Reckless Driving

Definition and Consequences of Reckless Driving

• Reckless driving is a major moving violation related to aggressive driving.
• It involves driving with willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.
• Reckless driving is more serious than careless driving or improper driving.
• It can result in fines, imprisonment, or suspension/revocation of a driver’s license.

Causes and Psychology of Reckless Driving

• Reckless drivers often score high in risk-taking personality traits.
• The mental state of reckless driving cannot be attributed to a single cause.
• Different jurisdictions define reckless driving based on subjective mental state or specific driver actions.
• Psychologists have studied reckless driving behavior.
• The examples and perspective in this article primarily focus on the United States.

Penalties for Reckless Driving

• Penalties for first offenses vary by state but may include fines, imprisonment, or both.
• Repeat offenses carry more severe penalties, including increased fines and longer incarceration.
• Civil fines may be imposed for reckless driving offenses, excluding aggravated reckless driving.
• The District of Columbia Traffic Adjudication Act governs the imposition of civil fines.

Presumption of Reckless Driving

• In certain cases, a presumption of reckless driving exists for convictions in foreign jurisdictions.
• Convictions for reckless, careless, hazardous, or aggressive driving in foreign jurisdictions are presumed to be reckless driving under Florida law.
• The presumption can be rebutted if evidence of aggravated reckless driving is presented.
• The requirements for aggravated reckless driving are specified in subsection (b-1) of the law.

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