New Jersey Reckless Driving Lawyer

Trusted Reckless Driving Defense Attorney in Camden, NJ, Protecting Drivers and Their Records

Driving recklessly can leave you with more than just a traffic ticket. A conviction for these charges can result in a New Jersey courtroom penalizing you with serious consequences. Because the state considers reckless driving to be a threat to the public, a conviction can mean heavy fines, points on your record, and even jail time. Anyone with a professional driver’s license can even lose their career. Instead of hoping for a slap on the wrist from your reckless driving ticket, let a New Jersey reckless driving lawyer fight to protect you from it. 

At Aydelotte Law, we know that not every incident labeled as “reckless” reflects intentional or dangerous behavior. Sometimes, what police view as reckless driving may simply be a misunderstanding, a momentary lapse in judgment, or an exaggerated charge. A skilled New Jersey reckless driving lawyer can analyze the details of your case, challenge the evidence, and protect your rights in court. If you have been charged, please contact our firm today through our online contact form to schedule a free and confidential consultation with an experienced reckless driving defense attorney in Camden, NJ.

Understanding Reckless Driving Charges in New Jersey

Under N.J.S.A. 39:4-96, reckless driving occurs when a person operates a motor vehicle “heedlessly, in willful or wanton disregard of the rights or safety of others.” This definition is broad and gives police significant discretion in determining what qualifies as reckless.

Common actions that can lead to reckless driving charges include:

• Excessive speeding (typically 30 mph or more over the limit)
• Running red lights or stop signs
• Aggressive lane changes or tailgating
• Racing or contesting speed on public roads
• Driving under the influence (often charged together with DUI)
• Distracted or careless operation that creates a significant risk of harm

For a first offense, penalties may include fines up to $200, a 60-day jail sentence, and up to five points on your license. A second or subsequent offense carries up to 90 days in jail and higher fines. A New Jersey reckless driving lawyer can help you by reviewing the police report, assessing if your actions met the legal definition of reckless driving, and exploring options for beating or reducing your charges. 

Types of Reckless Driving Cases We Handle

Aydelotte Law represents clients in all types of reckless and dangerous driving cases across South and Central New Jersey.

• Speed-related reckless driving: For drivers accused of excessive speeding or highway racing
• Aggressive driving: For incidents involving unsafe passing, tailgating, or other hazardous maneuvers
• Distracted driving: For drivers charged due to phone use or inattention behind the wheel
• Reckless driving causing injury or damage: For cases involving collisions or property loss
• Combination offenses: For reckless driving charges combined with DUI or leaving the scene allegations
• Repeat offenses: For clients facing enhanced penalties or license revocation for multiple violations
• And more: For all other reckless driving or moving violation cases, regardless of severity

There are many different types of reckless driving charges, and the lawyer you choose to represent you needs to be up to the challenges of your unique case. With a New Jersey reckless driving lawyer from our law office, you can get the help you need to identify inconsistencies in the evidence and develop a targeted defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.

The Legal Process for Reckless Driving in New Jersey

Reckless driving cases are handled through New Jersey’s municipal court system. Our NJ traffic ticket lawyers are familiar with the process which typically involves these several key steps:

• Traffic stop and citation: Law enforcement issues a summons for reckless driving.
  Court appearance: The driver must appear in municipal court to enter a plea.
• Evidence review: The attorney examines police reports, video footage, and officer testimony.
• Negotiation: Your lawyer may negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charge to careless driving or another lesser offense.
• Hearing or trial: If negotiations fail, your attorney may challenge the officer’s observations, intent, or credibility in court.
• Resolution: The case may end in dismissal, reduced charges, or sentencing if convicted.

A New Jersey reckless driving lawyer can help you review and understand your rights, comply with all legal deadlines and responsibilities, and adequately prepare a strategy that pursues the ideal outcome in your case.

Consequences of a Reckless Driving Conviction

By understanding what is at stake in your case, you can better understand the importance of having skilled legal representation help you build a custom-tailored defense. The impact of a reckless driving conviction extends far beyond fines and license points. It can affect your insurance rates, employment opportunities, and even your criminal record.

Common penalties include:

• Fines and surcharges: Significant financial costs, including court fees and insurance increases
• License suspension: The judge may suspend your license for up to six months for a first offense
• Jail time: Up to 60 days for a first offense and up to 90 days for a repeat violation
• Five MVC points: Added to your driving record, which can trigger further penalties for point accumulation
• Insurance consequences: Substantial premium increases or policy cancellations

Commercial drivers may also lose their jobs after a conviction for reckless driving. These charges have the potential to disrupt your driving, your career, and your future, so make sure you rely on the guidance of a New Jersey reckless driving lawyer after police issue you a ticket. 

Defending Against Reckless Driving Charges

At Aydelotte Law, our defense approach focuses on exposing weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and demonstrating that your conduct did not meet the threshold for “reckless” behavior.

Effective defense strategies may include:

• Challenging officer observations: Questioning subjective interpretations of your driving behavior
• Arguing lack of intent: Showing that the actions were careless rather than willfully reckless
• Disputing radar or speed accuracy: Examining calibration records and officer training
• Presenting mitigating factors: Demonstrating good driving history or emergency circumstances
• Negotiating reduced charges: Seeking an amendment to careless driving or other non-criminal violations

A New Jersey reckless driving lawyer from our law firm can help you review the unique factors of your case to develop a strong strategy that reflects your individual situation. We are not a law firm that settles for “good enough” representation. Instead, we fight for the ideal outcome every time. 

How Aydelotte Law Can Help

Facing a reckless driving charge can be intimidating, especially if you have never been in legal trouble before. At Aydelotte Law, we approach every case with understanding, professionalism, and personal care. We recognize that mistakes can happen, and our goal is to help you through this process with dignity and reassurance.

From your first consultation, we take time to listen to your concerns, review the evidence, and explain what to expect in court. We will keep you informed at every step and ensure you understand your rights and options. Our attorneys know how stressful these situations can be, and we are committed to providing both strong representation and emotional support throughout your case.

Whether your charge arose from a misunderstanding, poor weather conditions, or an overzealous traffic stop, we will stand by your side and work to protect your record and reputation.

Why Choose Aydelotte Law

Aydelotte Law has earned a strong reputation for compassionate, client-centered representation. We believe every person deserves fairness and respect in the legal system. Our firm provides individualized attention and open communication, so you are never left wondering about your case’s progress.

We are available 24/7 to answer questions, address emergencies, or discuss your next steps. Our attorneys handle each case with care and focus on achieving the best possible outcome for every client.

If you have been charged with reckless driving, contact Aydelotte Law today or submit your inquiry through our online contact form to schedule a complimentary consultation. Speak with a reckless driving defense attorney in Camden, NJ, who will fight to protect your license, your record, and your future.

Frequently Asked Questions About Facing Reckless Driving Charges in NJ