Reckless driving is not unheard of in Northern Colorado. Whether it’s speeding, street racing, tailgating, or aggressive maneuvers that endanger other drivers, reckless driving citations are quite common. If you’ve recently received a ticket for reckless driving, you have 20 days to pay the court or you may be required to attend a court hearing. Paying the ticket admits guilt or nolo contendere (no contest); to protect your innocence, you must plead not guilty during your court appearance. Self-representation in court is possible, but it is always advised to seek the guidance of a traffic attorney in Loveland.
In most reckless driving situations, the citation will state the fine amount, the due date, and the amount of points that may be taken from your license. If you know you deserved the ticket, going to court with a guilty plea or without contest can lead to a plea bargain including smaller fines and less points charged, as well as the possibility of receiving higher insurance rates.
If you feel you were unjustly cited, you may choose to contest any part of the citation by appearing in court and making your case. A lawyer can help collect evidence in your favor to prove innocence by challenging the ticket. If you are proved innocent, you will not pay fines or have the reckless driving charge on your record, but you will still have to pay court and attorney fees. If you are still charged as guilty, then you will have to pay the citation fee, court fee, and traffic lawyer fee.