Reckless Driving Vs. Speeding

Rispoli & Borneo P.C.

Speeding Ticket Attorney

Most people are aware that there’s some kind of distinction, but the details are always hazy. What’s the difference between reckless driving and speeding?

As a New Jersey speeding ticket attorney like our friends at Rispoli & Borneo P.C. can explain, reckless driving may involve speeding, but speeding isn’t always reckless driving in the eyes of the law. Read on to learn more about which is which, and see how the right lawyer can help.

What is speeding?

Speeding is exactly what it sounds like: Exceeding the speed limit by any amount. Many people believe that you can go 1, 5, or even 10 miles an hour over the posted speed limit without getting a ticket, but the reality is that if you’re exceeding the speed limit at all, a cop can pull you over. Speeding is speeding, until it becomes reckless driving.

What is reckless driving?

Exceeding the speed limit by 30 miles an hour or more counts as reckless driving in New Jersey. However, reckless driving is an umbrella term. It also extends to racing, illegally passing, or even driving inappropriately for weather conditions. Reckless driving means you were posing a danger to other motorists, and the legal response will reflect that.

What kind of punishment should I expect for speeding?

Speeding is an infraction. If you get a speeding ticket, you’ll have to pay a fine. However, this doesn’t mean you should just shrug it off like nothing happened. Speeding tickets are a major financial burden, not just in terms of your ticket, but in terms of your insurance. A ticket is a mark on your driving record, and that mark stays there for 5 years in New Jersey.

What kind of punishment should I expect for reckless driving?

Unlike speeding, reckless driving is a misdemeanor. You won’t be able to just pay it off. Instead, you’ll have to appear in court. If you’re found guilty, reckless driving can result in hefty fines and even jail time. Unless you’re okay with jail, it’s important to get in touch with a lawyer as soon as possible.

What can a lawyer do for me?

If you’ve received a speeding ticket, or been charged with reckless driving, a lawyer can help you fight against your charges. When you get in touch with a lawyer for your ticket, you’re getting an experienced legal resource and a helping hand that can examine your case and point out how you can defend yourself – and your wallet.

Lawyer Up and Fight Your Ticket

A speeding ticket can cost several hundred dollars, and even more if you have to deal with inflated insurance costs. And a reckless driving charge can land you in jail and leave a mark on your record that can seriously affect your future.

Fortunately, a lawyer can help investigate your case and walk you through the entire process of clearing your name. Getting your charges reduced or dropped completely is possible, but without the right legal assistance, a traffic case is hard to beat.

Don’t wait any longer to get the legal help you need. Get in touch with a speeding ticket attorney today to learn more.