How to Fight a Reckless Driving Ticket in Indiana
If you got a reckless driving ticket in Indiana, you can usually pay it, contest it in court, or pursue a dismissal/mitigation option. Penalties under IC 35-50-3 by classification: Class C misdemeanor — up to 60 days jail + up to $500 fine; Class B misdemeanor (property damage) — up to 180 days jail + up to $1,000 fine; Class A misdemeanor (bodily injury) — up to 1 year jail + up to $5,000 fine.
How to fight a reckless driving ticket in Indiana, step by step
Decide how to plead
Pleading not guilty preserves your right to contest the reckless driving charge in Indiana and review the evidence against you.
Check Indiana's dismissal & mitigation options
Because reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor, negotiations with the prosecutor may result in a reduction to a civil infraction such as unsafe driving or a lesser traffic violation. Outcomes depend on the facts, your driving history, and the prosecutor's discretion.
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
Indiana BMV point values for reckless driving: standard reckless driving = 6 points; with property damage = 8 points; with bodily injury = 10 points; in a work zone = 8 points.
Show up prepared
Arrive early, dress neatly, and bring your documents plus a short, factual statement of your side.
Prepare for your Indiana 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 →Indiana Reckless Driving ticket — frequently asked questions
What is reckless driving in Indiana?
Traffic infractions in Indiana are civil proceedings heard in the Superior Court or Circuit Court of the county where the violation occurred. You must respond by the date on your citation. Indiana uses a point system: points accumulate for 2 years from the conviction date. A warning letter is issued at 14 points; at 18 points you face a BMV hearing and possible suspension; at 20+ points your license is suspended. Indiana also has a prosecutor-run Infraction Deferral Program (IC 34-28-5-1) that, if completed successfully, prevents the violation from ever being reported to the BMV — no points, no insurance impact. For the most accurate information, refer to the Indiana Code at iga.in.gov or the Indiana BMV at in.gov/bmv.
Is reckless driving a criminal offense in Indiana?
Traffic infractions in Indiana are civil proceedings heard in the Superior Court or Circuit Court of the county where the violation occurred. You must respond by the date on your citation. Indiana uses a point system: points accumulate for 2 years from the conviction date. A warning letter is issued at 14 points; at 18 points you face a BMV hearing and possible suspension; at 20+ points your license is suspended. Indiana also has a prosecutor-run Infraction Deferral Program (IC 34-28-5-1) that, if completed successfully, prevents the violation from ever being reported to the BMV — no points, no insurance impact. For the most accurate information, refer to the Indiana Code at iga.in.gov or the Indiana BMV at in.gov/bmv.
What are the penalties for reckless driving in Indiana?
Penalties under IC 35-50-3 by classification: Class C misdemeanor — up to 60 days jail + up to $500 fine; Class B misdemeanor (property damage) — up to 180 days jail + up to $1,000 fine; Class A misdemeanor (bodily injury) — up to 1 year jail + up to $5,000 fine. In addition, if you have a prior reckless driving conviction under IC 9-21-8-52, the court may suspend your driving privileges for up to 1 year (IC 9-21-8-52(e)).
How many points is reckless driving in Indiana?
Indiana BMV point values for reckless driving: standard reckless driving = 6 points; with property damage = 8 points; with bodily injury = 10 points; in a work zone = 8 points. Points are active for 2 years from conviction. Source: in.gov/bmv.
Can reckless driving be reduced to a lesser charge in Indiana?
Because reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor, negotiations with the prosecutor may result in a reduction to a civil infraction such as unsafe driving or a lesser traffic violation. Outcomes depend on the facts, your driving history, and the prosecutor's discretion. This is a significant reason to consult an attorney.
Do I need a lawyer for reckless driving in Indiana?
Strongly recommended. Reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor in Indiana — not a traffic infraction. It carries potential jail time, a criminal record, high point values, and possible license suspension. Unlike civil infractions, the burden of proof is 'beyond a reasonable doubt.' An Indiana traffic or criminal defense attorney can advise on negotiation and defense options.
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.