Reckless and careless driving may sound like they may mean the same thing, but New Jersey law specifies a distinction with which our Monmouth County traffic violation lawyers are familiar. Here is how New Jersey Statutes define each offense:
These laws sound very similar, and the decision of which charge to issue is made at the police officer’s discretion. The primary distinction between reckless and careless driving is that a reckless driver is well aware they are driving dangerously, while a careless driver has no ill intent.
Potential Consequences for Reckless and Careless DrivingMonmouth County courts issue far different penalties for careless driving compared to reckless driving. Penalties for a first offense of careless driving is a an $85 or $140 fine and 2 points on a driver’s license. Comparatively, penalties for a first offense reckless driving may include a $50 to $200 fine, up to a 60-day prison sentence, and five points on a driver’s license. Additionally, a judge can suspend your license for a reckless driving violation if he/she deems you a road hazard.
If you have received a reckless or careless driving ticket, it is in your best interest to contact one of the experienced Monmouth County lawyers at Goldstein Law Group. Since the police officer determines whether you were driving carelessly or recklessly, it may be possible to alleviate a reckless driving charge. The traffic violation lawyers at Goldstein Law Group have more than 50 years of combined experience practicing law and are prepared to build your reckless or careless driving defense.
Why should I seek legal counsel from Goldstein Law Group if I am being charged with reckless or careless driving?
If you have been issued a ticket for careless or reckless driving in Monmouth County, the municipal court attorneys at Goldstein Law Group are prepared to build your defense and attempt to negotiate a lesser penalty. To schedule your free 10-minute case evaluation, please call today at (732) 967-6777 or fill out our contact form.