Chicago Reckless Driving Lawyer
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), up to 33 percent of all car accident fatalities are caused by reckless driving. For this reason, the state of Illinois takes this traffic offense very seriously. The consequences for reckless driving extend beyond receiving a ticket. Depending on the circumstances, the officer may choose to make an arrest. This can lead to harsh penalties, such as hefty fines, time spent in jail, and a permanent criminal record.
At O’Meara Law, we understand that people are often falsely accused of this crime. In court, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable that your driving was reckless. With an experienced Chicago reckless driving lawyer in your corner, you stand a chance at refuting the prosecution’s arguments and avoiding the consequences of a criminal conviction. Traffic defense lawyer Michael O’Meara will work tirelessly to defend your interests at every stage of the criminal justice process.
To find out how you can get your reckless driving charges reduced or dismissed, call 312-909-0706 today.
What is Reckless Driving?
In Illinois, reckless driving is defined as driving with a wanton disregard for the safety of others. Someone who is driving recklessly may by swerving all over the road, or they may be traveling at dangerous speeds. In each case of reckless driving, it is up to the police to determine whether a person is driving in a dangerous manner. If you get pulled over for reckless driving, you may simply receive a ticket and a stern warning. However, if the officer determines that your driving was particularly dangerous, you may get arrested and charged with a crime.
Criminal and Collateral Consequences
If you get arrested for reckless driving, the police will have your vehicle towed, and you will have to pay to get your car out of impound. But if you are arrested for this crime, having your car towed may be the least of your worries.
In Illinois, the penalties for reckless driving include:
- A fine of up to $2,500
- Up to one year in jail
If you are found guilty of reckless driving, you will have a number of issues to deal with once you have served your sentence. Your criminal record may keep you from getting a good job since most employers are reluctant to hire people with criminal histories. Your plans to continue your education might also be stifled, as most colleges and universities avoid admitting students with criminal records. Many scholarships are also off-limits to people with criminal records.is
How O’Meara Law Can Help
If you have been charged with reckless driving, you need the help of a skilled criminal defense attorney, who may raise a number of defenses on your behalf. One effective strategy, for example, involves proving that your rights were violated at the time of your arrest. The evidence must demonstrate that the police had a valid reason for pulling you over and invading your privacy. If police are unable to present evidence that displays the reckless nature of your driving, it may be possible to get your charges dismissed.
If you are being accused of driving recklessly, you may be worried about the consequences a conviction will have on your life. If you are sent to jail, you may lose your job and be unable to support your family. Attorney Michael O’Meara understands how difficult these situations can be. He will use his 20 years of courtroom experience to get you the best case outcome possible under your circumstances.
Call 312-909-0706 now to find out what defense strategies may be available to you.