What are the penalties for reckless driving in Florida?
Fort Myers, FL—In the State of Florida, it is illegal for any person to drive any vehicle “in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.”1 Those who do shall be charged with reckless driving. A reckless driving charge carries the following penalties for first-time offenders:
- A prison sentence of up to 90 days and/or;
- A fine of at least $25 but no more than $500.
Any individuals who are convicted of reckless driving for a second or subsequent time will likely face the following penalties:
- A prison sentence of no more than six months and/or;
- A fine of no less than $50 but no more than $1,000.
If an individual in Fort Myers, FL is facing a reckless driving charge, a criminal defense lawyer can help them understand their charges and assist them through each step of their case. In addition, if the individual’s rights were violated during their arrest or they are innocent of the crime they have been accused of committing, a Fort Myers criminal defense attorney can help them fight their charges or potentially get them reduced to a lesser degree.
When Reckless Driving Leads to Property Damage or Injuries
If an individual was operating their vehicle in a reckless manner and they caused property damage, they shall be charged with a misdemeanor of the first degree. A misdemeanor of the first degree may carry jail time and a fine of at least $1,000.2 Drivers who operate their vehicle recklessly and cause serious bodily injury to another is said to have committed a felony of the third degree. A felony of the third degree may also carry jail time along with a fine of up to $5,000.
What if a driver was accused of committing other crimes in addition to reckless driving?
If a driver was accused of committing multiple crimes such as driving under the influence (DUI), driving without a valid driver’s license, or any other criminal offense, they should consider retaining a defense lawyer as soon as possible. Although a charge does not mean an individual is guilty, they are going to want to hire a Fort Myers criminal defense attorney who has a proven track record of obtaining favorable outcomes in the cases they have represented.
The Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, P.A. is Ready to Defend Those Who are Facing Criminal Charges in Fort Myers
If an individual was recently charged with reckless driving or any other type of criminal offense, The Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, P.A. is prepared to help them with their case. Fort Myers criminal defense attorney Michael M. Raheb has helped dozens of individuals get their charges dismissed or lowered to a lesser degree and is available to provide legal advice and/or help to anyone else who might need it.
The Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, P.A. is located at:
2423 First Street
Fort Myers, FL 33901
Phone: 239-989-2336
Website: www.michaelraheb.com
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