Is It Worth Hiring an Attorney for a First-Time Reckless Driving Charge?
Nov. 11, 2025
Getting charged with reckless driving for the first time can be both stressful and confusing. Many drivers feel shocked when they realize that reckless driving isn’t just a traffic ticket—it’s a criminal offense. It’s natural to wonder whether hiring a traffic law attorney is truly necessary or if handling the matter on your own will suffice.
At Michael Kuzma Attorney at Law, I educate clients about their rights, assess their options, and develop strong defense strategies tailored to their individual traffic law situations. Contact me to take control of your legal situation. I'm based in Buffalo, New York, and offer trusted guidance and representation for reckless driving charges throughout New York State.
What Makes Reckless Driving a Serious Offense
Reckless driving is defined as operating a motor vehicle in a manner that unreasonably interferes with the free and proper use of a public road or endangers others. It’s treated as a criminal misdemeanor rather than a simple infraction. This means a conviction carries more serious and long-lasting consequences than an ordinary speeding ticket.
Because reckless driving is classified as a crime, it can result in both criminal penalties and long-term effects on your record. A conviction may appear on background checks and potentially affect employment or insurance rates. Even for first-time offenders, courts take these cases seriously, emphasizing the need for careful legal attention.
Having legal representation for a first-time offense can make a major difference. Attorneys like me who are familiar with traffic law understand the nuances of how reckless driving is defined and prosecuted. I can identify opportunities to reduce or dismiss charges before lasting damage occurs.
Why Many Drivers Underestimate a First-Time Charge
Many people assume that a first-time reckless driving charge won’t have serious consequences. They may think it’s similar to a speeding ticket or believe that explaining themselves in court will resolve the issue. Unfortunately, this misunderstanding often leads to harsher outcomes than expected.
A reckless driving charge carries the potential for criminal penalties, including jail time and license suspension. Even if no one was injured, judges can still impose significant fines and other penalties. The legal process can also be intimidating, especially for those unfamiliar with traffic law and court procedures.
Legal Penalties for Reckless Driving in New York
The penalties for reckless driving can vary depending on the circumstances of the case. Even for a first-time offender, the consequences can extend beyond fines and court costs. Potential consequences for a first-time reckless driving conviction include:
Fines and surcharges: Drivers can face fines ranging from hundreds to over a thousand dollars, depending on the case.
Points on your license: A reckless driving conviction adds five points to your driving record, which can impact insurance rates.
License suspension: Judges can suspend your license for serious or repeated offenses.
Jail time: While rare for first-time offenders, some cases carry up to 30 days in jail.
Criminal record: Because reckless driving is a misdemeanor, it creates a permanent criminal record.
These penalties highlight why taking reckless driving seriously is essential. Even one conviction can lead to increased insurance costs and long-term legal consequences. Consulting with a lawyer experienced in traffic law helps you understand your risks and explore every available defense option.
The Long-Term Consequences of a Reckless Driving Conviction
Even after fines are paid and court dates are over, a reckless driving conviction can linger. Insurance companies often view such offenses as red flags, leading to higher premiums or policy cancellations. Employers who run background checks may also hesitate to hire someone with a criminal driving record.
These long-term effects can limit personal and professional opportunities. For some, it can even affect the ability to rent a vehicle or obtain certain professional licenses. The financial and reputational costs from a traffic law case against you can add up quickly and outweigh any short-term savings from going without an experienced attorney like me, Michael Kuzma.
The Risks of Handling a Reckless Driving Case Alone
Representing yourself in court may seem like a cost-saving decision, but it often leads to greater problems. Many drivers underestimate how strict New York’s traffic courts can be, especially when dealing with reckless driving charges. Without legal knowledge or experience, it’s easy to make mistakes that can harm your case.
For example, admitting guilt or making inconsistent statements in court can damage your credibility. Failing to properly file documents or meet deadlines can also lead to harsher penalties. Judges may be less inclined to show leniency if they believe the defendant doesn’t fully understand the gravity of the offense.
Having legal counsel from someone experienced in traffic law can help you avoid these pitfalls. That’s why I provide advice, representation, and negotiation skills that can lead to better outcomes—such as reduced charges or alternative sentencing. My goal is to protect your rights and minimize the long-term impact of a first-time charge.
How Plea Bargains Can Reduce Penalties
In some cases, a complete dismissal isn’t possible, but that doesn’t mean all is lost. Prosecutors may agree to reduce a reckless driving charge to a lesser offense, such as careless driving or speeding. This can dramatically reduce penalties and prevent a criminal record from being created. The benefits of plea bargains include:
Reduced penalties: Lesser charges usually mean lower fines and fewer license points.
Avoiding jail time: Many plea agreements eliminate the possibility of incarceration.
Protecting your record: A reduction to a non-criminal violation can help preserve your clean background.
Lower insurance impact: Fewer points and a less severe conviction often mean smaller premium increases.
Less stress: Negotiating a plea saves time and avoids the uncertainty of a full trial.
Plea bargains in traffic law cases depend on factors such as the strength of the evidence, the driver’s record, and the circumstances of the incident. I can assess your case and determine whether a plea is in your best interest. Sometimes, accepting a reduced charge is the smartest way to move forward.
When It’s Definitely Worth Hiring an Attorney
While every case is unique, there are certain situations where hiring an attorney is especially important. These cases often involve aggravating factors that could increase penalties or make prosecutors less willing to negotiate. Recognizing these warning signs early can make a major difference in the outcome. Scenarios where legal representation is strongly advised include:
Accidents involving injuries or property damage: These cases can lead to additional criminal or civil liability.
High-speed incidents: Driving far above the speed limit is often seen as intentional recklessness.
Repeat violations: If you’ve had prior tickets or warnings, courts may treat the charge more harshly.
Refusal to cooperate: Arguing with or resisting law enforcement can make the situation worse.
Commercial drivers: Those with CDLs risk losing their professional licenses and careers.
Each of these situations raises the stakes for the defendant. A knowledgeable attorney can provide representation that protects both your immediate and long-term interests. In traffic law, having a strategic defense can mean the difference between a minor penalty and a criminal record.
Hire the Right Attorney for Your Case
If you’re facing a first-time reckless driving charge in Buffalo, New York, or anywhere in New York State, don’t take chances with your future. Michael Kuzma Attorney at Law provides trusted representation to help clients address these serious charges with confidence. I understand how intimidating the process can be and work to guide clients every step of the way.
Reckless driving charges can have lasting consequences—even for first-time offenders. Don’t face the legal system alone. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights and your future.