Home »
» Defenses to Arizona's Reckless Driving Law (ARS 28-693)
Feature Article: Understanding Arizona's Reckless Driving Law
Introduction: The Consequences of Reckless Driving
We've all seen it on the road: drivers who speed, weave through traffic, and ignore traffic signs and signals. But reckless driving isn't just a minor mistake or misjudgment – it's a pattern or instance of driving behavior that endangers the safety of others. In Arizona, reckless driving is defined under Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) 28-693. This law specifically states that reckless driving is the operation of a vehicle with a reckless disregard for the safety of persons or property. If convicted of reckless driving, a driver can face serious consequences, including fines and even jail time.
Understanding Arizona's Reckless Driving Law
According to ARS 28-693, there are several types of driving behaviors that can be considered reckless. These include speeding excessively, weaving through traffic aggressively, ignoring traffic signals and signs, and engaging in dangerous maneuvers without regard for potential consequences. It's important to note that reckless driving is not just a single driving error or misjudgment – it's a clear pattern or instance of dangerous behavior that puts others at risk.
If you are convicted of reckless driving in Arizona, the penalties can be severe. Under ARS 28-693, reckless driving is considered a Class 2 misdemeanor. This means that you could face fines of up to $750, up to four months in jail, and a suspension of your driver's license for up to 90 days. Additionally, a reckless driving conviction will stay on your record and could impact your ability to get a job or secure car insurance in the future.
Defenses to ARS 28-693
If you are facing a reckless driving charge in Arizona, it's important to understand the potential defenses that may be available to you. One possible defense is to argue that your driving behavior did not meet the legal definition of reckless driving. If your actions were not a clear pattern or instance of dangerous behavior, it may be possible to have your charges reduced or dismissed.
Another potential defense is to argue that you were not aware of the potential consequences of your actions. For example, if you were driving in a way that was dangerous, but you did not realize that your behavior could be considered reckless driving, your attorney may be able to argue that you did not have the requisite mental state to be found guilty of the offense.
Hiring an Attorney for Your Reckless Driving Case
If you're facing a reckless driving charge in Arizona, it's important to seek the advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney. A skilled attorney can help you understand the potential consequences of your charges, evaluate the evidence against you, and develop a strong defense strategy. In some cases, an attorney may be able to negotiate with prosecutors to have your charges reduced or dismissed, or to secure alternative sentencing options that minimize the impact of your reckless driving conviction.
Conclusion
Reckless driving is a serious offense in Arizona, with potentially severe consequences for those convicted. If you're facing a reckless driving charge, it's important to understand the legal definition of the offense, the potential defenses that may be available to you, and the importance of hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney to represent you. With the right legal guidance, you can protect your rights, minimize the impact of your charges, and move forward with your life.
Reckless Driving in Arizona Defenses to ARS 28-693-.
