In Maine, unsafe driving can lead to "driving to endanger" (also called "reckless driving") charges. This article explains how Maine defines driving to endanger and the penalties you'll face for a conviction.
Maine uses the term "driving to endanger" instead of "reckless driving." A driving-to-endanger conviction requires proof that the motorist was:
A driver doesn't need to endanger someone outside of the vehicle to be convicted: endangerment of the driver or a passenger in the driver's vehicle is sufficient. (Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 29-A, § 2413.)
The consequences of a Maine driving to endanger conviction depend on the circumstances. However, the possible penalties are provided below.
Most driving-to-endanger violations are class E crimes. Convicted motorists are looking at up to six months in jail, a maximum $1,000 in fines, and a license suspension of 30 to 180 days.
An offender who causes "serious bodily injury" to another person can be convicted of aggravated driving to endanger, a class C crime. The offender faces up to five years behind bars, a maximum of $5,000 in fines, and a license suspension of 180 days to two years.
A driving-to-endanger conviction will also add two demerit points to the motorist's driving record. Accumulating 12 or more points within a year leads to license suspension.
In Maine, it's possible for a person who's accused of operating under the influence (OUI) to "plea bargain" for a lesser charge. When an OUI is plea-bargained down to a reckless driving (or driving to endanger) charge, it's sometimes called a "wet reckless."
The facts of every case are different. If you've been arrested for or charged with driving to endanger, 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.