Understanding Reckless Driving in Minnesota: Penalties, Charges and Defenses

Reckless driving is a serious offense in Minnesota, with penalties that can affect your freedom, driving record, and insurance. If you’ve been charged with Reckless Driving MN, it’s crucial to understand the law and how an experienced attorney can help.

What is Reckless Driving in Minnesota?

Under Minnesota Statute 169.13, reckless driving is typically a misdemeanor, but it can be elevated to a gross misdemeanor if the actions result in “great bodily harm.”

• Misdemeanor Reckless Driving: Punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a fine of $1,000, or both.
• Gross Misdemeanor Reckless Driving: If great bodily harm occurs (such as broken bones), the charge can result in up to 364 days in jail and a fine of $3,000.

What Behavior Constitutes Reckless Driving?

Reckless driving involves behavior where the driver knowingly disregards significant risks. Minnesota law defines reckless driving as:

• Driving with Significant Deviations: Actions such as speeding excessively (e.g., 130 mph) or dangerous lane changes may qualify.
• Street Racing: Operating a vehicle while willfully competing in a speed contest, even if under the speed limit, is considered reckless driving.

What to Do If You’re Charged With Reckless Driving

If you’re charged with First Offense Reckless Driving MN, hiring an attorney is crucial. While reckless driving is serious, there is often more flexibility than with other charges like DWI. At Shek Law, we can help reduce charges through several avenues:

• Downgrading to a Petty Misdemeanor: Your charge could be reduced to a minor offense like speeding.
• Plea Deals: Prosecutors may dismiss reckless driving charges in exchange for a guilty plea to a lesser offense, such as careless driving.
• Diversion Programs: In some cases, it may be possible to avoid a conviction through probation or diversion.

Does Reckless Driving Affect Your Driving Record and Insurance?

Yes. A Reckless Driving MN conviction will remain on your driving record for five years or more, and it will likely result in higher insurance premiums. By securing a better outcome, you can potentially reduce long-term financial impacts.

Wet and Dry Reckless

In Minnesota, DWI charges are sometimes pled down to reckless driving, although this is rare. Typically, attorneys prefer a Careless Driving plea, which falls under a different statute.

• Wet Reckless: Involves admitting that alcohol influenced your driving.
• Dry Reckless: No mention of alcohol is made in your plea.

Conclusion

If you’re facing Reckless Driving MN charges, you need a skilled attorney to protect your rights. At Shek Law, we specialize in defending reckless driving cases and working toward the best possible outcome. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.