What Is Reckless Driving in New York?

Many drivers assume reckless driving is simply a traffic ticket. In reality, reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor offense in New York.

Unlike ordinary speeding violations, reckless driving allegations claim a driver operated a vehicle in a manner that unreasonably endangered others.

Examples may include:

Excessive speeding

Aggressive lane changes

Street racing allegations

Dangerous driving in poor weather conditions

A reckless driving conviction may affect:

Insurance rates

Driver's license status

Employment involving driving

Criminal background checks

Because reckless driving is a criminal charge, it should be taken seriously.