When it comes to the question, “What is reckless driving?” Kentucky’s legal statutes can be a little vague. Instead of discussing what constitutes as reckless driving, the Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS) 189.290 considers any behavior that disregards the safety of the driver, passenger, or other motorists or pedestrians to be “reckless driving.”

The reason why this definition is so broad is because the Kentucky legislature wanted this statute to include any behaviors that may be considered unsafe. But what are some of these unsafe behaviors that motorists should watch out for? And what are the penalties for reckless driving in Kentucky? Our team at JPS Law is here to discuss good and bad behaviors behind the wheel and how reckless driving may impact you!

KRS 189.290

As stated above, the Kentucky Revised Statutes don’t go into great detail about how they define reckless driving. In fact, KRS 189:290 doesn’t define the term itself, with the title “Operator of vehicle to drive carefully.” The statue defines these behaviors as:

1. The operator of any vehicle upon a highway shall operate the vehicle in a careful manner, with regard for the safety and convenience of pedestrians and other vehicles upon the highway.
2. No person shall willfully operate any vehicle on any highway in such a manner as to injure the highway.

What Is Reckless Driving?

Some behaviors that Kentucky state law considers to be reckless driving includes:

• Driving over the posted speed limit;
• Making erratic or unnecessary movements or lane changes;
• Tailgating (following another driver too closely);
• Passing a vehicle on the shoulder or at an inappropriate time;
• Distracted driving, like being preoccupied with a cell phone;
• Drag racing;

This is not an exhaustive list. The statute was written broadly to include any other behavior that demonstrates a basic disregard for the safety of yourself or others.

What Are Penalties for Reckless Driving in Kentucky?

Where there is one statute for how reckless driving is defined, the penalties for reckless driving in Kentucky fall under several different categories and can vary in terms of severity based on the alleged offense. Most of these penalties can include fines and court fees, points taken off one’s license, and the potential for immediate license suspension or even jail time.

The Kentucky Driver’s License Point System

The Kentucky driver's license point system is designed to identify potentially hazardous drivers and monitor their driving behavior to enhance road safety. The intent behind the point system is to encourage responsible driving habits to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries on the road.

For drivers under the age of 18, accumulating 7 points within a two-year period can lead to a suspension of driving privileges. For drivers aged 18 and older, the threshold is 12 points within a two-year period, which may also result in a suspended driver's license.

Different traffic offenses carry varying point values. For instance, offenses like texting while driving, speeding 10-15 MPH over the limit, or failing to yield may result in three points. More serious offenses like higher speeding, tailgating, improper passing, or failing to stop for an emergency vehicle can add four or more points to your license.

Speak with A Defense Lawyer Near Lexington, Kentucky

As experienced defense lawyers, our legal team at JPS Law is committed to offering you valuable insights when it comes to reckless driving or other alleged traffic offenses.

Located centrally out of Lexington, Kentucky, we proudly serve the Commonwealth and are here to provide you the support you need. Give us a call or text us at (859) 940-7480 to learn about how we can help you. Contact JPS Law online to book an appointment with a member of our team today.