Reckless driving in Boulder, Colorado involves someone operating a motor vehicle, bicycle, or low-power scooter with disregard for other people’s safety. This traffic offense is more serious than careless driving, which is charged when drivers exhibit a lack of awareness for their surroundings. Being aware of risks involved with driving a certain way and disregarding those risks is what typically results in reckless driving charges. Consulting an experienced reckless driving attorney can prove invaluable when accusations or charges exist.
Reckless Driving in Colorado
C.R.S. 42-4-1401 describes the specific elements of reckless driving in the state of Colorado. Someone commits this traffic crime in Boulder or Longmont if they:
- drive a motor vehicle, bicycle, e-bike, or low-power scooter,
- with a willful disregard for the safety of other people or property
A key element in this traffic offense is that the person makes a conscious choice to drive dangerously. Doing something like purposefully running red lights and ignoring stop signs is an obvious example of reckless driving because those actions are a danger to other drivers, pedestrians, and property.
It is also important to note that charges of reckless driving can apply to operating modes of transportation other than a car, truck, or van. Riding a bike, e-bike, or scooter in a dangerous manner to others can lead to a reckless driving arrest as well.
Reckless Driving Penalties in Boulder
Conviction of reckless driving is a class 2 misdemeanor throughout Colorado. This can mean 10 – 90 days in county jail and up to $300 in fines. However, prior convictions of reckless driving followed by another offense, can lead to steeper penalties. Potential time in jail amplifies to up to 6 months, as well as fines of as much as $1,000. Other ramifications of reckless driving include:
- 8 points to your driving record (unless on a bike),
- restitution to anyone injured,
- community service
Should I Get an Attorney for Reckless Driving?
A charge of reckless driving in Boulder or Longmont can result in difficult consequences. Time in jail, fines, restitution, and community service can all negatively impact your life. Consulting a skilled reckless driving attorney early on can have many benefits. Perhaps you weren’t the one driving the car, but you own the vehicle and were charged. Or maybe your driving was more accurately defined as careless, not reckless.
Nevertheless, contact our office day or night for a free initial consultation. We will carefully analyze your reckless driving case and suggest next steps, all while aiming for the best possible outcome.
If you or someone you know is facing a reckless driving charge in Colorado, be smart. Contact the strategic traffic attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future.
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