Reckless Driving Attorney on Long Island

Defense Against Misdemeanor Traffic Charges in Garden City, Suffolk County, & Nassau County

Reckless driving is among the most serious traffic-related charges a driver can face in New York, classified as a misdemeanor rather than a simple infraction. The gravity of this charge and the potential impact a criminal record can have on your life, from employment opportunities to professional licensing, makes immediate legal attention essential. Unlike standard traffic tickets, misdemeanor charges require a more comprehensive defense strategy.

At All County Traffic Defense Group, we recognize the significance of the stakes when facing these allegations. Led by Zan Sheikh, our firm offers supportive and experienced defense for clients facing reckless driving charges. We aim to be personable and approachable, helping to alleviate the anxiety associated with criminal court proceedings. 

If you are seeking a reckless driving attorney on in New York City, Long Island, Rockland County, or Westchester County, please call All County Traffic Defense Group at (516) 440-2348 or contact us online.

What Counts as Reckless Driving in New York?

Under VTL 1212, reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle in a way that “unreasonably interferes with the free and proper use of the public highway, or unreasonably endangers users of the public highway.” This definition is broad, which means it can apply to a wide range of situations, from high-speed chases to aggressive lane changes.

To secure a conviction, the prosecution must prove more than simple negligence or a routine traffic violation. They must show a pattern of behavior that demonstrates disregard for the safety of others or the roadway. This often involves proving multiple violations that occur simultaneously, such as speeding combined with tailgating and unsafe lane changes.

Because the statute uses terms like “unreasonable interference” and “endangerment,” there is often room for legal argument about whether the driver’s actions meet this high standard. Defending these cases typically involves analyzing the officer’s observations to demonstrate that the conduct, while possibly improper, did not rise to the level of criminal recklessness.

The Impact of Reckless Driving Convictions in New York

Unlike a speeding ticket, a conviction for reckless driving creates a permanent criminal record. This can have serious consequences beyond the courtroom, affecting employment opportunities, professional licensing, and even immigration status for non-citizens.

In addition to the criminal record, reckless driving carries 5 points on the driver’s license and can result in jail time of up to 30 days for a first offense, along with significant fines. The combination of points, fines, and a criminal record makes this charge particularly damaging.

Insurance consequences are also severe. A reckless driving conviction is considered a significant negative mark by insurers, often resulting in policy cancellation or substantial premium increases. Avoiding the misdemeanor designation is typically the primary defense goal.