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Reckless driving can have serious consequences. We’ll work to protect your driving privileges.

If You’ve Been Charged With Reckless Driving in Chula Vista...

Reckless driving in California isn’t treated like a regular ticket—it’s a criminal charge. That means a conviction can affect your job, your insurance, and your driving record for years. And if there was property damage or someone got hurt, things escalate fast. Police reports are one-sided. Officers make assumptions. But what they call reckless often comes down to interpretation. You deserve defense that challenges every part of that story before it becomes your reality.

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Chula Vista Reckless Driving Defense

A reckless driving conviction can carry serious consequences, from hefty fines to potential license suspension and even jail time. These charges can impact your ability to drive, work, and maintain insurance coverage.

At David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys, we have extensive experience defending against reckless driving allegations in San Diego County courts. Our team understands the nuances of California Vehicle Code 23103 and how local prosecutors and judges approach these cases.

We thoroughly investigate each case, challenge evidence when appropriate, and work diligently to protect our client’s driving privileges and personal records. If you’re facing reckless driving charges in Chula Vista, contact our Chula Vista reckless driving lawyers to discuss your legal options and potential defense strategies.

Reckless Driving Laws in California

In California, reckless driving is defined under Vehicle Code Section 23103 as driving a vehicle “in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” This broad definition can encompass a wide range of driving behaviors, including:

• Excessive speeding
• Racing or speed contests
• Aggressive lane changes or weaving through traffic
• Running red lights or stop signs
• Intentionally causing a vehicle to “drift”
• Driving while texting or using a handheld device

Because of the possible wide array of actions that can be considered reckless, having a strong defense that contextualizes behavior within a creative strategy is essential for mounting a proper defense.

Potential Penalties for Reckless Driving in Chula Vista

Reckless driving is typically charged as a misdemeanor in California. The potential penalties may include:

• Up to 90 days in county jail
• Fines of up to $1,000
• Two points added to your driving record
• Potential increases in your auto insurance premiums

These penalties can increase significantly if there are aggravating factors, such as:

• Causing injury to another person (VC 23104)
• Prior convictions for reckless driving or DUI
• Reckless driving in a construction zone

Reckless Driving = Jail, Fines, License Suspension

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Building a Strong Defense Against Reckless Driving Charges

Every case is different. We’ll thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your arrest and develop a tailored defense strategy. Some common defenses we may explore include:

Challenging the Officer’s Subjective Judgment

Reckless driving charges often rely heavily on the arresting officer’s perception of your driving behavior. We may challenge whether the officer had a clear view of your vehicle or if there were other factors that could have influenced their judgment.

Questioning the Evidence

We’ll scrutinize all available evidence, including dashcam or body worn camera footage, witness statements, and police reports. If there are inconsistencies or gaps in the evidence, we may be able to have the charges reduced or dismissed.

Exploring Alternative Explanations

There may be legitimate reasons for your driving behavior that don’t constitute recklessness. For example, you may have been avoiding a road hazard or responding to a medical emergency.

Negotiating for Reduced Charges

In some cases, we may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charges to a less serious offense, such as simple speeding or failure to obey traffic signs.

Why Choose David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys for Your Chula Vista Reckless Driving Case?

When you’re facing reckless driving charges in Chula Vista, you need a defense team that combines legal knowledge, courtroom experience, and a commitment to client service. Here’s why David P. Shapiro Criminal Defense Attorneys stands out:

Contact a Chula Vista Reckless Driving Defense Attorney Today

If you or someone you love is facing criminal charges in California, swift action is imperative. The penalties can be life altering and long lasting. Give us a call today to set up a case evaluation with one of our attorneys and learn how to best protect your freedom and future.

Too often, we see clients who “wait and see,” unsure of the legal landscape ahead, only for charges to escalate. They then find themselves backpedaling into a bad defense and an even worse lawyer. Don’t let that happen to you. Protect your freedom. Protect your future. Know your rights.

The contents of this article and blog are meant for informational and marketing purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Viewing and/or use of the blog does not form an attorney-client relationship. No statements in this post are a guarantee, warranty, or prediction of a particular result in your case.

California Central Courthouse

City courthouse in San Diego, California

• Address:1100 Union St, San Diego, CA 92101
• Hours: Open – Closed 4PM
• Phone:(619) 844-2700

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