Is reckless driving a criminal offense in North Carolina?

Yes. Reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor in North Carolina [§ 20-140], not just a traffic infraction. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that appears on background checks.

Can reckless driving be reduced to a lesser charge?

In many cases, yes. An experienced traffic attorney can often negotiate a reduction to a lesser charge such as improper driving or speeding, which carries fewer points and is not a criminal offense.

How does reckless driving affect my CDL?

A reckless driving conviction is classified as a serious violation for CDL holders [§ 20-37.12]. CDL holders subject to federal and state rules: two serious violations within 3 years result in a 60-day CDL disqualification [§ 49 C.F.R. 383.51].

Topic guideUpdated 2026-02-27

Reckless Driving in North Carolina — Criminal Charges & Penalties

Q: What are the penalties for reckless driving in North Carolina?

Penalties include up to 60 days jail, fine at judge's discretion; Class 1 misdemeanor if the reckless driving causes serious injury; Class A1 misdemeanor if it causes serious bodily injury [§ 20-140]. Additionally, significant points are added to your driving record, and insurance rates increase dramatically.

What constitutes reckless driving in North Carolina, penalties, impact on your record, and CDL consequences.

Reckless driving is a serious traffic offense in North Carolina. Driving carelessly and heedlessly in willful or wanton disregard of rights or safety of others §20-140.

Classification and Penalties

Reckless driving in North Carolina is classified as a Class 2 misdemeanor — up to 60 days jail, fine at judge's discretion; Class 1 misdemeanor if the reckless driving causes serious injury; Class A1 misdemeanor if it causes serious bodily injury §20-140.

What Constitutes Reckless Driving

Common behaviors that can lead to a reckless driving charge:

Excessive speeding (significantly over the posted limit)

Weaving in and out of traffic at high speed

Racing on public roads

Passing on curves or hills with limited visibility

Ignoring traffic signals or signs in a dangerous manner

Road rage or aggressive driving behavior

Reckless Driving vs. Other Charges

	Classification	Typical Penalty
Speeding	Infraction/Minor	Fine + Points vary §20-16
Reckless Driving	Class 2 misdemeanor §20-140	up to 60 days jail, fine at judge's discretion; Class 1 misdemeanor if the reckless driving causes serious injury; Class A1 misdemeanor if it causes serious bodily injury

Impact on Your Record

A reckless driving conviction can:

Add significant points to your driving record §20-16

Result in license suspension or revocation

Dramatically increase insurance rates (often 50-100%+)

Appear on background checks as a criminal conviction

Affect employment, especially for commercial drivers

Disqualify CDL holders from commercial driving §20-37.12

⚠Reckless driving is a criminal offense in North Carolina, not just a traffic infraction. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Consult an attorney before pleading guilty.

Prepare for Your Consultation

Quick checklist (Traffic Violations)

Gather these before your first consultation.

Traffic citation copy

(date, location, violation code)

Driving record / MVR

(point history, prior violations)

Insurance and registration

(proof of coverage, vehicle reg.)

General preparation tips only. Specific needs depend on your state and violation type.

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