Tennessee's Reckless Driving Laws and Penalties

Read about Tennessee’s reckless driving laws and the consequences of a conviction.

In Tennessee, reckless driving is a criminal offense and can lead to serious penalties. This article explains how the law defines reckless driving and the consequences of a conviction.

What Is Considered "Reckless Driving" in Tennessee?

A Tennessee motorist can be convicted of "reckless driving" for:

  • driving in "willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property"
  • doing a wheelie on a motorcycle in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of person or property, or
  • driving into a flooded area that is clearly marked with a warning sign or barricade.

The term "willful" refers to conduct that is intentional or purposeful. And "wanton" generally means the person understood but disregarded the consequences of the conduct. (Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-10-205.)

Tennessee's Reckless Driving Penalties

In Tennessee, reckless driving is a class B misdemeanor. Convicted drivers are looking at up to six months in jail and a maximum of $580 in fines. Any motorist who racks up two reckless driving convictions within a one-year period faces a 12-month license suspension.

A reckless driving conviction will also add six demerit points to the motorist's driving record. Accumulating 12 or more points in a year can lead to a license suspension of six to 12 months.

Reckless Driving and DUI Charges ("Wet Reckless")

In Tennessee, it's possible for a driver who's charged with driving under the influence (DUI) to "plea bargain" for a lesser charge. When a DUI is plea-bargained down to a reckless driving charge, it's sometimes called a "wet reckless."

Talk to a Tennessee Defense Attorney

The consequences of a reckless driving conviction in Tennessee can be serious. If you've been arrested for or charged with reckless driving, get in contact with an experienced defense attorney. A qualified attorney can explain how the law applies to the facts of your case and help you decide on how best to handle your situation.

Defend your rights. We've helped 95 clients find attorneys today.
First Name is required
Continue
First Name is required
Continue
DEFEND YOUR RIGHTS
Talk to a Defense attorney
We've helped 95 clients find attorneys today.
There was a problem with the submission. Please refresh the page and try again
Full Name is required
Email is required
Please enter a valid Email
Phone Number is required
Please enter a valid Phone Number
Zip Code is required
Please add a valid Zip Code
Please enter a valid Case Description
Description is required

How It Works

  1. Briefly tell us about your case
  2. Provide your contact information
  3. Choose attorneys to contact you