Reckless Driving

Reckless Driving & Wet Reckless Charges in Florida

Under Florida Statute §316.192, reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle with willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. It’s a broadly applied charge that can stem from various driving behaviors, including high speeds, weaving, aggressive maneuvers, or even an impaired driving situation where the evidence for DUI may be weak.

Penalties for Reckless Driving

• First conviction: Up to 90 days in jail, a fine of $25–$500, or both

• Second or subsequent conviction: Up to 6 months in jail, a fine of $50–$1,000, or both

Wet Reckless: A DUI Reduction Option

In some DUI cases, the State Attorney may reduce the charge to alcohol-related reckless driving, also known as a “Wet Reckless.” This often happens when the evidence for DUI is weak but prosecutors still want a conviction.

Getting a Wet Reckless instead of a DUI usually requires:

1. No prior criminal history

2. Cooperation with law enforcement

3. No refusal of breath, urine, or blood testing

4. BAC under .15

These criteria don’t guarantee a reckless offer—prosecutors still weigh the facts, weaknesses in their case, and the skill of your defense attorney. In Seminole County, where Pre-Trial Diversion is not offered for first-time DUI (unlike in Orange County), a Wet Reckless might be the only way to avoid a DUI conviction.

Consequences of a Wet Reckless

If alcohol contributed to the reckless driving, the court may require:

• DUI School and substance abuse evaluation

• Probation

• Community service

• Victim Awareness Panel

• Restrictions on alcohol consumption with random testing

• Possible license suspension or restriction

• Increased insurance rates or policy cancellation

Many of the penalties mirror those of a DUI, so it’s not a “free pass.” However, the long-term consequences of a reckless driving conviction are significantly less damaging than a DUI.

Advantages of a Reckless Driving Plea

• Avoids DUI stigma on your record, which can impact employment or professional licensing

• Not enhanceable like a DUI, meaning future DUIs won’t carry harsher penalties due to a reckless plea

• Insurance implications are often less severe—though this depends on your provider

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Why Legal Representation Matters

Successfully reducing a DUI to reckless driving often comes down to strong legal advocacy and familiarity with the local court system. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney can spot weaknesses in the State’s case, challenge the traffic stop or testing procedure, and negotiate a favorable outcome.

If you’re facing DUI or reckless driving charges in Sanford, Orlando, or anywhere in Central Florida, contact Attorney Ryan Yadav 24/7 for a free consultation. The sooner you act, the better your chance of protecting your rights and future.