Washington D.C.'s Reckless Driving Laws and Penalties

In Washington D.C., unsafe driving can lead to reckless driving charges and serious penalties. This article explains how Washington D.C. defines reckless driving and the consequences of a conviction.

What's Considered "Reckless Driving" in the District of Columbia?

Washington D.C. defines "reckless driving" as driving:

• "carelessly and heedlessly in willful or wanton disregard for the rights or safety of others," or
• "without due caution and circumspection and at a speed or in a manner so as to endanger or be likely to endanger a person or property."

Basically, a person can be convicted of reckless driving for operating a vehicle in a manner that puts people or property in danger. (D.C. Code Ann. § 50-2201.04.)

Aggravated Reckless Driving Charges in Washington D.C.

And D.C. has a more serious offense called "aggravated reckless driving." A motorist commits aggravated reckless driving if, while driving recklessly, he or she does one or more of the following:

• exceeds the speed limit by at least 30 miles per hour
• causes bodily harm or permanent disability or disfigurement to another person, or
• causes property damage in excess of $1,000.

Aggravated reckless driving carries enhanced penalties (see below).

Washington D.C.'s Reckless Driving Penalties

The consequences of a reckless driving violation depend on the circumstances. The possible penalties are outlined below.

Jail Time and Fines for 1st Reckless Driving Offense in Washington D.C.

For a first reckless driving violation, the motorist is looking at up to 90 days in jail and/or a maximum of $500 in fines.

Jail Time and Fines for 2nd Reckless Driving Offense in Washington D.C.

Anyone who's convicted of a second reckless driving offense within a two-year period faces up to 180 days in jail and/or a maximum of $1,000 in fines.

Jail Time and Fines for 3rd Reckless Driving Offense in Washington D.C.

A third or subsequent reckless driving conviction within a two-year period carries up to a year in jail and/or a maximum of $2,500 in fines.

Jail Time and Fines for 1st Aggravated Reckless Driving Offense in Washington D.C.

For a first aggravated reckless driving conviction, the motorist is facing up to 180 days in jail and/or a maximum of $1,000 in fines.

Jail Time and Fines for 2nd Aggravated Reckless Driving Offense in Washington D.C.

A second or subsequent aggravated reckless driving conviction within a two-year period carries up to a year in jail and/or a maximum of $2,500 in fines.

Traffic Violation Points for Reckless Driving Convictions in Washington D.C.

A reckless driving conviction will add six demerit points to a motorist's driving record, and an aggravated reckless driving violation is 12 points. Accumulating eight or more points within two years can lead to license suspension.

Reckless Driving and DUI Charges ("Wet Reckless") in D.C.

In D.C., it's possible for a driver who's charged with driving under the influence (DUI) to "plea bargain" for a lesser charge. When a DUI is plea bargained down to a reckless driving charge, it's sometimes called a "wet reckless."

Talk to a D.C. Defense Attorney

The facts of every case are different. If you've been arrested for or charged with reckless driving, get in contact with an experienced defense attorney. A qualified attorney can explain how the law applies to the facts of your case and help you decide on how best to handle your situation.