Protecting Your License, Your Freedom, and Your Reputation

In Florida, Reckless Driving is more than “just a ticket.” It’s a criminal offense that can leave you with a permanent record, fines, possible jail time, and skyrocketing insurance rates. For professionals, executives, and anyone who values their reputation, a reckless driving conviction can have lasting consequences, both personally and professionally.

If you’ve been cited or arrested for reckless driving in Palm Beach County, including West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Boca Raton, and Wellington, you need an experienced defense attorney who knows how to protect your record and limit your exposure to penalties.

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Table of Contents

Florida’s Reckless Driving Law — §316.192, Florida Statutes

Under Fla. Stat. §316.192, a person commits reckless driving when they operate a motor vehicle:

“In willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.”

Common Examples of Reckless Driving in Palm Beach County

The law listed above has a subjective standard, meaning the officer’s interpretation of your driving behavior can make or break the case. Common examples include:

  • Excessive speeding combined with unsafe lane changes

  • Street racing or “drag racing” behavior (especially those that meet new "super speeder" standards)

  • Fleeing from police at high speeds

  • Running multiple red lights or stop signs

  • Aggressive maneuvers in heavy traffic

reckless driving Palm Beach County

Penalties for Reckless Driving in Florida

First Conviction:

  • Up to 90 days in jail

  • Up to $500 fine

  • 4 points on your driving record

  • Possible probation

Second or Subsequent Conviction:

  • Up to 6 months in jail

  • Up to $1,000 fine

If Reckless Driving Causes Damage or Injury:

  • Property damage → First-degree misdemeanor (up to 1 year in jail)

  • Serious bodily injury → Third-degree felony (up to 5 years in prison, $5,000 fine)

Reckless Driving as a DUI Alternative — “Wet Reckless”

In Florida, a “Wet Reckless” is not an official statute but rather a plea bargain where a DUI charge is reduced to reckless driving, often with alcohol-related conditions.

Why it matters:

  • No DUI conviction on your record

  • Avoid mandatory driver’s license suspension

  • Lower fines and penalties compared to DUI

  • Less stigma for background checks and professional licensing

A “Wet Reckless” plea may still include probation, alcohol education courses, or community service, but it’s generally far less damaging to your long-term future.   Understand more by checking out our webinar.

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Why Hire The Law Office of Matthew Konecky, P.A.?

  • Experience in Palm Beach County courts — We know the local prosecutors, judges, and diversion options.

  • Track record of DUI and reckless driving reductions — including “Wet Reckless” resolutions.

  • Client-focused defense — Privacy and discretion are top priorities for our professional and high-profile clients.

Related Practice Areas & Resources

Call Today — Protect Your Driving Record Before It’s Too Late

Reckless driving charges move quickly through the court system in Palm Beach County. The sooner you have a defense attorney involved, the better your chances to get charges reduced or dismissed.

📞 Call (561) 671-5995 or fill out our online contact form for a confidential case evaluation.