Los Angeles Reckless Driving Attorney

Facing A Reckless Driving Charge In Los Angeles

If you have been cited or arrested for reckless driving in California, you are not just dealing with a traffic ticket. You are facing a criminal charge that can affect your record, your license, and your future. When this happens in Los Angeles, the situation can feel urgent and confusing.

At Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners, we focus on guiding people through criminal charges in this area. Our team of Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys has more than 75 years of combined experience navigating local courts and defending drivers accused of serious offenses. We meet with you in person for a complimentary initial consultation and begin working to understand what really happened.

From the first meeting, our goal is to give you clear information, honest advice, and a strategy that fits your circumstances. We take the time to explain how reckless driving cases move through the Los Angeles County court system so you know what to expect at every step.

Call (213) 481-6811 to discuss your case with our team.

What is Reckless Driving?

Under California Vehicle Code § 23103, reckless driving occurs when a person drives a vehicle with willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. Unlike ordinary traffic violations, reckless driving involves behavior that goes beyond simple negligence or a momentary lapse in judgment.

Examples of actions that may lead to a reckless driving charge include:

• Excessive speeding, especially in residential or high-traffic areas
• Weaving through traffic or aggressive lane changes
• Racing on public streets (often charged alongside reckless driving)
• Ignoring traffic signals or stop signs
• Driving in a manner that endangers pedestrians, cyclists, or other motorists

In Los Angeles, law enforcement officers have broad discretion when determining whether a driver’s behavior qualifies as reckless. This means many drivers are charged even when no accident occurred and no one was injured.

Penalties for Reckless Driving in California

Reckless driving is typically charged as a misdemeanor in California, though penalties can vary based on the circumstances and whether you have prior convictions.

First-Time Reckless Driving Offense

A conviction for a first offense may result in:

• 5 to 90 days in county jail
• Fines ranging from $145 to $1,000 (plus court fees)
• 2 points on your California driver’s license
• Probation
• Increased insurance premiums

Reckless Driving Causing Injury

If reckless driving results in injury to another person, penalties increase significantly and may include:

• 30 days to 6 months in jail
• Fines up to $1,000
• Mandatory restitution to the injured party
• Potential civil liability

Repeat Offenses

A second reckless driving conviction within 10 years can lead to:

• 10 days to 6 months in jail
• Higher fines
• Possible license suspension

Because the penalties are severe and long-lasting, it is critical to speak with a Los Angeles reckless driving lawyer as soon as possible after an arrest or citation.

Legal Defense to Reckless Driving

Just because you were cited or arrested does not mean you will be convicted. At Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners, we evaluate every reckless driving case for weaknesses and legal defenses that can reduce or dismiss the charges.

Common defenses to reckless driving include:

Lack of Willful or Wanton Conduct

Reckless driving requires proof that you intentionally disregarded safety. If your actions were merely negligent or the result of a momentary error, the charge may not stand.

Insufficient Evidence

Prosecutors often rely heavily on an officer’s subjective opinion. We challenge whether the evidence—such as dashcam footage, radar data, or witness statements—actually supports a reckless driving allegation.

Speed Measurement Errors

If the charge is based on speeding, we may question the accuracy of radar or lidar devices, as well as whether they were properly calibrated and operated.

Emergency or Necessity

In some cases, a driver’s actions were taken to avoid a greater danger, such as swerving to prevent a collision or responding to a medical emergency.

Reduction to a Lesser Offense

Even when dismissal is not possible, we often negotiate to have reckless driving reduced to a non-criminal traffic offense, such as speeding, which avoids jail time and a criminal record.

Reckless Driving FAQs

Is reckless driving a felony in California?

Reckless driving is generally charged as a misdemeanor. However, related offenses or aggravating factors may expose you to more serious consequences.

Will I go to jail for reckless driving?

Jail time is possible, even for first offenses. An experienced lawyer may be able to avoid incarceration through dismissal, reduction, or alternative sentencing.

Can reckless driving be reduced to a speeding ticket?

Yes, in many cases. A skilled Los Angeles reckless driving lawyer can often negotiate a reduction that avoids a criminal conviction.

Will reckless driving affect my insurance?

Yes. A conviction typically leads to significantly higher insurance premiums and may result in policy cancellation.

Do I need a lawyer for reckless driving?

Because reckless driving is a criminal offense with potential jail time, hiring a lawyer is strongly recommended.

Why Drivers Turn To Our Firm

When your driving and your record are at stake, the lawyer you choose matters. Drivers turn to our firm because we know how reckless driving allegations are investigated, charged, and resolved in the Los Angeles County criminal courts.

That local familiarity helps us evaluate how prosecutors may treat your case and what options might realistically be available. We study the facts of every case, including the location of the stop, traffic conditions, any alleged high speed or weaving, and your prior record. Then we build a tailored defense plan instead of relying on a one-size-fits-all approach.

Our attorneys are known for strong negotiation skills with prosecutors. In many criminal traffic cases, focused negotiation can result in reduced charges or resolutions that limit long-term consequences. When a fair outcome cannot be reached through negotiation, we are prepared to proceed to trial and present your side of the story to a judge or jury.

Just as important, we provide candid legal advice. We do not make false promises or guarantees. Instead, we explain the strengths and challenges of your case and work with you to decide on a strategy that reflects your goals and risks.

To talk with a reckless driving lawyer Los Angeles drivers can turn to for informed and candid guidance, contact us today for your consultation.