Is reckless driving a criminal offense in Wisconsin?

Yes. Reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor in Wisconsin [§ 346.62; 346.65], not just a traffic infraction. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that appears on background checks.

What are the penalties for reckless driving in Wisconsin?

Penalties include confirm the classification and current penalties with a lawyer [§ 346.62; 346.65]. Additionally, significant points are added to your driving record, and insurance rates increase dramatically.

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 [§ 343.315]. CDL holders governed by 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 Wisconsin — Criminal Charges & Penalties

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

Reckless driving is a serious traffic offense in Wisconsin. Driving in a manner that creates a significant risk of great bodily harm or death to another person or their property §346.62; §346.65.

Classification and Penalties

Reckless driving in Wisconsin is classified as a First offense: civil forfeiture of $50-$400 under §346.65, no jail; 2nd or subsequent violation: up to 1 year jail and $100-$1,000 fine; causing great bodily harm by negligent operation (§ 346.62(4)) is a felony-level offense — confirm the classification and current penalties with a lawyer §346.62; §346.65.

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
Reckless Driving	First offense: civil forfeiture of $50-$400 under §346.65, no jail; 2nd or subsequent violation: up to 1 year jail and $100-$1,000 fine; causing great bodily harm by negligent operation (§ 346.62(4)) is a felony-level offense §346.62; §346.65	confirm the classification and current penalties with a lawyer

Impact on Your Record

A reckless driving conviction can:

Add significant points to your driving record

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 §343.315

⚠Reckless driving is a criminal offense in Wisconsin, 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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