Reckless Driving in Washington: What It Means and Why It Matters

Reckless driving isn’t just a serious traffic offense—it’s a criminal charge in Washington State. If you’ve been accused of reckless driving, you could be facing more than just fines or points on your license. You could be looking at jail time, a criminal record, and a suspended driver’s license. At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we regularly represent drivers in Clark County who have been charged with reckless driving, and we’re here to help you understand your rights, the risks, and your options for defense.

What Qualifies as Reckless Driving in Washington?

Washington law defines reckless driving as operating a vehicle “in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” This means that the behavior must go beyond simple carelessness—it must involve a clear disregard for how your actions could harm others. Drivers are often charged with reckless driving for excessive speeding, racing, fleeing from law enforcement, weaving in and out of traffic at high speeds, or running red lights in a way that endangers others. Importantly, you don’t need to be involved in an accident to be charged. The way you drive alone—if it’s dangerous enough—can be enough for police to make an arrest or issue a criminal citation.

The Criminal Consequences of Reckless Driving

In Washington, reckless driving is classified as a gross misdemeanor. This makes it a criminal offense that carries serious penalties. A conviction can lead to a jail sentence of up to 364 days and a fine of up to $5,000. What many drivers don’t realize is that a conviction also comes with a mandatory 30-day driver’s license suspension through the Department of Licensing, even if it’s your first offense. Beyond the courtroom, you may also face sharply increased car insurance rates or even cancellation of your policy, not to mention the potential impact on your job if you drive for a living. For those with a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or jobs that require a clean criminal record, the stakes are even higher.

Can the Charges Be Reduced or Dismissed?

Yes, in many cases, a skilled defense attorney can negotiate to have a reckless driving charge reduced to a lesser offense—such as negligent driving—or even dismissed altogether, depending on the circumstances. Courts will consider the specific facts of your case, your driving history, whether anyone was harmed, and whether you’ve taken any proactive steps, such as enrolling in a defensive driving course. Prosecutors may also be more willing to reduce charges if this is your first offense and you are represented by an attorney who understands how to present a persuasive case for mitigation.

Why You Shouldn’t Face a Reckless Driving Charge Alone

Reckless driving charges carry more weight than most people think. It’s not just about points or fines—it’s about protecting your freedom, your license, and your future. The legal system doesn’t always give second chances, especially if you go it alone or try to handle the case without experienced guidance. That’s where we come in. At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we know how local prosecutors and courts approach these cases, and we’re prepared to advocate aggressively on your behalf.

If you’ve been charged with reckless driving in Clark County or anywhere in Southwest Washington, contact our office today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and help you take the next step toward putting this behind you.