Understanding SC Reckless Driving Citations

Flashing lights in the rear view mirror is the last sight that many people want to see, but it can be even more stressful if you have no idea why you are being pulled over. Many drivers who are given a traffic ticket for reckless driving in South Carolina were unaware that their behavior was a  problem.  A reckless driving ticket is a serious criminal offense in this state and can also have severe repercussions for out-of-state drivers. One of the best ways to avoid this issue is to make sure you understand exactly what an officer can pull you over for.

Vehicle Maneuvers 

Passing at improper places, such as in an intersection or railroad crossing, is not necessarily illegal, but can be ticketed if it is interpreted as unsafe by an officer. Passing when you do not have a clear view of what is ahead, such as on a hill or curve, can also be considered reckless driving. Most people try to avoid these practices to reduce their chances of getting a ticket, but it is technically not illegal.  Another form of reckless driving that is illegal is failing to wait for a loading or unloading school bus. Buses usually have flashing lights or signs to alert drivers that children are getting off or on, but even if a bus is not equipped with warning signals, you could still be ticketed if you pass at this time.

Exceeding Passenger Limits

While it may be tempting to cram extra people in if you do not have enough seat belts and are only going a short way, doing so can lead to hefty fines and punishments for reckless driving. This applies to all passengers, even if they are adults and responsible for their own actions.

Speeding

In high speed cases, you could be hit twice with a citation for speeding and reckless driving. Additionally, you can also be ticketed for reckless driving, even if you are staying under the speed limit, if you are driving too fast for the current conditions. In order to keep everyone on the road safe during situations like freezing rain or snow storms, an officer can issue tickets to drivers who are not traveling carefully.

Neglecting Signals

It may be easy to forget to use your turn signal, but doing so can lead to a ticket. Even if you use it right before turning, you can still be ticketed for not turning it on soon enough.  Reckless driving is often left up to the interpretation of the police officer. Understanding what can lead to a ticket, even if it is not technically illegal, can prevent traffic citations in South Carolina.

While reckless driving is a serious matter, the subjective nature of the offense also means that if you have been charged with reckless driving, an experienced SC defense attorney may be able to get your penalties removed or reduced.  Call our law firm today for a free consultation on your SC reckless driving citation.