Waukegan, IL Reckless Driving Defense Lawyer

Reliable Attorney Supporting Clients Accused of Reckless Driving in Waukegan, Illinois

Sometimes, a mistake made behind the wheel can lead to a reckless driving charge. Contrary to what you might expect, this is not simply a ticket you can pay to avoid lasting consequences. Rather, it is a criminal offense with the potential for incarceration. If you have been accused of this traffic violation, get in contact with a Waukegan, Illinois reckless driving defense lawyer who can work to defend you.

At Law Office of Theodore S. Potkonjak, we provide clients with legal advice and representation to defend against allegations of reckless driving. When you work with our attorney, you will receive hands-on legal assistance to protect your rights.

What Does Illinois Law Say About Reckless Driving?

Under Illinois law, reckless driving occurs when a driver operates a vehicle in "willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property." Examples include excessive speeding well beyond posted limits, weaving in and out of traffic, racing on public roads, passing stopped school buses, or making unsafe lane changes at high speeds. While the definition is somewhat broad, the statute for reckless driving also specifically states that using an incline at a railroad crossing, hill, or bridge crossing also qualifies as reckless driving.

A conviction for reckless driving is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in county jail and fines of up to $2,500. When an act of reckless driving results in someone else getting seriously hurt, felony charges will apply, carrying the possibility of years in prison. Enhanced felony penalties also apply if a reckless driving accident results in permanent disability or disfigurement to somebody else, or if the victim of the accident was a child or a school crossing guard.

Will Reckless Driving Affect My Driving Record?

A reckless driving conviction in Illinois carries 55 points under the Secretary of State's point system. Points remain on your driving record for years, and accumulating many points will affect the length of a suspension if the Secretary of State decides to revoke your driving privileges. If you incur three traffic offense convictions—including reckless driving—within a 12-month period, the Secretary of State may summarily suspend your license.

This suspension can take effect without a formal hearing, leaving you unable to drive until you request and win reinstatement. Even after the period of suspension lifts, the underlying conviction stays on your record permanently, potentially increasing insurance premiums and jeopardizing your employment opportunities.

Defense Strategies for Reckless Driving Charges

Defending against a reckless driving charge requires a close examination of the events leading up to your arrest or citation. Our firm can go over possible defense strategies based on your unique case, pursuing a favorable outcome in court.

One key strategy is to challenge the legality of the traffic stop itself. Your attorney will examine whether the officer had reasonable suspicion to pull you over. If the stop lacked proper justification, any evidence gathered afterward, such as speed readings or observations of weaving, can be suppressed, severely weakening the prosecutor's case.

Another approach focuses on the accuracy of speed measurements or observations of your conduct. Technical flaws and errors in procedure can raise reasonable doubt about whether you were actually driving at a level of speed or recklessness required for conviction.

Finally, negotiating an alternative resolution can preserve your driving privileges. By presenting mitigating factors—such as a clean prior record, evidence of mechanical failure, or an emergency medical situation—we can negotiate for reduced charges or pursue a sentence of court supervision.

Meet With a Waukegan, Illinois Reckless Driving Defense Attorney

Have you been accused of reckless driving? If so, turn to Law Office of Theodore S. Potkonjak for help. Contact our Waukegan reckless driving lawyer or call our office at 847-263-1200 for a free consultation. We serve clients throughout Lake County, McHenry County, Cook County, and DuPage County.