Knoxville, TN Reckless Driving Defense Attorneys

There are numerous reasons why people in Tennessee may be charged with traffic violations. Some of these offenses are simple moving violations with penalties that may include fines. However, others may be more serious, potentially resulting in criminal charges. Reckless driving is one of those serious offenses, and a person who is convicted of this offense may face multiple types of penalties that could affect their driver's license, their finances, their career, or even their freedom.

Because reckless driving charges can be far more serious than a simple traffic ticket, legal representation from a knowledgeable and skilled attorney can be essential in these situations. At The Baker Law Firm, our lawyers can provide an experienced legal defense for people who are charged with reckless driving in Knoxville and throughout Tennessee. We understand how to challenge accusations of reckless driving, defend against a conviction, protect our clients' driving privileges, and work toward the best possible resolutions to these cases.

How Tennessee Law Defines Reckless Driving

Under Tennessee Code Annotated § 55-10-205, reckless driving charges may apply when a person is accused of driving in a way that shows a purposeful disregard for the safety of others. A person may be charged with reckless driving if they deliberately ignore the potential consequences of their actions. These offenses generally involve dangerous actions that go beyond ordinary traffic violations.

Unlike most moving violations, reckless driving is a misdemeanor offense, not a civil infraction. A conviction can have serious legal and personal consequences, especially for those who rely on their ability to drive to get to work or take care of family responsibilities.

Penalties for Reckless Driving in Tennessee

A person who is arrested for reckless driving will face Class B misdemeanor charges. A conviction may result in a jail sentence of up to six months and/or a fine of $500, plus an additional $50 fine to be deposited in a county fund. Six points will also be added to a person's driving record, which could result in a driver's license suspension if they accumulate at least 12 points within a single year.

A reckless driving conviction will remain on a person's criminal record, potentially appearing on background checks. At The Baker Law Firm, our attorneys can help determine whether reckless driving charges may be reduced to lesser offenses or dismissed entirely when the facts and evidence demonstrate that a person did not engage in reckless or dangerous behavior.

Examples of Reckless Driving Behavior

Tennessee's definition of reckless driving is intentionally broad, giving officers and prosecutors wide discretion to charge people with this offense if they are considered to have been acting in a dangerous or unsafe manner. Some examples of actions that may lead to reckless driving charges include:

• Excessive speeding, especially if a person was traveling more than 30 miles per hour over the posted limit
• Racing or engaging in street competitions
• Aggressive lane changes or tailgating
• Passing another vehicle in a no-passing zone or on a blind curve
• Running red lights or stop signs in a dangerous manner
• Driving while distracted or drowsy and putting others at risk of harm

In some cases, a person may be charged with reckless driving because they allegedly caused a car accident due to dangerous behavior. However, even if no accident occurs, a driver can still face criminal prosecution based on observations by police officers. Our lawyers will carefully review police reports, video footage, and witness statements to determine whether a person's actions truly met the legal definition of recklessness. We will work to defend against a conviction that could lead to long-term penalties.

How Reckless Driving Charges Can Affect Commercial Drivers

For commercial driver's license (CDL) holders, the stakes of reckless driving charges can be even higher than for other drivers. A reckless driving conviction is typically classified as a serious traffic violation for a commercial driver. Multiple convictions within a three-year period can result in the disqualification of a CDL. A person convicted of two serious violations may face a disqualification for 60 days. The disqualification period increases to 120 days following a third serious violation.

Even a first offense can have devastating consequences for commercial drivers. A person may lose out on employment opportunities, since a serious violation on their record may prevent employers from hiring them. At The Baker Law Firm, we work with commercial drivers to prevent issues that could affect their CDLs and protect their livelihoods.

Defense Strategies in Reckless Driving Cases

Every case is unique, and the most effective defense will depend on the specific facts involved. Our lawyers may use a range of strategies to challenge reckless driving charges, such as:

• Questioning the Officer's Judgment: We may take steps to prove that a person's actions were not willful, but that they simply made a mistake.
• Challenging Radar or Speed Detection Evidence: We can examine calibration, maintenance, and usage records to determine whether the devices used by police gave accurate readings.
• Investigating Environmental Factors: We can determine whether poor weather, road conditions, or mechanical issues may have contributed to an incident.
• Negotiating for Reduced Charges: In some cases, charges can be reduced to a non-criminal moving violation, helping our clients to protect their records and avoid jail time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Reckless Driving in Tennessee

How Our Attorneys Can Help With Reckless Driving Charges

At The Baker Law Firm, we have extensive experience representing clients facing both traffic violations and criminal charges in Knoxville and throughout Tennessee. We will investigate every detail of your case, identify weaknesses in the state's evidence, and advocate for alternatives to a criminal conviction whenever possible. Whether you are a first-time offender or a commercial driver whose livelihood depends on your license, our team can help you take steps to protect your rights and fight for your future.

Contact Our Knoxville, Tennessee Reckless Driving Defense Lawyers

If you are convicted of reckless driving charges, you may face serious, long-lasting consequences. To defend against these charges and minimize the penalties that may apply to you, reach out to The Baker Law Firm today. Contact our Knoxville reckless driving attorneys at 865-200-4117 to arrange a free consultation and begin building your defense.