Differences Between Reckless Driving and Speeding in OK

Differences Between Reckless Driving and Speeding in OK Image

Reckless driving and speeding in OK share several similarities, but there are important differences you should be aware of as well.

If you’re charged with speeding or reckless driving in OK, attorneys in Oklahoma City, like Burton Law Group, can help. In this reading, we explain the difference between speeding and reckless driving in Oklahoma.

Oklahoma Speeding Laws

According to Oklahoma speeding laws, there are two types of speeding. These are the basic speeding and absolute limit. Both types of speeding can result in fines and points on your license.

  • Basic Speeding Law – Oklahoma’s basic speeding law states that you shouldn’t drive faster than the current conditions allow. This supersedes the absolute speeding limit when driving conditions are poor.

The basic speeding law takes into consideration the traffic, width of the road, and the surface you’re driving on, as well as any other conditions that can affect your ability to drive safely. It also declares that you must not travel at a speed that will not allow you to stop in time.

For example, the speed limit on two-lane highways is typically 65 mph. However, if it’s raining heavily, 65 mph is considered an unsafe speed because your ability to stop and visibility is impacted by the rain.

  • Absolute Speed Limit – The absolute speed limit is the fastest you can travel on a given roadway or speed zone. The absolute speed limit depends on the type of road you’re traveling on, as well as a few other factors. The following are the absolute speed limits:
  • 75 mph on four-lane highways and interstates
  • 65 mph on two-lane highways
  • 55 mph on county roads
  • 45 mph on highways within a refuge or state park
  • 35 mph in wildlife refuges or state parks
  • 25 mph in school zones

Absolute speed limits are clearly posted. If you exceed these limits, you can be fined for speeding, even if the conditions are fair, and it can be considered safe to drive faster than the speed listed.

Reckless Driving in Oklahoma

Reckless driving is a more serious charge than speeding. It is defined by the state as “driving carelessly or wantonly and without regard for the safety of persons or property around you, or in violation of the basic or posted speed laws of the state.”

In some cases, reckless driving is very clear. In others, what constitutes reckless driving is up for interpretation by the local authorities, similar to the basic speed limit.

Careless or wanton driving means that you’re driving in a way that puts others in danger. Examples of careless driving include intoxication, running a stop light, and weaving in and out of lanes. Reckless driving acts that involve another vehicle include running a vehicle off the road or tailgating.

When Does Speeding Become Reckless Driving?

If you’re exceeding the speed limit by more than 20 mph, this is considered reckless driving. For instance, if you are speeding along at 90 mph in a 65 mph zone, this is definitely reckless driving.

Penalties

Speeding or reckless driving in OK can have serious consequences. In addition to fines, you may face jail time. You will also receive points on your license. An Oklahoma City car accident lawyer can help you get the best outcome for your case.

Speeding Penalties

If you get a speeding ticket in Oklahoma, fines range from $10 to $205, depending on your rate of speed. You may also receive up to 10 days in jail for your first ticket.

Most speeding violations will give you 2 to 4 Oklahoma speeding ticket points. If you receive 7 points, you must attend an Oklahoma Department of Public Safety hearing. If you accrue 10 points, you will lose your license for a period of time.

Reckless Driving Penalties

Reckless driving is a misdemeanor. The first conviction can result in 5 to 90 days of jail time, a fine of $100 to $500, or both.

Traffic Violation Representation With Burton Law Group

If you’re charged with speeding or reckless driving, you need someone who understands the law to represent you. Don’t risk the serious consequences of a conviction without adequate representation. Contact the Burton Law Group today.