Houston Reckless Driving Attorney

Houston Reckless Driving Attorney

Reckless Driving Defense in Houston

A reckless driving conviction can result in fines, jail time, and a loss of your driving privileges. If you’ve been arrested on suspicion of reckless driving, it is worth speaking to an experienced Houston reckless driving attorney who is familiar with handling these types of cases. 

Your lawyer can investigate your case and provide you with all of your legal options. We can also represent you in court should you choose to fight your charges.


To schedule a free case evaluation with our criminal defense attorneys in Houston, contact Benavides Law Firm today at (713) 955-7344.


What Is Considered Reckless Driving in Texas?

Houston Reckless Driving Defense Attorney

Reckless driving is a term that at first glance might seem ambiguous but carries severe criminal penalties under Texas law. According to Texas Transportation Code § 545.401, a person is considered to be driving recklessly when operating a vehicle with “willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” This could include actions such as:

  • Excessive speeding
  • Weaving between lanes
  • Running stop signs or red lights
  • Intentionally failing to yield

So, what do you do when you face such a charge in Houston? Pay the fine and accept the consequences? This approach would not only be oversimplified, but it might also be damaging. In many cases, accepting the charge results in a criminal record, severe fines, raised insurance premiums, and potential license suspension or even incarceration.

This is why legal representation in such cases is critical. A skilled Reckless Driving Defense Attorney from Benavides Law Firm can assist you in understanding the true gravity of the charge and mount a credible defense on your behalf. Our attorneys will thoroughly dissect all elements of your case — from the traffic stop’s circumstances to the evidence presented against you.

Recognize that a reckless driving charge is more than just a traffic ticket. It’s a serious accusation that warrants vigilant legal defense. Let Benavides Law Firm represent your legal rights and defend you effectively against a Houston reckless driving charge.

Reckless Driving Penalties

The way traffic citations can be charged can be complicated, and seemingly simple circumstances can result in serious penalties and long-term consequences. If convicted, this misdemeanor can result in a fine of up to $200, imprisonment for up to 30 days, or both. 

However, the repercussions do not end there. A reckless driving conviction can stay on your driving record, leading to an increase in auto insurance premiums. It can lead to suspension of your driving privileges, especially if it’s a repeat violation.

Reckless driving charges are complicated, and it would be a mistake to assume that accepting the ticket and the fine is always your best option. A reckless driving conviction leaves a mark on your driving record—something that can affect your insurance rates and even your ability to qualify for certain kinds of employment. Additionally, if you have other convictions on your record, you may be facing a more complicated legal situation than a simple reckless driving arrest.

The Role of a Reckless Driving Defense Attorney

A competent reckless driving defense attorney brings much more to your case than just a badge of representation. They are committed to protecting your legal rights, lessening the potential ramifications of a reckless driving charge, and potentially changing the outcome of your case.

Initial Review and Investigation

At Benavides Law Firm, our proficient and experienced attorneys start by conducting a meticulous review of your case. This involves scrutinizing every detail related to your charge, including the evidence compiled, police reports, witness statements, and the conditions during the alleged violation. This step is essential in spotting any inconsistencies or inaccuracies that may be advantageous in your defense.

Building a Robust Defense Strategy

After gathering and analyzing all necessary information, our attorneys set forth to create a comprehensive defense strategy. This includes challenging the prosecutor’s interpretation of ‘reckless’ as defined by Texas law, questioning the validity of evidence or the legality of the traffic stop, and considering any extenuating circumstances. Our ultimate goal is to bring forth the most compelling defense possible, contesting the charges you face. At Benavides Law Firm, we strive to safeguard your driving privileges and strive to maintain your clean driving record.

Challenging a Reckless Driving Charge

Once a solid defense strategy has been formulated, the next step involves challenging the reckless driving charge in court. This is where in-depth legal knowledge, professional expertise, and refined courtroom skills come into play, and our attorneys at Benavides Law Firm hold each of these attributes in high regard.

Assessment of the Stop and Arrest Procedure

We aim to examine whether the law enforcement officer who made the traffic stop and filed the charge adhered strictly to the correct procedure. Any disparities or irregularities in this aspect, such as a lack of probable cause for the stop, can be used to argue for the dismissal or reduction of charges.

Evaluating and Challenging Evidence

Our attorneys also critically assess the evidence that is to be used against you, determining its validity and admissibility. This might involve questioning the accuracy of speed-measuring devices, the reliability of witness testimonies, or the clarity and credibility of video footage, among others.

Potential Outcomes and Sentencing Alternatives

While our ultimate aim at Benavides Law Firm is to secure a dismissal or a not guilty verdict for your case, it is important to consider all potential outcomes, including various sentencing alternatives, should the case proceed otherwise.

Case Dismissals, Plea Bargains, and Not Guilty Verdicts

Through a comprehensive and robust defense approach, our attorneys zealously work towards obtaining outcomes such as case dismissals and not-guilty verdicts.

In scenarios where a conviction seems more likely, we might consider negotiations for plea bargains to reduce the charge to a lesser offense or advocate for alternative sentencing options such as probation or traffic school over jail time and heavy fines.

At Benavides Law Firm, we remain committed to providing the strongest defense and delivering the best possible outcome for your case, taking into consideration the unique nuances of your situation.

Do I Need a Reckless Driving Defense Lawyer?

Attorney Kelly Benavides
Houston Reckless Driving Attorney, Kelly Benavides

 

Attorney Kelly Benavides has more than 20 years of experience handling traffic ticket cases in Texas and is a proud member of the Houston community. At Benavides Law Firm, we believe in providing clients with aggressive legal representation that considers both your case at hand and your future.

Founded on the tenets of integrity and honesty, we work hard for our clients, and we know how important it is that your driving privileges are protected. If you are looking for a Houston reckless driving ticket defense attorney, call us today to learn about your legal options.


To speak with a Houston traffic ticket lawyer who can help you fight your ticket in court, contact Benavides Law Firm today at (713) 955-7344. Se habla español.


Benavides Law Firm – Houston Office

533 Studewood St
Houston, TX 77007
P: (713) 226-7889