How to Fight a Reckless Driving Ticket in Hawaii
If you got a reckless driving ticket in Hawaii, you can usually pay it, contest it in court, or pursue a dismissal/mitigation option. HRS § 291-2 — Reckless driving of vehicle.
How to fight a reckless driving ticket in Hawaii, step by step
Decide how to plead
Yes. Reckless driving under HRS § 291-2 is a petty misdemeanor.
Check Hawaii's dismissal & mitigation options
Do NOT plead guilty without consulting a licensed Hawaii criminal defense attorney. Reckless driving is a petty misdemeanor — it creates a criminal record, possible jail time, and dramatically higher insurance rates.
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
HRS § 291-2 — Reckless driving of vehicle.
Show up prepared
Do NOT plead guilty without consulting a licensed Hawaii criminal defense attorney. Arrive early, dress neatly, and bring your documents plus a short, factual statement of your side.
Prepare for your Hawaii court date — free
Get a guided prep chat for your exact violation, then a court-ready mock script you can rehearse.
Start my free court prep →Hawaii Reckless Driving ticket — frequently asked questions
What is the statute for reckless driving in Hawaii?
HRS § 291-2 — Reckless driving of vehicle. Any person who drives any vehicle recklessly, in disregard of the safety of persons or property, is guilty of reckless driving. Reckless driving is a petty misdemeanor in Hawaii. A petty misdemeanor conviction creates a criminal record and carries fines up to $1,000 and up to 30 days in jail for a first offense.
Is reckless driving a criminal offense in Hawaii?
Yes. Reckless driving under HRS § 291-2 is a petty misdemeanor. Penalties: first offense = up to $1,000 fine and/or up to 30 days in jail; second or subsequent offense = more severe penalties. A conviction creates a criminal record, not just a traffic record. Do NOT plead guilty without consulting a licensed Hawaii criminal defense attorney.
What should I do if cited for reckless driving in Hawaii?
Do NOT plead guilty without consulting a licensed Hawaii criminal defense attorney. Reckless driving is a petty misdemeanor — it creates a criminal record, possible jail time, and dramatically higher insurance rates. An attorney can challenge whether the conduct meets the recklessness standard, negotiate a reduction to a lesser traffic offense, or seek a deferred acceptance of no contest (DANC) plea if available from the court.
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.