Seeing flashing lights in your rearview mirror is enough to make any driver’s heart sink. But when that traffic stop results in a reckless driving or speeding ticket in New Jersey, the situation becomes far more than an inconvenience. Suddenly, you’re looking at heavy fines, points on your license, higher insurance rates, and the possibility of losing your freedom.

At The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall, our New Jersey Traffic Ticket Attorneys have decades of collective experience defending drivers against these charges. We know firsthand how a reckless driving or speeding conviction can disrupt your life, and we are here to help you fight back.

What Constitutes Reckless Driving in New Jersey?

Reckless driving is far more severe than a standard moving violation. Under statute N.J.S.A. 39:4-96, it is defined as operating a vehicle “heedlessly, in willful or wanton disregard of the rights or safety of others, in a manner so as to endanger, or be likely to endanger, a person or property.”

Examples of behavior that may lead to a reckless driving charge include:

  • Driving 30+ mph over the speed limit
  • Aggressively weaving in and out of lanes
  • Tailgating dangerously
  • Running red lights or stop signs
  • Racing on public roads
  • Distracted driving that endangers others

Unlike a speeding ticket, which is based on clear measurements, a reckless driving charge often depends on an officer’s subjective opinion. That’s why you need a skilled Reckless Driving Attorney in New Jersey who can challenge the evidence and protect your rights.

The Severe Penalties for Reckless Driving Convictions

A reckless driving conviction in New Jersey can have long-lasting consequences.

For a first offense:

  • Up to 60 days in county jail
  • Fines between $50–$200 (plus court costs)
  • 5 motor vehicle points on your record
  • Potential driver’s license suspension

For a second offense:

  • Up to 90 days in jail
  • Fines up to $500
  • 5 motor vehicle points
  • Higher risk of license suspension

These penalties are designed to be a serious deterrent. The five points alone can trigger MVC surcharges and cause your insurance rates to skyrocket for years.

More Than Just a Fine: The Cost of Speeding Tickets in NJ

While speeding tickets may seem minor compared to reckless driving, they carry hidden costs that add up quickly.

Under N.J.S.A. 39:4-98, speeding points are:

  • 1–14 mph over limit: 2 points
  • 15–29 mph over limit: 4 points
  • 30+ mph over limit: 5 points

Additional risks include:

  • 6+ points in 3 years → annual MVC surcharges
  • 12+ points → automatic license suspension
  • Commercial drivers (CDL holders) face even greater consequences that may jeopardize their careers
  • Out-of-state drivers will see points transferred to their home state via the Driver License Compact

Even a single 4- or 5-point ticket can raise your insurance premiums for 3–5 years, costing thousands of dollars over time.

Why You Shouldn’t Face Traffic Charges Alone

Many drivers mistakenly believe they can simply pay the fine and move on. In reality, the New Jersey Municipal Court system is complex, and prosecutors are not there to help you. Their goal is to secure a conviction.

Hiring an experienced Traffic Ticket Lawyer in New Jersey from The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall levels the playing field.

The Strategic Advantages We Offer:

Former Prosecutors on Your Side – Our attorneys know how prosecutors build cases and where the weaknesses lie.

Extensive Court Experience – We appear in municipal courts across New Jersey daily and know the local judges, prosecutors, and procedures.

Defense Strategies That Work –

  • Seeking dismissal due to weak or faulty evidence
  • Negotiating downgrades to zero-point violations like Unsafe Operation (N.J.S.A. 39:4-97.2)
  • Challenging radar calibration, officer testimony, or lack of proper procedure

Protect Your License and Your Future

A reckless driving or speeding ticket in New Jersey is serious—but it is not a conviction. With the right legal defense, you can protect your license, avoid devastating insurance hikes, and safeguard your future.

At The Law Offices of Jonathan F. Marshall, our team of experienced New Jersey Traffic Ticket Attorneys—including former prosecutors with over 200 years of combined experience—stands among the leading Speeding Ticket Law Firms New Jersey drivers trust. We know how to challenge evidence, negotiate downgrades, and fight to keep your record clean.

Call us today for a free consultation. Don’t risk fines, points, or losing your license. Let our skilled defense team protect your driving record.

FAQs

1. Is reckless driving a criminal offense in New Jersey?

 No, reckless driving is a traffic offense, but its penalties (jail time, license suspension, high fines) make it almost as serious as a misdemeanor.

2. Can I avoid points on a speeding ticket in NJ?

 Yes, an attorney may be able to negotiate a downgrade to a zero-point violation such as Unsafe Operation.

3. Do I need to appear in court for a reckless driving or speeding ticket?

 In many cases, your attorney can appear in court on your behalf, saving you time and stress.

4. How many points before my license is suspended in NJ?

 Accumulating 12 or more points on your license will trigger an automatic suspension.