Reckless Driving

Skilled Birmingham Traffic Violations Attorney Dedicated to Protecting Your Driving Privileges—and Your Freedom

In Alabama, reckless driving is a serious offense, defined as operating a vehicle with willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. This can include excessive speeding, weaving through traffic, or engaging in dangerous maneuvers. The law is clear: if you are found guilty of reckless driving, you will face at least five days in jail, even if it’s your first offense. This shows how seriously such charges are taken. You need to hire a Birmingham Reckless Driving Defense Attorney today.

At the Stoves Law Firm, P.C., traffic violation Attorney Jason Stoves has dedicated over 25 years to defending clients in Birmingham and nearby regions against reckless driving accusations. Navigating the complexities of these cases demands a lawyer with extensive experience and a proven track record. We understand the stakes and are committed to fiercely advocating for our clients’ rights. If you’re facing reckless driving charges, contact us immediately.

What is Reckless Driving in Alabama?

Under Alabama Code § 32-5A-190, reckless driving is defined as operating any vehicle carelessly and heedlessly in a manner that shows a willful or wanton disregard for the rights or safety of others. If you were arrested for reckless driving, it means police determined you were operating a vehicle without caution, at high speeds, or in a way that endangered people or property.

It is important to note that reckless driving is distinct from other traffic violations, including driving under the influence (DUI). According to the same statute, reckless driving is not considered a lesser charge in DUI cases. This distinction is crucial in legal defense strategies, affecting how these cases are approached and defended.

At the Stoves Law Firm, P.C., we confront reckless driving charges head-on. We delve deeply into the specifics of each case, challenging the evidence and arguing for the best possible outcome.

Examples of Reckless Driving in Birmingham

Reckless driving is a charge that encompasses various dangerous behaviors on the road. It’s not just about speed; it’s about actions that show a clear disregard for the safety of others. At the Stoves Law Firm, P.C., we’ve seen how these charges can affect individuals, and we’re here to help you defend against allegations of reckless driving.

Some examples of reckless driving include the following:

• Speeding significantly over the limit,
• Ignoring traffic signals or stop signs,
• Aggressive lane changes without signaling,
• Passing dangerously or in prohibited areas,
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs,
• Tailgating or following too closely,
• Engaging in street racing, and
• Driving distracted, such as using a phone without hands-free mode.

These actions can lead to reckless driving charges because they put others at serious risk.

Understanding these examples is the first step in recognizing the gravity of reckless driving charges. At the Stoves Law Firm, P.C., we are committed to offering compassionate and vigorous defense to ensure that your recent arrest has as little impact on your future as possible.

Jail Time and Other Penalties for Reckless Driving

Alabama treats reckless driving with strict penalties. In 2022 alone, over 980 lives were lost, and more than 37,000 individuals suffered injuries, some life-changing, on Alabama roads. These stark numbers highlight why the state enforces stringent consequences for reckless driving.

Under § 32-5A-190, reckless driving is generally considered a misdemeanor offense; however, the penalties are severe:

• First-time offenders face five to 90 days in jail, a fine between $25 and $500, or both, and
• Repeat offenders could spend ten days to six months in jail, receive a fine between $50 and $500, or face both penalties.

The court may also suspend your driver’s license for up to six months. Beyond jail time and fines, there are collateral consequences to consider. These can include increased insurance premiums, employment difficulties, and loss of personal reputation.

Defenses for Reckless Driving in Alabama

Defending against reckless driving charges in Birmingham requires a clear strategy and understanding of the law. At the Stoves Law Firm, P.C., we approach these cases with a focus on detail and a strong commitment to advocating for our clients.

Here are some defenses we might employ:

• Challenge the evidence. We scrutinize the evidence presented by the prosecution to ensure it meets the legal standard required for a reckless driving conviction.
• Question the officer’s observations. We often find that the officer’s perspective can be contested, especially if inconsistencies or a lack of objective evidence exist.
• Prove necessity: In some cases, we can argue that the driving behavior was necessary to avoid greater harm, showing that the actions were not reckless.
• Highlight your good driving record. A previously clean driving record can be leveraged to demonstrate that the incident was an outlier and not indicative of the driver’s usual behavior.

These strategies form the cornerstone of our defense efforts, aiming to protect our clients’ rights and futures.

Get Help Defending Against Reckless Driving Charges by Speaking with Our Birmingham Criminal Defense Attorney

Effectively challenging reckless driving charges requires a deep understanding of the law and the details of your case. At the Stoves Law Firm, P.C., we are dedicated to providing you with a compelling defense and leveraging every possible angle to secure a favorable outcome. Attorney Stoves has more than 25 years of experience helping drivers like you get out from underneath serious criminal charges, protecting your driving privileges and your freedom. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation today, call the Stoves Law Firm, P.C. at (205) 823-7233, or you can connect with us through our secure online contact form.