Last Modified on Oct 06, 2026
Navigating a reckless driving case can be difficult, especially if the offense resulted in serious injuries or other losses. It’s recommended that you hire an attorney to help you understand Louisiana reckless driving charges based on the facts of your case.
Louisiana’s laws exist to protect people on the road. Unsafe driving is taken seriously, which can make defending against reckless driving charges difficult. It’s imperative that you understand Louisiana reckless driving laws for yourself. These offenses can result in serious consequences that can impact the rest of your life.
Every case is different, and your own criminal history can affect your case. If you’re facing a reckless driving case, be sure to take time to understand your legal situation with the help of a legal professional.
Louisiana Reckless Driving Charges
Reckless driving is not going to result in a simple traffic ticket in Louisiana. It’s considered a criminal misdemeanor under Louisiana law. The charge is officially known as reckless operation of a vehicle. A first offense can lead to fines up to $200 and imprisonment for up to 90 days. Consequences can become more serious from there.
It’s important to note that there is a difference between careless driving and reckless driving under Louisiana law. Careless driving, or careless operation, is a traffic violation, not a criminal offense.
It can lead to fines, license suspension, and points on your driving record. In the event the careless operation causes the death of another person, you can expect to lose your license for a period of two years.
Examples of careless driving include swerving in and out of traffic or not adjusting to road and weather conditions. The difference lies in intention. Reckless driving is often seen as willful disregard for traffic laws. Careless driving is considered to be more accidental.
Reckless driving is a criminal offense that is taken more seriously. It involves intentional or negligent actions portraying a blatant disregard for safety. Common examples of reckless driving can include:
- Aggressive maneuvering
- Distracted driving
- Excessive speeding
- Falling asleep at the wheel
- Ignoring traffic signals
- Illegal passing
- Operating a vehicle while impaired (OWI)
- Street racing
- Tailgating
A Louisiana reckless driving attorney can help you understand the level of charges you may face after a traffic incident. They can also advocate for you and help you secure a fair outcome for your case.
It is not recommended to defend yourself against criminal charges. The experience an attorney can provide to your case can be the difference between significant prison time and a less severe sentence.
FAQs
How Do I Defend Against Reckless Driving Charges in Louisiana?
To defend against reckless driving charges, it depends on the facts of the case. You must prove that your driving did not constitute criminal negligence or that the prosecution’s evidence against you is inaccurate.
You can also present evidence that demonstrates unexpected circumstances that explain the erratic behavior behind the wheel. If you can’t prove your innocence outright, your attorney may work to reduce your charges to a non-criminal violation.
Can I Avoid a License Suspension After Reckless Driving in Louisiana?
Yes, you can avoid a license suspension after reckless driving in Louisiana. In order to do so, it’s highly recommended that you hire a reckless driving lawyer who has experience defending against these types of charges.
One way to avoid losing your license is by defending your charges in court. If the prosecution is unable to prove criminal negligence, you may be able to get the charges dismissed. Your attorney may also negotiate a fair plea bargain before trial.
What Penalties Can I Face for Reckless Driving in Louisiana?
The penalties you can face for reckless driving in Louisiana may vary based on whether anyone was hurt. Penalties typically include fines, loss of license, and time in jail.
Furthermore, Louisiana established the Traumatic Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Trust Fund (TBSCI) in 1993. The fund imposes additional fees for reckless driving, operating a vehicle while impaired, and speeding. These additional fees go back into the program to help support victims of serious traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries.
Does a Reckless Operation Conviction Stay on Your Record in Louisiana?
A reckless operation conviction stays on your record in Louisiana. The length of time the charges remain depends on a number of different factors in your case.
A conviction remains on your criminal record forever unless you take the initiative to file for expungement. The offense also remains on your driving record for a specific period of time.
In order to have a reckless driving conviction expunged, you must make it through the waiting period without any felony convictions.
Hire a Reckless Driving Lawyer in Louisiana to Help With Your Defense
Facing reckless driving charges can be daunting. However, this is not something you must do by yourself.
Since 2017, the legal professionals at Longman Jakuback have been representing Louisianans as they go up against their charges. We understand how much is at stake in reckless driving cases, and we’re confident we can help you understand your legal options and get you through your case.
Whether you’re handling your case through the Baton Rouge City Court or the 19th Judicial District Court, you can count on our local Louisiana reckless driving attorneys to be there for you. Furthermore, we know how to handle the administrative side of these cases through the Louisiana OMV and the Division of Administrative Law.
Our boutique litigation firm is home to five Louisiana Super Lawyers, a designation awarded to very few legal professionals.* We’re also a part of organizations and initiatives such as:
- American Association for Justice
- Louisiana Association for Justice
- Fair Fight Initiative
Reach out to our office in Baton Rouge for information on how our attorneys can help with your case. You can find us in the Saltz Building along the Mississippi River. We’re conveniently located near I-10 and I-110 to reach our clients throughout East Baton Rouge Parish and beyond. Call us to schedule an initial consultation with a team member to get started today.
*Awards and recognition are not guarantees of future results. Selection criteria vary by organization.
