A Fort Lauderdale man is facing vehicular homicide and reckless driving charges after a high speed race ended in a crash killed a four year old boy. According to reports, the accused was driving a his car at 70 mph behind another car. He lost control of the car and hit a woman and two young children. Further police investigation revealed the accused was driving between 80 and 83 mph early that evening around 8 pm. The accused claims a car made a wide turn in front of the Honda. When the Honda attempted to stop, the accused was not able to stop and swerved to avoid a collision; losing control of the car. A year after the arrest prosecutors are in court moving forward with the trial. The man is facing serious charges for this incident.
Reckless Driving is More than Speed Racing
Many people are surprised to find that reckless driving is a criminal offense. Reckless driving is no proven by speed alone, although it can be a factor that is used in a cop determining probable cause. In order for a court to convict you of reckless driving a court must find that you were driving in a way that demonstrates your disregard for the safety of people and property.
What are the Penalties for Reckless Driving
The penalties for reckless driving in Florida depend on the number of previous offenses and the extent of damage to people and property.
- First Time Offense: a first offense in Florida with no bodily injury or property is a first degree misdemeanor with penalties of up to 90 days in jail or six months of probation, and a $500 fine.
- Second and Subsequent Offenses: a second offense for reckless driving is also a misdemeanor punishable with up to six months in jail and up to a $1,000 fine.
The penalties for reckless driving increases when there is property damage or bodily injury. If there is serious bodily injury. Florida law upgrades the offense to a third degree felony, with penalties of up to five years in prison or five years probation, and a $5,000 fine.
Vehicular Manslaughter: A Serious Reckless Driving Charge
Vehicular Manslaughter, or Vehicular Homicide, is the most serious reckless driving charge because it involves the death of another human being. Vehicular manslaughter is a second degree felony punishable with up to fifteen years in prison and revocation of driving privileges. Vehicular homicide is essentially a person whose reckless driving causes the death of another
Seek Help From an Attorney
Speed racing and high speed chases are the stuff of movies. In real life, the impact of reckless driving can result in serious damage to property and the death of innocent bystanders. If you are facing reckless driving charges then you should contact Moses and Rooth, we understand the nuances of the criminal courts and can serve as a strong advocate for you in court. Please contact us at 407-377-0150 to schedule an appointment.
Andrew Moses
Andrew has been practicing criminal law his entire career. After graduating from law school he began working as an Assistant State Attorney prosecuting cases in Orange and Osceola Counties. During his time as an Assistant State Attorney, Andrew handled all types of cases ranging from misdemeanors to such serious felonies as drug trafficking and armed robbery. His experience as a prosecutor helped him gain perspective of the criminal justice system and how the government established its cases.
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