New Hampshire's Reckless and Negligent Driving Laws and Penalties

In New Hampshire, operating a vehicle unsafely can lead to reckless driving charges, fines, and license suspension. This article explains how New Hampshire defines reckless driving and the specific penalties you'll face for a conviction.

What Is Considered "Reckless Driving" in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, a "reckless driving" conviction generally requires proof that the motorist:

• drove in a manner that posed a "substantial and unjustifiable" risk to others, and
• was aware of but disregarded the risk.

There are lots of scenarios that could lead to a reckless driving conviction. But New Hampshire law specifically says that street racing and driving 100 miles per hour or faster are by definition reckless driving. (N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 265:79.)

New Hampshire's Reckless Driving Penalties

The consequences of a reckless driving conviction depend on the circumstances. But the possible penalty rangers are provided below.

Fines and License Suspension for 1st Reckless Driving Offense in New Hampshire

• First offense. For a first reckless driving violation, the motorist is looking at a minimum $500 in fines and a 60-day license suspension.

Fines and License Suspension for 2nd Reckless Driving Offense in New Hampshire

A second or subsequent reckless driving conviction carries $750 to $1,000 in fines and a 60-day to one-year license suspension.

Points for New Hampshire Reckless Driving Convictions

A reckless driving conviction will also add six points to a motorist's driving record. Accumulating too many points can lead to license suspension.

Reckless Driving Leading to Deaths in New Hampshire

Violations that lead to the death of another person can result in vehicular homicide or manslaughter charges and more severe penalties.

What Is Considered "Negligent Driving" in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire also has a less serious offense called "negligent driving." Generally, a negligent driving conviction requires proof that the motorist:

• drove in a manner that endangered a person or property, and
• wasn't—but should have been—aware of such danger.

A negligent driving conviction carries $250 to $500 in fines for a first offense and $500 to $1,000 in fines for a second offense. And a negligent driving violation will add four points to the motorist's driving record. (N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 265:79-b.)

Reducing a DUI Charge to Reckless Driving in New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, it's possible for a person who's accused of 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 New Hampshire Defense Attorney

The facts of every case are different. If you've been arrested for or charged with reckless or negligent 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.