Arizona’s Reckless Driving Laws

Introduction

Reckless driving, like criminal speeding, is a common offense in Arizona. Because it does happen often, some drivers believe it won’t have much of an impact, but this isn’t the case. A reckless driving conviction can be a misdemeanor that can lead to jail time, significant fines and a suspended license.

If you’re facing a reckless driving charge in Arizona, it’s important to know that it’s something that won’t go away on its own. But with the right team – the defense attorneys at JacksonWhite Law – you can give yourself the best chance of minimizing your penalties.

Do You Need an Attorney for Reckless Driving in Arizona?

Although it’s not required, having a reckless driving attorney can significantly improve your chances of having your penalties reduced.

Reckless driving in Arizona is governed by statute 28-693, which states that reckless driving is any kind of driving that shows “disregard for the safety of persons or property.”

The statute makes it clear that reckless driving can be a class 1 or class 2 misdemeanor offense, and carries penalties respective of those classes.

So although you don’t technically need a reckless driving attorney, facing the typical sentencing for the charge without the right representation could lead to more penalties than you’d face with an attorney.

Penalties for Reckless Driving in Arizona

Class 1 or Class 2 Misdemeanor §28-693(A), (B) & (D)

Imprisonment:

• 1^st Offense: Class 2 Misdemeanor-Not more than 4 months.
• 2^nd or subsequent offense (within 24 months): Class 1 Misdemeanor-Not more than 6 months. §13-707(A)(1) & (2)

Fine:

• 1^st offense: Class 2 Misdemeanor-Not more than $750.00.
• 2^nd or subsequent offense (within 24 months): Class 1 Misdemeanor-Not more than $2,500.00. §13-802(A) & (B)

Licensing Action:

• 1^st offense: Suspended for not more than 90 days.
• 2^nd or subsequent offense (within 24 months or within 60 months under §28-3304(A)(7)): Revoked for no more than 1 year. §§28-693(D) & (D) and 28-3304(A)(7)

Other:

• The licensing agency may require an offender to attend a defensive driving (traffic) school. §28-3306 & AAC R17-4-506
• An offender is also subject to assessments which can be 60% of the fine imposed. §§12-116.01 & 12-116.02
• An offender may be required to pay the costs of their incarceration. §28-694(A)

Need Your Reckless Driving Penalties Reduced?

We’ve helped clients facing traffic charges throughout the Phoenix metro area, and we can help you next. If you’d like to make sure your reckless driving charge makes as little impact as possible on your life, we invite you to call for your free case review today.

The Mesa defense attorneys at JacksonWhite Law are dedicated to providing you with the highest level of professional, personalized service based on the needs of your case. When you’re ready, we can help move forward after your reckless driving charge.

Call the JacksonWhite Criminal Law team at (480) 467-4370 to discuss your case today.