How to Fight a Reckless Driving Ticket in North Carolina
If you got a reckless driving ticket in North Carolina, you can usually pay it, contest it in court, or pursue a dismissal/mitigation option. Reckless driving (NCGS § 20-140) is a Class 2 misdemeanor: fines at the court's discretion; up to 60 days in jail (Class 2 misdemeanor maximum); 4 demerit points on your NC DMV record; significantly higher insurance rates (insurance points).
How to fight a reckless driving ticket in North Carolina, step by step
Decide how to plead
Reckless driving (NCGS § 20-140) is a Class 2 misdemeanor: fines at the court's discretion; up to 60 days in jail (Class 2 misdemeanor maximum); 4 demerit points on your NC DMV record; significantly higher insurance rates (insurance points). A conviction creates a permanent criminal record.
Check North Carolina's dismissal & mitigation options
Do NOT plead guilty without consulting a licensed North Carolina criminal defense attorney. Reckless driving is a Class 2 misdemeanor creating a permanent criminal record, possible jail time, 4 demerit points, 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
Reckless driving (NCGS § 20-140) is a Class 2 misdemeanor: fines at the court's discretion; up to 60 days in jail (Class 2 misdemeanor maximum); 4 demerit points on your NC DMV record; significantly higher insurance rates (insurance points).
Show up prepared
Reckless driving (NCGS § 20-140) is a Class 2 misdemeanor: fines at the court's discretion; up to 60 days in jail (Class 2 misdemeanor maximum); 4 demerit points on your NC DMV record; significantly higher insurance rates (insurance points). 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 →North Carolina Reckless Driving ticket — frequently asked questions
What is the statute for reckless driving in North Carolina?
NCGS § 20-140 — Reckless driving. Any person who drives any vehicle upon a highway carelessly and heedlessly in willful or wanton disregard of the rights or safety of others, or who drives without due caution and circumspection and at a speed or in a manner so as to endanger or be likely to endanger any person or property, is guilty of reckless driving. Reckless driving in North Carolina is a Class 2 misdemeanor.
What are the penalties for reckless driving in North Carolina?
Reckless driving (NCGS § 20-140) is a Class 2 misdemeanor: fines at the court's discretion; up to 60 days in jail (Class 2 misdemeanor maximum); 4 demerit points on your NC DMV record; significantly higher insurance rates (insurance points). A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. A PJC may NOT be appropriate for a Class 2 misdemeanor — consult an attorney. Do NOT plead guilty without consulting a licensed North Carolina criminal defense attorney.
What should I do if cited for reckless driving in North Carolina?
Do NOT plead guilty without consulting a licensed North Carolina criminal defense attorney. Reckless driving is a Class 2 misdemeanor creating a permanent criminal record, possible jail time, 4 demerit points, and dramatically higher insurance rates. An attorney can challenge whether the conduct meets the recklessness standard, negotiate a reduction to a lesser infraction (such as improper equipment or a reduced speed charge), or explore whether a deferred disposition is available in your county.
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.