
Reckless driving can result in severe penalties in Clark County, including citations and tickets that may impact your insurance and financial stability. Such offenses often stem from dangerous driving behaviors like negligence or engaging in activities that increase risk on the road.
If you were arrested for reckless driving in Nevada under NRS 484B.653, contact a criminal justice attorney at Gallo Criminal Defense Las Vegas to discuss your case. Reckless driving is often linked to traffic violations, crashes, and incidents involving patrol officers. The crime focuses on the driver's state of mind, often involving allegations of reckless behavior or creating a danger to others. These cases can be complex for the prosecutor to prove at trial. For this reason, your attorney will attempt to get the charge dismissed entirely or at least reduced to a less severe charge.
Additionally, in many DUI cases, your attorney may negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the reckless driving charge. This helps avoid a DUI conviction, but a plea to reckless driving still carries penalties and risks, including potential fines, citations, or increased insurance costs.
If you were charged with reckless driving or are interested in the consequences of such a plea after a DUI arrest, then contact attorney James C. Gallo. Call (702) 385-3131 to discuss your case today. Attorney James C. Gallo is experienced in representing clients for criminal driving offenses such as DUI, reckless driving, and violations throughout Clark County, Nevada.
Definition of Reckless Driving in Nevada
Nevada law defines reckless driving as "a person driving a vehicle in willful or wanton disregard of the safety of persons or property." Such behavior often leads to traffic violations, citations, or even accidents. A reckless driving charge can result in severe penalties, including fines or a ticket, especially if the offense involves a crash that endangers others.
Examples of Reckless Driving in Las Vegas
The most common examples of reckless driving in Las Vegas, Nevada, include:
- failing to stop a vehicle after being directed to do so by a law enforcement officer;
- striking the shoulder of the roadway or the median while driving;
- Running a red light or stop sign;
- speeding more than 25 miles over the speed limit;
- failing to maintain a lane while speeding significantly over the speed limit or
- Racing another vehicle on the roadway.
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Reckless Driving
Under Nevada law, the vast majority of reckless driving allegations are misdemeanors. However, suppose it is alleged that the reckless driving incident caused substantial physical harm or injury or resulted in the death of another person. In that case, the charges can be elevated to a felony.
Under Nevada Statute, NRS 484B, the punishment for a first reckless driving offense includes up to six months of jail time and a fine of $250 to $1,000. The penalties increase for subsequent reckless driving charges, with fines of $1,000 to $1,500 for a second conviction and $1,500 to $2,000 for a third. These charges can have severe consequences for your record, including demerit points added to your driving history, which could affect your rights as a driver and result in higher insurance costs.
Under NRS 484B.130, the penalties in Nevada for reckless driving can be doubled if the incident occurred in a work zone. Enhanced penalties apply if the charges involve a speed contest or unauthorized racing on a public highway. The court must impose additional consequences in such cases, including a six-month to two-year driver's license suspension, vehicle impoundment, and community service.
If you're facing reckless driving charges, you must protect your rights by seeking advice and information from a legal team with experience handling such cases. Evidence and the specific circumstances of your case can play a critical role in your defense. Contact an attorney for a consultation to receive personalized advice and ensure your rights are upheld every step of the way.
Common Causes of Reckless Driving in Las Vegas
Reckless driving is a severe offense in Las Vegas and across Nevada. Understanding the typical behaviors that lead to this violation can help drivers avoid the consequences outlined in Nevada's laws under NRS 484B.653. Some frequent causes include:
- Excessive Speed: Driving at dangerously high speed on a highway, road, or through a work zone increases the risk of accident and injuries to anyone on the road.
- Drag Racing: Engaging in a speed contest or illegal street racing, classified as a felony in many cases, harms other drivers and pedestrians. This reckless activity often occurs at dangerous locations and can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment for the defendant.
- Road Rage: Aggressive actions, such as tailgating, weaving between lanes without signaling, or intentionally cutting off another vehicle, fall under reckless behavior and may lead to accidents and legal consequences for the defendant.
- Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting in-car controls while driving can lead to accidents, as these actions divert attention from the road. This is a behavior that endangers anyone nearby.
- DUI-Related Offenses: Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs increases the risk of reckless driving. Such offenses often occur in locations like nightlife districts and can have severe outcomes.
Consulting a reputable office for legal defenses can help mitigate the effects of a reckless driving charge. Before choosing an attorney, check reviews and ensure they have experience handling cases under Nevada laws like NRS 484B.653. Understanding your legal options and the name of an experienced attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Drivers should know that reckless driving convictions can lead to license suspension, fines, or even jail sentences.
How Reckless Driving Affects Your Driving Record in Nevada

A reckless driving conviction in Nevada can leave a lasting mark on your driving record, as it carries severe consequences:
- Demerit Points: Reckless driving adds eight points to your record, which can lead to a driver's license suspension if the total exceeds the legal limit. This can happen when reckless behavior is proven, such as driving dangerously near medians or in congested areas.
- Increased Insurance Rates: Insurance companies often view reckless driving offenses as high-risk, leading to significantly higher premiums. A reckless driving misdemeanor offense or property damage lawsuit can exacerbate these financial penalties.
- Permanent Record Implications: A reckless driving charge, mainly if classified as a category B felony, can remain on your record for life, impacting employment opportunities and creditworthiness. For more severe cases, penalties can include state prison time, depending on the cause and severity of the incident.
- Location-Specific Issues: Certain areas like school zones or busy urban centers may lead to heightened scrutiny of reckless driving charges. A conviction in these locations could result in harsher legal penalties.
The DMV in Nevada processes reckless driving offenses seriously, and drivers are encouraged to consult experienced lawyers to protect their rights and mitigate the outcome. Seeking legal help can provide numerous benefits, such as reducing the severity of charges or avoiding unnecessary penalties. Attorneys can use video content or other evidence to defend their clients vigorously.
Defending Against Reckless Driving Charges in Nevada
If you are facing a reckless driving charge, it's crucial to mount a vigorous defense with the help of a skilled lawyer. Here are some strategies that can be used:
- Challenging Evidence: An experienced attorney may scrutinize evidence, such as dashcam videos or police reports, for inaccuracies. For example, evidence of running red lights or improper lane changes in a specific area could be challenged if the circumstances were unclear.
- Proving Lack of Intent: Reckless driving often requires proof of willful negligence. Demonstrating that the incident was unintentional or caused by external factors (e.g., weather conditions or a medical emergency) may help. This is especially relevant in cases involving NRS 484B.550 violations, which require a detailed analysis of the type of behavior involved.
- Negotiating Lesser Charges: In some cases, an attorney may argue to reduce the charge to a less severe offense, such as careless driving or a misdemeanor, to avoid harsher penalties like county jail time. This approach can minimize fees and penalties.
- Understanding the Law: An explicit knowledge of Nevada's reckless driving laws, especially NRS 484B.653, is critical for adequate representation. Attorneys can provide support tailored to their client's interests and help navigate complex legal processes, such as completing the appropriate form for reduced charges.
- Utilizing Online Resources: Platforms like Google and YouTube can be used to educate defendants about their legal options. Viewing legal content related to reckless driving may help defendants prepare for consultations with their attorneys.
Hiring a reckless driving attorney with local expertise in Las Vegas ensures that your defense team will provide tailored advice for the best possible result. Whether addressing a message from the prosecutor or defending your case in court, an attorney will focus on protecting your rights and achieving a favorable outcome.
Understanding Demerit Points for Reckless Driving in Nevada
Nevada's demerit point system is designed to penalize unsafe driving behaviors, including reckless driving. Here's what you need to know:
- Point Allocation: Reckless driving adds 8 points to a driver's record, more than most other violations, such as running a red light or improper lane changes. These points can accumulate quickly and significantly impact your driving status.
- License Suspension: Accumulating 12 or more points in 12 months results in automatic license suspension by the Nevada DMV, potentially leading to harsher penalties like a jail sentence. Drivers should exercise care in understanding the long-term effects on their records.
- Reducing Points: Drivers may attend DUI school or a victim impact panel as part of a plea bargain to reduce the impact of reckless driving charges. These services aim to educate and reform unsafe driving behaviors.
- Role of Legal Assistance: Handling a reckless driving case often requires a clear understanding of the facts and skilled legal representation. Attorneys can assist in securing reduced penalties or negotiating alternatives, such as enrolling in traffic school. Their expertise ensures proper handling of the matter in compliance with DMV regulations.
- Communication and Documentation: Drivers should maintain open communication with their attorney. It is crucial to share the phone numbers of witnesses, gather relevant evidence, and address all charges promptly. In addition, consulting legal professionals can help drivers prepare a strong case and ensure proper completion of necessary forms.
The DMV emphasizes traffic safety, and drivers are advised to address reckless driving charges quickly to avoid further consequences. Legal professionals can offer assistance tailored to the driver's circumstances and clarify disclaimers or legal obligations. For more information on your rights and options, contacting experienced legal counsel is essential. This helps ensure your actions align with the purposes of Nevada's driving laws and protects your driving privileges following a reckless driving charge.
How Reckless Driving Differs from Careless Driving in Las Vegas
It's essential to understand the difference between reckless driving and careless driving under Nevada law, as the two carry different punishments and definitions:
- Reckless Driving: Defined as a willful disregard for the safety of persons or property. This can include drag racing, excessive speed, or other intentional behaviors that endanger others. Reckless driving can result in felony or misdemeanor charges, fines, and even jail time. In some cases, a police officer may determine the severity of the charge based on the specific types of actions involved.
- Careless Driving: While still a serious offense, careless driving refers to unintentional negligence, such as failing to yield at a red light or drifting within a lane. The penalties are typically less severe, often involving more minor fines or driver education requirements.
Understanding these differences is crucial for building an effective defense. Attorneys can provide detailed guidance on the necessary steps to take and work on your behalf to reduce charges or penalties. Legal professionals often include a disclaimer when explaining outcomes, as each case depends on specific circumstances.
Drivers seeking more information can follow resources shared via platforms like Instagram for updates or visit legal websites that provide a clear link to traffic laws and legal services. Consulting an experienced attorney ensures a strong defense with minimized legal fees and penalties, whether dealing with a reckless driving charge or careless driving citation.
Punishments for Felony Reckless Driving in Nevada
An officer responds to a reckless driving incident in Las Vegas.
A felony reckless driving conviction is a category B felony and carries a penalty of one to six years in prison and/or a $2,000 to $5,000 fine. Reckless driving often involves dangerous actions, such as road rage or improper use of the road's shoulders, which can endanger people and vehicles.
Under NRS 484B.550, if the incident of "reckless driving causing death" occurred while the driver was disregarding an officer's order to stop or attempting to flee and elude the police, then the driver will be charged with a category B felony punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000.
The proper legal representation can significantly impact the results of your case. If you or someone you know is charged under NRS 484B.653 for reckless driving, consulting an experienced attorney is crucial to protect your rights and navigate the legal process effectively.
Finding a Reckless Driving Attorney in Las Vegas
If you were charged with reckless driving in Las Vegas, NV, as either a misdemeanor or felony, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at Gallo Criminal Defense Las Vegas to discuss your case. James C. Gallo represents clients on reckless driving charges throughout Clark County, including Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, Henderson, Boulder City, and Mesquite. Call (702) 385-3131 today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it permissible to resume driving promptly following a reckless driving conviction?
You can resume driving after completing any necessary fees and terminating your license suspension. Before reclaiming your driving privileges, you may also be obligated to complete a traffic safety course or satisfy other conditions if you are subject to a license suspension.
What is the duration of a negligent driving conviction on my record?
A negligent driving conviction will remain on your criminal record indefinitely unless you are eligible for expungement. Additionally, it may remain on your driving record for an extended period, impacting your insurance rates and driving privileges.
Can my negligent driving conviction be reduced?
Reducing a reckless driving charge to a less severe offense, such as negligent driving, which carries fewer penalties, is possible in certain instances. A council can negotiate a reduction in charges based on the circumstances of your case.
If no one was injured, will I be sentenced to imprisonment for reckless driving?
Jail time is less probable for a first offense without injuries, but it is still feasible, mainly if it is particularly severe (e.g., excessive acceleration, street racing). Offenders may be subjected to fines, probation, and community service instead of imprisonment. Nevertheless, incarceration may be the result of more severe incidents or recurrent offenders.
Even if no one was injured, is it possible for me to be prosecuted for reckless driving?
Certainly, irresponsible driving can result in an arrest, even if no one is injured. The dangerousness of the driving behavior itself, rather than the consequence, is the defining characteristic of reckless driving. You may be arrested and charged if the officer believes you were driving in a manner that endangered others.
In Nevada, is imprudent driving classified as a misdemeanor or a felony?
In Nevada, reckless driving is generally prosecuted as a misdemeanor. Nevertheless, the charge of reckless driving may be elevated to a felony if it results in the serious injury or death of another person. This classification entails significantly more severe penalties, such as longer prison sentences and higher fines.
Can I expunge reckless driving from my record?
Reckless driving is generally not eligible for expungement in Nevada, as it is classified as a criminal offense. Nevertheless, it may be feasible to negotiate a lower charge or an alternative sentencing option with the assistance of an experienced defense attorney, contingent upon the specific circumstances of your case and whether the offense was classified as a misdemeanor.
Can my driver's license be suspended as a result of irresponsible driving?
Indeed, a driver's license suspension for up to six months may result from an imprudent driving conviction. The duration of the suspension may fluctuate based on the severity of the offense, whether it is a repeat violation, and whether any party was injured as a consequence of your actions.
What are the repercussions of striking an individual while operating a vehicle heedlessly?
The accusations against you may be increased if you cause an accident and injure someone while driving recklessly. Depending on the severity of the injuries or death resulting from the accident, you may also be charged with injury or manslaughter in addition to negligent driving. The penalties for such offenses are significantly more severe and may include substantial fines and extended prison sentences.
Can I be prosecuted for negligent driving through a red light?
If running a red light is performed in a hazardous manner, such as at a high speed or in low-visibility conditions, and poses a threat to public safety, it may be classified as negligent driving. Nevertheless, reckless driving may be accused of a traffic violation or careless driving if no accident or injury occurs.
Website URL: https://www.gallolawnv.com/criminal-defense/traffic-offense/reckless-driving
Review Ratings: https://g.page/r/CfTBY5vKoUUxEBM/review