If you face DWI charges, then there may be several defenses that could convince the court to reduce the charges or penalties, or to dismiss the charges altogether. In some cases, though, it is wiser to plead guilty to reckless driving than to risk a DUI conviction.
As the Department of Motor Vehicles explains, the penalties for drunk driving can cost a small fortune, send you to jail, order the installation of an interlock ignition device, suspend your license and mar your arrest record. With the number of alcohol-related accidents and fatalities on New York roads each year, the law offers little sympathy for those who drink and drive.
New York DWI laws are strict, and few people are eligible for driving-related plea bargains. To qualify, it must be your first offense, and your blood alcohol level at time of arrest should border the legal limit.
One way that your charges could reduce is if the prosecutor offers a “wet reckless.” However, public pressure makes prosecutors hesitant to offer these bargains.
A charge of wet reckless comes with fewer costs, obligations and punishments than a traditional DUI conviction. If the violation caused an accident or injury, then you will not be eligible for reduced charges.
To find out if you may qualify for wet reckless, contact The Law Offices of Darren DeUrso. White Plains DWI lawyer Darren DeUrso can evaluate your case and aggressively fight for a positive outcome. To schedule a consultation, call our office today at 914-772-8614.
In the meantime, here are three facts to know about wet reckless:
- Wet reckless convictions have penalties.
The penalties associated with reckless driving are less severe than DUI convictions. You will have to pay a fine of no more than $100. Prison sentences are rare though still possible. You may also face a 90-day jail sentence or a maximum probation of six months. You will not have a DUI on your driving record, but you will receive four additional points on your license.
- Another offense is likely to be a second DUI charge.
Although a wet reckless plea can reduce the penalties of a first offense, any subsequent charges will likely count as a second DUI. If you are convicted, then you may face jail time, a hefty fine and other consequences.
- A wet reckless will affect your insurance premiums.
This fact confuses almost everyone: Reckless drivers have to pay higher insurance rates than drunk drivers. Insurance companies increase premiums according to risk, and while DUI convicts and reckless drivers are both “high risk,” statistics prove that reckless drivers cause more accidents.
DWI attorney Darren DeUrso understands how to bargain for a wet reckless plea. As your legal counsel, Mr. DeUrso will be your on-call support, helping you navigate the legal system and fighting for the best possible outcome. To schedule a consultation, call our office today at 914-772-8614.