Is Reckless Driving a Felony in NJ?
In the state of New Jersey, reckless driving is considered a serious traffic violation that can have significant consequences. But is reckless driving a felony in NJ?
Direct Answer: No, reckless driving is not a felony in NJ. However, the penalties for reckless driving in NJ can be severe and have long-lasting effects.
What is Reckless Driving in NJ?
Reckless driving is defined in NJ law as operating a motor vehicle on a public road in a manner that endangers the lives or property of others. This can include actions such as:
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Operating at excessive speeds
- Following too closely
- Changing lanes without checking your mirrors or blind spots
- Ignoring traffic laws and signals
Consequences of Reckless Driving in NJ
While reckless driving is not a felony in NJ, it can still result in severe consequences, including:
• Fines: $250 to $500 in fines
• Losing Your License: Upon a second or subsequent offense, your license may be suspended for up to six months
• Penalties: Up to 30 days in jail
Is Reckless Driving a Misdemeanor in NJ?
In NJ, reckless driving is considered a disorderly persons offense, which is often referred to as a low-grade misdemeanor. This offense is punishable by up to six months in jail, although the maximum sentence is often reduced to community service, fines, or other forms of punishment.
Additional Penalties for Aggravated Reckless Driving
In some cases, reckless driving can become "aggravated" reckless driving, which involves actions that cause serious physical injury or death to others. Aggravated reckless driving is considered a second-degree crime, which can carry penalties of:
- 5-10 years in prison
- Losing Your License: Mandatory suspension of your driver’s license for 3 years
- Community Service: Up to 1,000 hours of community service
Additional Fines and Penalties for Reckless Driving with a CDL
Commercial drivers who are charged with reckless driving may face additional penalties, including:
• Loss of Commercial Driver’s License: Suspended or revoked CDL for up to 10 years
• Increase in Insurance Premiums: Insurance rates may increase as a result of the conviction
How to Challenge Reckless Driving Tickets
If you have received a reckless driving ticket, there are several ways you can challenge the charges and try to reduce the severity of the penalties. You may be able to challenge the ticket by:
• Contesting the Infraction: Appealing the ticket to a judge
• Taking a Defensive Driving Course: Completing a defensive driving course to dismiss the ticket
• Showing Proof of Insurance and ID: Providing proof that you had valid insurance and a valid ID at the time of the incident
Conclusion
Reckless driving is a serious traffic violation in NJ, and the consequences can be severe. While it is not a felony, reckless driving can still result in fines, penalties, and the loss of your license. If you have received a reckless driving ticket, it is important to act quickly to challenge the charges and try to reduce the penalties.
