Maine's "Driving to Endanger" (Reckless Driving) Laws and Penalties

Read about the Maine’s driving to endanger laws and the consequences of a conviction.

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.

What's Considered "Driving to Endanger" (Reckless Driving) in Maine?

Maine uses the term "driving to endanger" instead of "reckless driving." A driving-to-endanger conviction requires proof that the motorist was:

  • driving in a way that endangered another person or property, and
  • "criminally negligent" in doing so.

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.)

Maine's Driving to Endanger (Reckless Driving) Penalties

The consequences of a Maine driving to endanger conviction depend on the circumstances. However, the possible penalties are provided below.

Jail Time, Fines, and License Suspension for Driving to Endanger in Maine

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.

Jail Time, Fines, and License Suspension for Aggravated Driving to Endanger in Maine

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.

Points for Driving-to-Endanger Convictions in Maine

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.

Driving to Endanger and OUI/DUI Charges ("Wet Reckless") in Maine

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."

Talk to a Maine Defense Attorney

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.

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