Caught speeding and going past a red light? In the blink of an eye, you come face to face with a patrol officer who, to your horror, cites reckless driving as your offense. You certainly look far from dangerous and out of control. The serious-sounding offense, it turns out, was brought on by a pedestrian who lost balance and sustained injuries when hit while you were cruising at high speed. On top of that, you actually went past a construction zone. You find yourself entrapped in a classic case of Murphy's Law.
As with other laws governing drunk driving (DUI or DWI) or speeding, major offenses like reckless driving are not taken lightly by law enforcers. The vigilance is believed to deter dangerous driving and rising statistics of fatalities. Reckless driving connotes a "willful" disregard for other people's safety. The perennial phrase, I didn't notice does not cut it anymore. So the next thing you know, you are up against a substantial fine and jail sentence, not to mention a misdemeanor criminal record. Constitutional rules apply so it must be proven beyond reasonable doubt that you actually showed a wanton disregard for another person's safety and well-being while driving.
You frantically think of ways to disentangle yourself from your predicament and decide that you really just have to admit guilt to your less serious offense, which was speeding. In the meantime, your driver's license is revoked, and you still need to get things over with the police officer who has issued a ticket containing what you have been accused of violating, and you are now being asked to sign an affidavit whereby you must agree to appear in court at a pre-determined date and time.
The next thing you know, you are wondering what to expect in traffic court. Once you arrive in court, you can check the posted calendar where matters to be taken up are listed. There is really no choice but to wait around a few minutes until the judge arrives. You will then be hearing an explanation of court procedures along with your rights and possible penalties. Court proceedings are recorded. The name of the game is patience. In case your name is not called, all you to do is notify the court officer immediately.
Expect some of the cases lined up to be deliberated on quickly or even postponed. If you proceed without a lawyer and plead not guilty and all involved parties are present and prepared, the case will proceed to trial. Once the judge has heard the testimony, he will decide if you (as defendant) are guilty or not guilty. Or the case may be dismissed. If found guilty of a minor offense, you will be issued a sentence and required to pay the fine and court costs and will be ordered to attend a traffic safety seminar/school and be subjected to court supervision.
Author Resource:-
Corey Palmer is a traffic law specialist who teaches others the importance of knowing your rights on the road and how to fight a speeding ticket.
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