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Can you get arrested for reckless driving?

If you get charged with reckless driving, do you get arrested or do you just get a ticket? I thought it was a pretty small charge but someone told me that it’s a felony so now I’m confused.

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Liz Jenson · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
You can and will be arrested for reckless driving in most states. Reckless driving is typically charged as a misdemeanor, but it can be charged as a felony in some states. That’s because the charge is not just an infraction.
Reckless driving is a very serious charge by itself, but it also tends to come with extenuating circumstances, including
driver intoxication
, harming another person, or damaging someone’s property. For this reason, reckless driving sentences can vary a lot in terms of their severity. However, the charge will frequently come with a prison sentence as well as a large fine—typically between $500 and $2,000 for the first offense.
Regardless of the circumstances, however, you’ll typically see an increase in your insurance rates after a reckless driving conviction. Luckily, the
Jerry
app makes it easy to find the best rates available, all without sacrificing the coverage you need. They’ll even help you switch policies with no long forms or phone calls needed. Download the app to get started.
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