Reckless Driving in Orange County, FL
Florida law prohibits any person from driving a vehicle in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property under Section 318.18(3)(c), F.S.
Fleeing a law enforcement officer in a motor vehicle is an action that constitutes reckless driving, regardless of whether it is in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property under Section 316.192(1), F.S.
Any driver convicted of reckless driving may be punished as follows:
- First conviction: Imprisonment for a period of up to 90 days, a fine ranging from a minimum of $25 to a maximum of $500, or by both.
- Second or subsequent conviction: Imprisonment for a period of up to six months, a fine ranging from a minimum of $50 to a maximum of $1,000, or both.9
A conviction for reckless driving generally cannot be based on evidence of excessive speed alone. See Luzardo v. State, 147 So. 3d 1083, 1085 (Fla. 3d DCA 2014), Hamilton v. State, 439 So. 2d 238 (Fla. 2d DCA 1983). Some appellate courts in Florida have suggested “grossly excessive” speeding may alone be sufficient for a conviction. See e.g., Rubinger v. State, 98 So. 3d 659, 662 (Fla. 4th DCA 2012).
A conviction for reckless driving will typically be upheld where speed is coupled with other factors indicating a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of others. Those other factors might include: improper passing, ignoring traffic control devices, or impaired driving.
Attorney for Reckless Driving in Orange County, FL
Florida provides harsh criminal penalties for reckless driving. Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney for Orange County, FL, if you were charged with any criminal traffic offense. Other related charges might include DUI, racing or fleeing to elude.
During the initial consultation, we can explain the elements of the charge and any viable defenses to fight for an outright dismissal.
Let us put our experience to work for you.
Call 813-250-0500.
This article was last updated on Friday, January 23, 2026.