Facing Reckless Driving Charges in Wisconsin?
Accused of reckless driving in Wisconsin? A strong defense is essential. The criminal defense attorneys at Conrardy Law will support you and navigate legal complexities, aiming for the best possible outcome.
Reckless Driving FAQs
When you’re charged with reckless driving or vehicular homicide in Wisconsin, you’re likely going to have a lot of questions. Here are answers to the questions that we get asked the most relating to reckless and negligent driving charges.
While reckless driving is typically a misdemeanor, if the act results in death or severe injury, it can be elevated to a felony. Fleeing and eluding is always a felony. A felony reckless driving charge carries much heavier repercussions, including lengthier jail time and more significant fines. Vehicular homicide in Wisconsin is treated as a serious felony, requiring a robust defense strategy to challenge the prosecution’s claims.
In Wisconsin, there isn't a specific speed that automatically qualifies as reckless driving. However, any excessive speed that can be demonstrated as endangering others may be construed as reckless. Factors such as driving conditions, traffic, whether you were passing in a no-passing zone, or driving over 20 miles per hour above the speed limit can factor into a reckless or negligent driving charge.
Penalties for reckless driving in Wisconsin are not always less than penalties for OWI/DUI, depending on the level of reckless driving and the number of OWIs/DUIs. Reckless driving penalties also compound when alcohol or drugs are involved. The final judgment depends entirely on the specific circumstances of the case, such as whether anyone was injured or killed, if an accident resulted, how fast the offending vehicle was traveling and more.
Reckless Driving Laws in Wisconsin
Reckless driving and/or vehicular homicide in Wisconsin encompass a variety of behaviors and carry a wide range of penalties. Here’s what you need to know as you face your charges.
In Wisconsin, reckless driving typically involves operating a vehicle in a manner that shows a willful disregard for the safety of persons or property. This can include:
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Excessive speeding over the posted limit
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Weaving in and out of traffic aggressively
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Tailgating other vehicles at unsafe distances
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Ignoring traffic signals or signs
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Engaging in street racing
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Driving while distracted by electronic devices
Specific details, such as driving conditions and how fast you were going, can influence the severity of the charge.
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Penalties vary depending on the circumstances and severity of the incident. Reckless driving is generally considered a misdemeanor in Wisconsin, but in cases where it leads to severe injury or fatality, charges could escalate. In those scenarios, it might lead to vehicular homicide charges, which carry far more stringent penalties. Typical penalties for reckless or negligent driving charges driving include:
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Fines ranging from $25 to $500
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Potential jail time up to a year
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License suspension for up to a year
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Increased insurance premiums
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Possible mandatory attendance of driver education courses
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Potential maximum penalty for first-degree recklessly endangering safety can include a prison term of up to 12.5 years and a fine of up to $25,000. The maximum penalty for second-degree recklessly endangering safety can include a prison term of up to 10 years and a fine of up to $25,000.
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Talk to a Lawyer About Your Reckless Driving in Wisconsin Charge
Get a free consultation with a criminal defense attorney who will listen to you and work to build your strongest possible defense for reckless driving in Wisconsin charges.