The movie sequels ‘Fast and Furious’ has been one of the most-watched movies of the last two decades. It depicts what life looks like on the fast lane behind the wheels and what it means to be street smart. Perhaps this is true. However, in reality, driving like that will pitch you firmly against the law apart from endangering lives and property. This is why many states frown against rash driving and there are severe penalties for violating the state codes.
What is Rash Driving?
Rash driving by United States Law is defined as a major moving traffic violation that involves driving in a way that puts others at risk or operating a car in a way that shows an indifference to the safety of lives and properties. Some examples include excessive speeding, street racing, passing on blind curves, overrunning traffic signs, overtaking school buses that have their stop signs down, etc. According to Oregon State law, it is a class A misdemeanour. However, it can also be termed as a felony. It is classified as a felony when it involves or results in human fatalities and injuries.
Rash Driving and Negotiating a DUI Plea Bargain
In the pecking order, driving under influence is considered a more grave offense than rash driving. As such, with a trusted DUI attorney in Portland, Oregon, you can have your DUI charge reduced to a lesser charge by making a plea bargain. Often, because rash driving is a more general offense and attracts lighter consequences compared to DUI, it’s usually the result of DUI plea bargains.
Although a general offense, in some cases, rash driving can also attract some grave consequences. Some of these are discussed below:
1. Exorbitant fine
To serve as a detriment and discourage people from driving this way, anyone arrested and found guilty of driving rashly can expect a hefty fine that may amount up to a thousand dollars and more depending on the severity of the infraction.
2. High insurance rate
Drivers found guilty of driving recklessly may have to pay very high insurance rates which is quite understandable. In some states, when you are convicted of a moving violation, you will receive several demerit points each corresponding to a percentage increase in insurance premium. In some others, the insurance companies determine directly the premium increase using their own point system. If you are in an injury due to a car accident don’t hesitate to hire yourself a professional personal injury lawyer. They will not only take care of your legal matter but guide you in right direction
3. License suspension or revoking
Initially, all that may happen is that you will accumulate negative points for every traffic violation or infraction. However, if you continue this way, and end up with a criminal conviction, your license may be suspended temporarily or revoked permanently making it illegal for you to drive in the state. A suspended license can take months to years to get back and this can be difficult if you need to drive your car to move around for work and business.
4. Jail time
Rash driving is a criminal offense and it is punishable by jail time of between 90 days to a year in prison. When you are constantly guilty of driving recklessly, you will be charged to court and there is a good chance you will earn some jail time. This will affect not just the person, but also his family and loved ones, particularly if they depend on him.
Bottom line
Safety first.
Don’t drive rashly when you can do otherwise. And if you have already and have been charged to court, it is best to hire for yourself an attorney or lawyer that works in this field and is familiar with the laws of the state to handle the whole situation professionally for you.
