Reckless Driving in NYC

What is a Reckless Driving Charge in NYC?

A reckless driving charge in New York City is more than just a traffic ticket—it’s a criminal offense. Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law §1212, reckless driving is defined as operating a motor vehicle in a manner that unreasonably interferes with the use of the road or endangers others. If convicted, you could face fines, jail time, points on your license, and a permanent criminal record.

Why is a Reckless Driving Charge in NYC a Serious Issue?​

If found guilty of reckless driving in NY, you will have misdemeanor conviction. Additionally, you will be given five points on your license and could be sentenced to jail for up to one year. It is codified as section 1212 of the Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL). Unlike typical traffic tickets which are merely traffic infractions and not criminal, VTL 1212 is a misdemeanor. Unlike typical traffic tickets, if you are found guilty of VTL 1212 you will have a criminal record, potentially go to jail, and have five points added to your license. Insurance companies understand the severity of VTL 1212 and typically increase your insurance premiums if you are convicted. Furthermore, police officers often issue a ticket for VTL 1212 along with another ticket which can result in enough points to suspend your license as well as requiring you to pay a Drivers Assessment Fee of $300 to the New York Department of Motor Vehicles. Given the serious nature of a VTL 1212 ticket, you should definitely hire an attorney if you get a reckless driving charge.

What if I Get a TLC Violation and Don't Own the Vehicle?

In certain instances, a lawyer may be able to negotiate a settlement on one ticket and fight the other. For example, if the driver does not own the vehicle, a good strategy may be for the lawyer to negotiate a plea to one ticket and fight the other ticket related to the owner. The driver could then testify that the owner was unaware that his or her vehicle was being used at all, let alone for an unlicensed vehicle for hire. There is a rebuttal presumption that the vehicle owner permitted the use of his vehicle for illegal for-hire activity as is clear from TLC v Samfes Yo Corp., however, a skilled attorney may be able to present evidence that the owner, in fact, was unaware.

What are the Penalties for Reckless Driving in NYC?

  • Misdemeanor Conviction: Unlike most traffic violations, reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor.
  • Fines & Surcharges: Up to $300 for a first offense, with higher fines for repeat offenses.
  • Driver’s License Points: A reckless driving conviction adds 5 points to your license.
  • Jail Time: Possible jail sentence of up to 30 days for a first offense.
  • Criminal Record: Conviction results in a permanent record that can impact employment, professional licensing, and insurance.
  • Insurance Premium Increases: Convictions for reckless driving often cause sharp, long-term rate hikes.

Can I Beat a Reckless Driving Charge in NYC?

Yes, it is possible to beat a reckless driving charge in New York City, but it requires a strong legal defense. Reckless driving is a misdemeanor offense in NYC, not just a traffic ticket, which means the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that your driving was both unreasonable and endangered others on the road. This high burden of proof creates opportunities for a skilled NYC reckless driving attorney to challenge the case.

How We Support You Against Reckless Driving Violations in NYC?

  • Challenging the Evidence: Reckless driving charges are often based on a police officer’s opinion rather than clear evidence. We scrutinize the circumstances, looking for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
  • Negotiating for Reduced Charges: We fight to have reckless driving charges reduced to non-criminal traffic infractions with fewer points and penalties.
  • Protecting Your Record and License: Our goal is to keep your driving record clean and prevent license suspension.
  • Aggressive Court Representation: We represent you in criminal court, ensuring your rights are protected at every stage.
  • Personalized Defense Strategy: Every case is unique. You get a defense tailored to your situation.

Knowledge & Experience

We understand that many reckless driving charges in NYC are based largely on subjective police observations rather than hard evidence. Our attorneys know how to challenge these accusations, scrutinize the facts, and present arguments that highlight weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. From questioning radar or speed detection methods to pointing out the lack of actual endangerment on the road, we build defense strategies designed to protect your rights and your record.
Our firm has successfully helped clients (everyday commuters, professional drivers, and out-of-state motorists) avoid the most serious consequences of reckless driving charges. In many cases, we’ve been able to negotiate outcomes that reduce the charge to a non-criminal traffic violation, eliminating the risk of a permanent criminal record and minimizing the impact on insurance and employment.

We have extensive experience representing drivers charged with reckless driving in New York City. Because reckless driving is treated as a criminal misdemeanor, not a simple traffic infraction, these cases require both traffic law knowledge and criminal defense skills. Over the years, we’ve defended clients in criminal courts across all five boroughs, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island with a strong track record of achieving dismissals, charge reductions, and favorable plea agreements.

What sets us apart is our hands-on, client-focused approach. We guide you through every stage of the process, from arraignment to court appearances, and we fight aggressively to safeguard your license, your reputation, and your future. When your driving privileges and clean record are at stake, you need a legal team that has the knowledge, experience, and commitment to deliver results.

Fight Your Reckless Driving Violation Now

If you’ve been charged with reckless driving in NYC, don’t take chances with your future. A conviction can follow you for years. Contact our firm today to speak with an experienced NYC reckless driving attorney and get the defense you need.

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