How to Fight a Reckless Driving Ticket in Arkansas
If you got a reckless driving ticket in Arkansas, you can usually pay it, contest it in court, or pursue a dismissal/mitigation option. First offense (no injury): 5–90 days in jail AND/OR $25–$500 fine; 8 demerit points.
How to fight a reckless driving ticket in Arkansas, step by step
Decide how to plead
Do NOT pay the fine or plead guilty without consulting a licensed Arkansas criminal defense attorney. Reckless driving is a Class B misdemeanor.
Check Arkansas's dismissal & mitigation options
Potentially — for a first offense with no injury, some Arkansas courts may place the case under advisement or accept a plea in abeyance, which can result in dismissal upon meeting conditions (no new offenses, community service, defensive driving course). This is court-specific and not guaranteed.
Request the evidence in your case
Ask the court for the officer's notes and any photos, device records, or calibration logs relied on to issue your reckless driving citation — you have a right to review what the case against you is built on.
Know exactly what you're contesting
First offense (no injury): 5–90 days in jail AND/OR $25–$500 fine; 8 demerit points.
Show up prepared
Potentially — for a first offense with no injury, some Arkansas courts may place the case under advisement or accept a plea in abeyance, which can result in dismissal upon meeting conditions (no new offenses, community service, defensive driving course). Arrive early, dress neatly, and bring your documents plus a short, factual statement of your side.
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Start my free court prep →Arkansas Reckless Driving ticket — frequently asked questions
What is the statute for reckless driving in Arkansas?
ACA § 27-50-308 — Reckless Driving. A person is guilty of reckless driving who operates a vehicle 'in such a manner as to indicate a wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.' The key element is 'wanton disregard' — the driver understood the risk to others and chose to proceed anyway. This is a Class B misdemeanor.
Is reckless driving a criminal offense in Arkansas?
Yes. Reckless driving under ACA § 27-50-308 is a Class B misdemeanor — a criminal offense. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record (not just a traffic record), carries 8 demerit points (putting a driver at or near the 14-point suspension threshold in a single incident), and has significant insurance consequences. A third reckless driving conviction within 12 months results in license revocation.
What are the penalties for reckless driving in Arkansas?
First offense (no injury): 5–90 days in jail AND/OR $25–$500 fine; 8 demerit points. First offense (with physical injury to another person): 30–90 days in jail AND/OR $100–$1,000 fine. Second or subsequent offense within 3 years: 30 days–6 months in jail AND/OR $500–$1,000 fine. Third conviction within 12 months: mandatory license revocation. All reckless driving convictions: 8 demerit points (14+ points in 3 years = possible license suspension).
What is the difference between reckless driving and careless driving in Arkansas?
Arkansas recognizes both offenses separately. Reckless driving (ACA § 27-50-308) requires 'wanton disregard' — a conscious, deliberate choice to ignore a known risk to others. Careless driving (ACA § 27-50-307) is a lesser standard: operating a vehicle 'without due care' or in a manner that endangers others — negligence rather than intentional disregard. Careless driving carries a lower fine (up to $500) and typically fewer or no points than reckless driving. An attorney may be able to negotiate a reduction from reckless to careless driving, which significantly reduces consequences.
Is a deferred sentence or diversion available for reckless driving in Arkansas?
Potentially — for a first offense with no injury, some Arkansas courts may place the case under advisement or accept a plea in abeyance, which can result in dismissal upon meeting conditions (no new offenses, community service, defensive driving course). This is court-specific and not guaranteed. An attorney is strongly recommended for any reckless driving charge. The court's willingness depends on the specific facts, the judge, and the county.
What should I do if cited for reckless driving in Arkansas?
Do NOT pay the fine or plead guilty without consulting a licensed Arkansas criminal defense attorney. Reckless driving is a Class B misdemeanor. An attorney can: negotiate reduction to careless driving (a lesser non-criminal or lower-penalty offense), seek a deferred sentence or under-advisement dismissal, or challenge the 'wanton disregard' element. Without an attorney, you risk a permanent criminal record, 8 demerit points, possible jail, and dramatically higher insurance rates.
Zigpon is an educational self-help guide, not a law firm — this is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different; verify details with your court or a licensed attorney before acting.