This is the next post in my series on dealing with Little Rock, Arkansas reckless driving charges. My last article discussed what constitutes reckless driving in our state. It is important to understand that any “wanton disregard” for the public’s safety can result in charges being brought. Many make the mistake of thinking that such charges are “no big deal” when, in fact, they can have a serious impact on your future. Consulting with an attorney can help you to understand your possible defenses against the charges. In this article I will address the question of whether reckless driving is a misdemeanor or a felony. If you or a loved one are in need of assistance then contact my office today to speak with a criminal defense lawyer.
Reckless driving constitutes a Class “B” misdemeanor under Arkansas law. A first offense will result in five to ninety days in jail, in addition to fines. This penalty can escalate to a sentence of thirty to ninety days if an individual is injured as a result of the conduct. Subsequent convictions within a three-year period will lead to increased penalties and can even result in up to one year in jail. This is in addition to the various problems which arise as the result of a misdemeanor conviction. These problems include the individual being saddled with a permanent criminal record. This can make it more difficult to pass a background check, to obtain housing, to gain employment, and more. So, while reckless driving may be a misdemeanor and not a felony, the bottom line is that it can lead to serious consequences in one’s life.
Reckless driving convictions can also have an impact on your driving privileges. A single conviction will be counted as eight “points” against your license. In Arkansas, any driver who receives at least fourteen points against their license, in any three-year period, will have their right to drive suspended. It goes without saying that this can make it more difficult to get to work and to conduct the other tasks which are necessary in one’s life. This can include the fact that if you are a parent who has child custody issues, then the inability to drive may be seen as impacting your ability to provide care for the child. Also, if and when your ability to drive is restored, you are likely to be assessed much higher rates for insurance.
If you or a family member have been charged with a crime then contact my office today to speak with a Little Rock reckless driving lawyer. I understand the serious impact that such a charge can have on your future. I believe that everyone is entitled to a vigorous defense and my office will give your case the attention it deserves. Contact us online or by telephone to schedule an initial consultation. I also handle matters in Fayetteville, Fort Smith, Springdale, Jonesboro, North Little Rock, Conway, Rogers, Pine Bluff, and throughout the remainder of Arkansas.