Montrose Reckless Driving Attorney 

Facing reckless driving charges can be a stressful experience that affects more than just your driving record. A conviction can lead to fines, jail time, points on your license, higher insurance rates, and even long-term consequences for employment or professional licenses. If you have been charged with reckless driving, having a Montrose Reckless Driving Attorney on your side can help protect your rights, reduce penalties, and guide you through the legal process. The Martin Law Firm offers experienced legal support for individuals dealing with these serious traffic offenses. Call us today at (970) 730-4354 for a free consultation.

What is Reckless Driving in Colorado?

Reckless driving is more than just going fast or breaking a traffic rule. In Colorado, it is defined under Statute CRS 42-4-1401 as operating a vehicle with a deliberate disregard for the safety of people or property. This includes behaviors that put others at risk even when the driver is fully aware of potential dangers. Reckless driving is classified as a Class 2 traffic misdemeanor, which carries both criminal and administrative penalties.

It is important to distinguish reckless driving from careless driving. Careless driving happens when a person is not fully aware of the risks they create. Reckless driving, on the other hand, involves intentional or willful behavior that endangers others. Because of this, penalties for reckless driving are generally higher, and a conviction can have long-term impacts beyond fines and jail time.

Common Types of Reckless Driving Offenses

Reckless driving can take many forms. Some of the most common types of reckless driving include:

• Speeding excessively, such as 25 miles per hour over the posted limit
• Tailgating or following other vehicles too closely
• Ignoring traffic signs and signals, including running red lights or stop signs
• Weaving through traffic or unsafe lane changes
• Driving with defective brakes or other vehicle hazards.
• Racing other vehicles on public roads
• Evading a lawenforcement officer
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Passing a stopped school bus
• Texting or using electronic devices while driving

Each of these behaviors can lead to serious penalties and long-term consequences if charged as reckless driving.

Penalties for Reckless Driving

The penalties for reckless driving depend on whether it is a first offense or a repeat offense and whether any injuries or property damage occurred. First-time offenders may face:

• Fines up to $300
• Jail time up to 90 days
• 8 points added to DMV driving record

Repeat offenders could face:

• Fines between $50 and $1,000
• Jail time of 10 days to six months
• Community service
• Restitution to any victims if the incident caused injury or death

Because reckless driving is considered a Class 2 traffic misdemeanor, it is also counted as a habitual traffic offender strike. Accumulating multiple offenses under this classification could result in a license suspension of up to five years.

The Criminal Process for Reckless Driving

Understanding the process can help reduce stress and prepare you for what lies ahead. After being stopped or arrested, drivers may be issued a citation or taken into custody. This is followed by the following steps:

• Booking at a local police station or detention center, where fingerprints and photographs are taken
• Arraignment in municipal or county court, where charges are formally presented
• Pretrial hearings or conferences to discuss plea agreements, motions, or bailconditions
• Trial or plea resolution if negotiations do not result in a satisfactory outcome

Having an experienced attorney during each step of this process can improve your chances of minimizing penalties and protecting your rights. Local knowledge of Colorado courts, such as the Denver County Court or municipal courts in Aurora, Boulder, or Jefferson County, can make a significant difference in your case.

Points on Your Driving Record and Traffic School

Reckless driving charges carry points that remain on your driving record. These points can lead to higher insurance premiums and may contribute to license suspension if combined with other violations. Colorado assigns 8 points for a reckless driving offense and 4 points for careless driving. Speeding violations add between 1 and 12 points depending on the severity.

Traffic school may be available in certain cases to help offset points and reduce insurance impact. Eligibility usually depends on:

• Having a valid driver’s license that is not suspended or revoked
• Offense not related to a commercial driver’s license
• Charge not elevated to a misdemeanor or felony

Protecting Your Future

A reckless driving charge can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to define your future. With the right legal support, you can reduce penalties, protect your driving privileges, and keep your record as clean as possible. Each case is unique, and our attorneys focus on the specifics of your situation to provide personalized and effective representation.

By working with a Reckless Driving Attorney, you gain an advocate who will fight for your rights at every step. We approach every case with thorough preparation, attention to detail, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

Don’t wait until your next court date. Contact The Martin Law Firm at (970) 730-4354 for a free consultation. We will explain your options, answer your questions, and help you plan your next steps. Protect your license, protect your record, and protect your future with experienced legal representation you can trust.