How to Fight a Reckless Driving Ticket in Mississippi
If you got a reckless driving ticket in Mississippi, you can usually pay it, contest it in court, or pursue a dismissal/mitigation option. First conviction: fine of not less than $5 nor more than $100.
How to fight a reckless driving ticket in Mississippi, step by step
Decide how to plead
Do NOT pay the fine or plead guilty without consulting a licensed Mississippi criminal defense attorney. Reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor.
Check Mississippi's dismissal & mitigation options
Do NOT pay the fine or plead guilty without consulting a licensed Mississippi criminal defense attorney. Reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor.
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 conviction: fine of not less than $5 nor more than $100.
Show up prepared
First conviction: fine of not less than $5 nor more than $100. Arrive early, dress neatly, and bring your documents plus a short, factual statement of your side.
Prepare for your Mississippi 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 →Mississippi Reckless Driving ticket — frequently asked questions
What is the statute for reckless driving in Mississippi?
MCA § 63-3-1201 — Reckless Driving. A person is guilty of reckless driving who operates a vehicle 'in such a manner as to indicate either a wilful or a wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.' The key element is wilful or wanton disregard — the driver must have consciously disregarded a known risk to others. Careless driving (MCA § 63-3-1213), a lesser offense, applies when a person drives in a 'careless or imprudent manner, without due regard for the width, grade, curves, corners, traffic and use of the streets and highways.'
Is reckless driving a criminal offense in Mississippi?
Yes. Reckless driving under MCA § 63-3-1201 is a criminal misdemeanor — not merely a traffic infraction. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record in addition to a traffic record. It carries significantly higher insurance consequences than a standard traffic ticket. Three reckless driving convictions within one 12-month period result in mandatory license revocation for one year.
What are the penalties for reckless driving in Mississippi?
First conviction: fine of not less than $5 nor more than $100. Second or subsequent conviction: imprisonment for not more than 10 days and/or a fine not exceeding $500. Third conviction within 12 months: mandatory license revocation for one year (MCA § 63-1-51). These are the statutory maximums — actual penalties depend on the court and facts of the case.
What is the difference between reckless driving and careless driving in Mississippi?
Mississippi distinguishes the two offenses under separate statutes. Reckless driving (MCA § 63-3-1201) requires 'wilful or wanton disregard' — a deliberate choice to ignore a known danger to others. Careless driving (MCA § 63-3-1213) is a lower standard: driving 'in a careless or imprudent manner, without due regard' for conditions — essentially negligent but not intentional. Importantly, MCA § 63-3-1201 states that 'reckless driving shall be considered a greater offense than careless driving.' Careless driving carries a maximum fine of $50 — an attorney may be able to negotiate a reduction from reckless to careless driving, significantly reducing consequences.
What should I do if cited for reckless driving in Mississippi?
Do NOT pay the fine or plead guilty without consulting a licensed Mississippi criminal defense attorney. Reckless driving is a criminal misdemeanor. An attorney can: negotiate a reduction to careless driving (MCA § 63-3-1213); seek a dismissal or deferred outcome if the court allows; or challenge whether the specific facts actually support 'wilful or wanton disregard.' Without an attorney, you risk a permanent criminal record and dramatically higher insurance rates.
Can I get a reckless driving charge reduced or diverted in Mississippi?
Potentially — some Mississippi courts may allow a first-time reckless driving offender to avoid a conviction through negotiation, deferred adjudication, or reduction to careless driving. There is no statewide formal program. The outcome depends entirely on the specific court, the facts, the prosecutor, and whether an attorney advocates for a favorable disposition. Attorney representation is strongly recommended for any reckless driving charge.
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.