Elgin, IL Reckless Driving Attorney
Experienced Reckless Driving Defense Lawyer in Kane County
In Illinois, reckless driving is among the more serious traffic violations. The state defines it as "willful disregard" for the safety of other persons or property while driving. If you have been cited for reckless driving, it can be very costly, with heavy fines and other penalties. If you find yourself in this situation, you should obtain qualified legal representation immediately.
I am Kane County reckless driving defense lawyer Brian J. Mirandola. For over 20 years, I have been practicing law in Kane County and surrounding Chicago area communities. I spent over seven years as assistant county prosecutor, and I have an in-depth understanding of how the county handles reckless driving charges. I have been in private practice for several years now, dedicating myself to helping good people who have made a mistake or lapse in judgment put their lives back on track. When you retain my services, you deal with me personally. I am responsive to your needs, and I provide honest and straightforward legal guidance.
There are numerous traffic offenses that can draw a citation for reckless driving. These include:
- Driving 20 mph or more over the speed limit
- Driving drunk or with drugs in your system
- Running a stop sign or red light
- Weaving from one lane to another (improper lane usage)
- Tailgating another vehicle
- Racing another vehicle
- Intentionally making your vehicle airborne
- Texting while driving
Reckless driving often accompanies other traffic citations such as DUIs and aggravated speeding. But unlike many other violations, driving recklessly is not something that can be easily documented or photographed, so it is often a judgment call by the officer and depends on the individual circumstances surrounding the incident.
Penalties for Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is classified in Illinois as a Class A misdemeanor with fines of up to $2,500 and up to one year in county jail. In addition, the officer may choose to bring the driver into custody at the scene of the incident; if there is no one there to drive the vehicle home, it will be towed, and you will need to pay to get it out of the impound lot. It may be possible to avoid jail time by agreeing to probation, traffic school, and possibly community service. It may also be possible to have the charges dismissed altogether. It all depends on the judge, the circumstances of the case, and your defense strategy.
As a long-time Kane County reckless driving defense lawyer, I have worked with clients cited with reckless driving for many years. I know what it takes to fight these charges and secure the best possible outcome. Contact my office today for a free consultation. The Law Office of Brian J. Mirandola represents clients facing reckless driving charges in Kane County, Cook County, DuPage County, and McHenry County.