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Is speeding considered reckless driving?
One of my friends was charged with reckless driving about a week ago, but he swears that he wasn’t doing anything unsafe other than going about 15 mph over the speed limit. So out of curiosity, is speeding considered reckless driving?
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Reckless driving is a difficult charge to define because it’s often up to the opinion and judgment of the officer. While
speeding
could be considered reckless driving, it’s usually only if you’re going more than 15 mph over the speed limit. Since your friend was going 15 mph over the speed limit, the office may have deemed this as reckless behavior.However, in other states, speeding at 15 mph over the posted speed limit may not be considered reckless driving. Again, it’s up to the officer to decide.
That said, most states have the same or similar phrasing to define reckless driving. It’s usually defined as willful or wanton disregard to other motorists or personal property. If your friend was drag racing, speeding, or simply not paying attention, all of it might be considered reckless driving. In all cases, reckless driving is a misdemeanor which goes on your record, rather than a speeding ticket, which doesn’t.
Since your friend received a reckless driving charge, he’s likely to see some added points on his license and an increase in his car insurance rates. Try recommending that he shop around for his next policy with the
Jerry
app.As a licensed broker, Jerry helps you find and compare quotes from over 50 top providers in minutes. When you find a better rate, Jerry can help you buy your new coverage and even cancel your old policy!
MORE: How long does a speeding ticket stay on your record?
View full answer
- Gregory R.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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