What Is Reckless Driving in NC?
Under G.S. 20-140, reckless driving in North Carolina is defined as driving a vehicle carelessly and heedlessly in willful or wanton disregard of the rights or safety of others, or without due caution at a speed or in a manner dangerous to persons or property. Unlike a simple speeding ticket, reckless driving is a Class 2 misdemeanor - the same classification as many criminal offenses. For broader traffic defense guidance, view all practice areas.
A reckless driving conviction in NC carries: 4 DMV license points, 4 SDIP insurance points (the highest tier short of speed competition), potential jail time of up to 120 days, a permanent criminal record, and significant long-term insurance premium increases. Drivers with a reckless driving conviction can expect insurance surcharges for up to three years.
How Clark Law Defends Reckless Driving Cases
Reckless driving charges can be highly defensible, particularly when the charge stems from a speeding allegation rather than observed dangerous driving behavior. Common defense approaches include negotiating a reduction to a lesser speeding charge, pursuing dismissal on procedural grounds, and challenging the sufficiency of the officer's observations.
Christopher Clark is a former prosecutor with the Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office. He understands how reckless driving cases are built and where they are most vulnerable. Clark Law has successfully secured dismissals and reductions on reckless driving charges in Mecklenburg, Union, and Cabarrus counties - including charges involving very high rates of speed. If your case involves racing allegations, see our speed competition defense page.
In most reckless driving cases, clients do not appear in court. Clark Law handles the negotiation with the District Attorney and the court appearance on your behalf.
Reckless Driving vs. Speeding in NC
| Charge | Key Consequences |
|---|---|
| Speeding ticket | Infraction or misdemeanor - up to 4 DMV points - up to 2 SDIP points - possible criminal record. Learn more at speeding ticket defense. |
| Reckless Driving | Class 2 misdemeanor - 4 DMV points - 4 SDIP points - permanent criminal record - potential jail time. |
The distinction matters enormously. A reckless driving conviction is not just a traffic matter - it appears on your criminal background check and can affect employment, professional licensing, and security clearances.
Attorney Fee
Reckless Driving Defense: $350
Fees listed are standard rates for most cases. Some matters may require a custom quote based on complexity. Clark Law, PLLC reserves the right to decline representation at its discretion. View full pricing.
Serving These Counties
Clark Law defends reckless driving charges across Mecklenburg County, Union County, and Cabarrus County.
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