repeat offenses. The judge could also sentence a defendant to jail for up to thirty days for a first offense—subsequent offenses increase the maximum sentence to a year.

The court may increase the charges if the driver has multiple traffic violations on their record. Additionally, those with a commercial driver’s license may face other penalties, such as a suspended or revoked license. If reckless driving leads to someone’s injuries or death, the potential consequences increase drastically.

Having to serve a jail sentence or pay hefty fines can significantly impact someone’s ability to keep their job, pay their bills, and move forward with their life. A reckless driving lawyer in New Haven can help protect a person’s future by defending them against the charges or negotiating for a fair plea deal.

Speak with a Reckless Driving Lawyer in New Haven Today

If you are facing a reckless driving charge, you can fight the charges alone or hire an attorney to help you. Trying to handle your defense without legal counsel can place an unnecessary burden on you and lead to crucial mistakes that hurt your chances of a successful outcome. Entrusting an attorney can give you peace of mind that your case is in good hands.

The New Haven reckless driving lawyers at our firm understand what you are going through and are here to fight for your best interests. We will comb through the evidence to find a strategy that helps get the charges dismissed or lowers the penalties. Contact Ruane Attorneys today to schedule a consultation.