How to Fight a Reckless Driving Ticket in New Jersey
If you got a reckless driving ticket in New Jersey, you can usually pay it, contest it in court, or pursue a dismissal/mitigation option. NJSA 39:4-96 penalties: first offense = up to 60 days in jail and/or $50-$200 fine; second or subsequent offense = up to 3 months in jail and/or $100-$500 fine.
How to fight a reckless driving ticket in New Jersey, step by step
Decide how to plead
Do NOT plead guilty without consulting a licensed New Jersey criminal defense or traffic attorney. Reckless driving carries up to 60-90 days jail, significant fines, 5 demerit points, and is quasi-criminal.
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
NJSA 39:4-96 penalties: first offense = up to 60 days in jail and/or $50-$200 fine; second or subsequent offense = up to 3 months in jail and/or $100-$500 fine.
Show up prepared
NJSA 39:4-96 — Reckless driving. 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 →New Jersey Reckless Driving ticket — frequently asked questions
What is the statute for reckless driving in New Jersey?
NJSA 39:4-96 — Reckless driving. Any person who drives a vehicle heedlessly, in willful or wanton disregard of the rights or safety of others, in a manner so as to endanger or be likely to endanger a person or property, is guilty of reckless driving. Reckless driving in NJ is a quasi-criminal offense (not a standard traffic infraction, but also not a full criminal charge) — it carries a mandatory court appearance.
What are the penalties for reckless driving in New Jersey?
NJSA 39:4-96 penalties: first offense = up to 60 days in jail and/or $50-$200 fine; second or subsequent offense = up to 3 months in jail and/or $100-$500 fine. Reckless driving also adds 5 demerit points to your record — the maximum single-violation point value in NJ. 5 points alone is 83% of the 6-point surcharge threshold. A conviction requires mandatory court appearance and is likely to significantly increase insurance premiums. An attorney is strongly recommended.
What should I do if cited for reckless driving in New Jersey?
Do NOT plead guilty without consulting a licensed New Jersey criminal defense or traffic attorney. Reckless driving carries up to 60-90 days jail, significant fines, 5 demerit points, and is quasi-criminal. An attorney can: challenge whether the conduct meets 'willful or wanton disregard'; negotiate a reduction to a lesser violation (such as careless driving under NJSA 39:4-97) which carries 2 points instead of 5; or seek a conditional discharge arrangement in some courts. Request a continuance at first appearance if you do not have an attorney.
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.