Reckless driving is a serious traffic violation in Horry County.
Reckless driving charges can lead to heavy fines, points on your license, increased insurance costs, and even jail time. If you’ve been charged with reckless driving, you need to take it seriously. At Chambers Law, we fight aggressively to protect your driving record and your future.
Call 843-449-0420 today for a free consultation.
What Is Reckless Driving in Myrtle Beach?
South Carolina law (S.C. Code § 56-5-2920) defines reckless driving as operating a vehicle in a manner that demonstrates a “willful or wanton disregard” for the safety of others. This broad definition allows law enforcement to issue reckless driving citations for a variety of behaviors, including:
- Excessive speeding (25+ mph over the speed limit)
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Running red lights or stop signs aggressively
- Engaging in street racing
- Driving too fast for road conditions
- Passing illegally or forcing other vehicles off the road
Penalties for Reckless Driving in South Carolina
Reckless driving carries harsh penalties, even for first-time offenders. A conviction may result in:
- Fines up to $445
- Six points added to your driving record
- License suspension if you accumulate 12 points
- Potential jail time of up to 30 days
- Increased insurance rates or policy cancellation
A second reckless driving conviction within five years results in an automatic license suspension for three months.
How the South Carolina Point System Works
South Carolina assigns penalty points for traffic violations. Reckless driving is a six-point offense, meaning:
- Six points – One reckless driving conviction can put you halfway to license suspension
- 12 or more points – Automatic driver’s license suspension
Points are reduced by half after one year, but accumulating new points can quickly lead to another suspension.
Common Defenses Against Reckless Driving Charges
At Chambers Law, we build strong defenses for reckless driving charges, including:
- Lack of Evidence: If the officer did not use radar or provide clear evidence of reckless behavior, the charge may be challenged.
- Speeding vs. Reckless Driving: Speeding alone is not always reckless driving—an officer must prove you were endangering others.
- Necessity: If you were speeding or making aggressive maneuvers to avoid a dangerous situation, this could serve as a legal defense.
- Officer Misinterpretation: Reckless driving is often a subjective charge, meaning we can challenge how the officer viewed your driving behavior.
Why You Should Fight a Reckless Driving Charge
A reckless driving conviction can impact your ability to drive, raise your insurance rates, and even result in jail time. Fighting your charge may help you:
- Reduce or eliminate points on your record
- Prevent license suspension
- Avoid jail time and expensive fines
- Protect your insurance premiums
- Challenge the officer’s interpretation of reckless driving
How Chambers Law Can Help
At Chambers Law, we take an aggressive approach to defending clients against reckless driving charges. Our firm:
- Analyzes officer reports, dashcam footage, and witness statements
- Challenges unclear evidence and officer testimony
- Negotiates with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges
- Represents clients in court to fight for the best possible outcome
