Houston Reckless Driving Attorney
We often see drivers acting irresponsibly while on the roadways. They may be driving at speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour or weaving in and out of lanes. They may be driving while intoxicated or fleeing from the police. These maneuvers are dangerous and can lead to serious accidents. If you have been involved in a crash involving a reckless driver, seek legal help right away. A Houston reckless driving attorney can ensure you receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
What is Reckless Driving?
Texas reckless driving laws apply to roads, public highways, parking lots, and parking garages.
Reckless driving refers to willful disregard for the safety of others. This means that the driver was well aware that their driving could be endangering others. Even if there are no other vehicles on the road and you did not cause any property damage, you can still receive a citation for reckless driving. Common types of reckless driving include the following:
- Excessive speed (Usually 15 or 25 miles per hour over the posted speed limit)
- Driving too fast for road conditions
- Driving while intoxicated (this can sometimes be negotiated down from a DUI to a “wet reckless” violation
- Street racing
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Running stop signs and red lights
- Illegally passing a school bus
- Evading the police
Is Reckless Driving a Crime?
Reckless driving is different from speeding in that speeding simply results in a citation, or speeding ticket. Reckless driving, on the other hand, is an actual criminal charge.
Under Texas law, reckless driving is typically a misdemeanor. It is punishable by a $200 fine and up to 30 days in jail. The charge could appear on your criminal record. For subsequent offenses, you could get your license suspended. The charge could be elevated to a felony if the reckless driving led to an accident that caused serious injuries or death.
Racing is also a type of reckless driving that can lead to felony charges. If you have three racing offenses, you could face up to two years in state jail. If the racing causes injuries, you could face a third-degree felony, which can result in a punishment of 2-10 years in jail. If someone is seriously injured or killed due to racing, the charge is elevated to a second-degree felony, which means up to 20 years in prison.
Contact a Houston Reckless Driving Attorney Today
Reckless driving is an activity that can endanger the lives of others. When people drive unsafely, they can cause serious accidents that can lead to catastrophic injuries and even death. If you have suffered damages due to another person’s reckless driving, The West Law Office can help you file a claim against the liable party. Schedule a free consultation today. Call 281-347-3247 or fill out the online form to speak with a Houston car accident attorney.
