New Jersey Reckless Driving Speed is a serious traffic offense under N.J. Stat. § 39:4-96. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has secured favorable outcomes for clients across New Jersey. A conviction can mean up to 60 days in jail and a $200 fine. Your driving record and freedom are at stake.
New Jersey Reckless Driving Speed — What Is Your Best Defense?
Last verified: April 2026 | New Jersey Superior Court | N.J. State Legislature
Under N.J. Stat. § 39:4-96, reckless driving is defined as operating a motor vehicle in a manner that unreasonably interferes with the free and proper use of the public highway, or endangers the safety of persons or property. This includes driving at a speed that is unreasonable given the traffic, weather, or road conditions. A conviction carries significant penalties, including potential jail time, fines, and license suspension. The statute is broad, allowing prosecutors to charge reckless driving for a wide range of behaviors beyond just excessive speed.
For the official text of the law, see N.J. Stat. § 39:4-96 (official New Jersey Legislature). For court procedures, visit the New Jersey Courts website.
- Step 1: Review the Complaint — Check the specific location, time, and alleged speed. Note any discrepancies.
- Step 2: Gather Evidence — Obtain the officer’s notes, dashcam footage, and any weather or traffic reports for the time of the stop.
- Step 3: Identify Defenses — Common defenses include: the speed was not unreasonable for conditions, the officer’s estimation was flawed, or the driving was not reckless.
- Step 4: Pre-Trial Motion — File a motion to suppress evidence if the stop was illegal or the radar/lidar device was not properly calibrated.
- Step 5: Negotiate a Plea — In some cases, a plea to a lesser charge like careless driving can avoid a reckless driving conviction.
- Step 6: Trial Preparation — If no plea is reached, prepare for trial. Subpoena the officer and any witnesses.
In New Jersey, reckless driving carries a penalty range of up to 60 days in jail and a $200 fine for a first offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reckless Driving (1st Offense) | Traffic Offense | Up to 60 days | $50 – $200 | Possible suspension | 2 points on driving record; insurance surcharges |
| Reckless Driving (2nd Offense) | Traffic Offense | Up to 3 months | $100 – $500 | Suspension up to 1 year | 5 points; possible jail time |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a firm-wide favorable outcome rate of 93%+ across all practice areas. In New Jersey traffic cases, the firm has achieved dismissals, reductions, and not-guilty verdicts for numerous clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Tinton Falls location is near the Monmouth County Courthouse, accessible via the Garden State Parkway. We serve clients across New Jersey, including Monmouth, Ocean, and Middlesex counties.
New Jersey Reckless Driving Speed lawyer near Tinton Falls.
What is the legal speed limit for reckless driving in New Jersey?
No. Reckless driving is not defined by a specific speed. It is based on driving that endangers safety, regardless of the posted limit.
Can I get jail time for a first reckless driving offense?
Yes. A first offense carries up to 60 days in jail, though it is not always imposed. The judge has discretion based on the facts.
Will a reckless driving conviction add points to my license?
Yes. A conviction adds 2 points to your driving record. A second offense adds 5 points, which can lead to a suspension.
Is it worth hiring a lawyer for a reckless driving ticket?
It depends. A lawyer can often negotiate a reduction to a lesser charge, avoiding jail time and a permanent criminal record.
What is the difference between reckless driving and careless driving in NJ?
Reckless driving requires a willful disregard for safety. Careless driving is a lesser charge for simple inattention. Reckless carries higher penalties.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.