How long does reckless driving stay on record in Washington state?
Also, assuming certain factors are met, you can have a reckless driving conviction vacated from your record. A DUI conviction in Washington will stay on your record for life. The maximum probationary term for reckless driving is 24 months, less than the term of 60 months for a DUI conviction.
What is the penalty for reckless driving in Washington state?
Reckless driving is considered a serious criminal traffic offense in the State of Washington. As a gross misdemeanor, it carries a maximum sentence of one year in jail and a $5,000.00 fine. If convicted of Reckless Driving in Washington the Department of Licensing will suspend the driver’s license for 30 days.
How much over the speed limit is reckless driving in Washington?
So in Washington, if a driver is traveling 26 mph in a 25 mph zone, that person can be arrested (though it is unlikely and unusual). But if you’re allegedly traveling 164 mph on a motorcycle, you are at high risk of getting arrested and charged with reckless driving.
Can you defer a reckless driving ticket in Washington State?
You may only receive one deferral for a Moving Violation and one deferral for a Non-Moving Violation every 7 years. To apply for the Deferral Program you must meet the following criteria: You must have responded to your traffic ticket within 15 days of the violation date, either by mail or in person.
Is Reckless Driving worse than a DUI?
Generally, reckless driving carries less severe penalties than a DUI charge. So, a wet reckless plea deal typically means lower fines and less potential jail time than would result from being convicted of a DUI. A wet reckless plea can also have advantages with regard to license-related consequences.
What speed is considered Reckless Driving?
More simply stated, anyone who is going faster than 19 mph over the speed limit OR going faster than 80 mph, can be convicted of Reckless Driving.
How do you defer a ticket?
To defer a traffic ticket is to make an agreement with the court to keep it off of your driving record. That means paying the cost of the penalties and sucking up whatever other consequences come your way.
How do I get a deferral?
There are a few courts that will accept a request for deferral by mail or online, but most require that you attend a court hearing to ask for a deferred finding at a mitigation hearing. You will have to rearrange your schedule and possibly take time off of work just to attend the hearing in court.
Does reckless driving ruin your life?
Worrying over a possible conviction for reckless driving can be stressful. A conviction will likely stay on your record. You may not even realize how this could impact your life. If you apply for a job that runs DMV background checks, a charge on your record could impact your ability to gain employment.
Can a traffic ticket be dismissed in Washington State?
Although the state of Washington does not dismiss traffic tickets, you may be able to stop the court from reporting your infraction to the DOL and having it added to your driving record. NOTE: You must contact your local court prior to your appearance date to defer your traffic ticket by completing a defensive driving or traffic school course.
What happens if you get a reckless driving ticket dismissed?
Depending on your state, either the judge or a jury will make a final decision. If you are deemed innocent, your reckless driving ticket is considered dismissed. If guilty, you will be stuck with a reckless driving ticket on your record.
What happens if you take a reckless driving plea?
An experienced attorney can help you decide whether to fight your ticket in court or to take the plea you are offered. The plea may come with conditions or probation, so consider it carefully. Taking a plea does not mean that your reckless driving ticket has been dismissed, it simply means that you have pled guilty to a lesser charge.
Can a DUI conviction be expunged in Washington State?
WA Record Expungement – DUI & Criminal Traffic Convictions. Under Washington Law, certain misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor convictions can be vacated or “expunged”. To have a conviction vacated or expunged means that the person convicted is released from all penalties and disabilities that resulted from the conviction.