Driving without headlights in Illinois can result in reckless driving charges. Getting a citation for something that seems like a simple equipment issue can be surprising. This is especially true once you realize it’s being treated as a criminal offense rather than a routine traffic ticket. If you’ve been charged with reckless driving, our Kane County criminal defense lawyer can help you understand exactly why this charge was filed. Together, we can challenge the allegations.
How Does Illinois Law Define Reckless Driving?
Illinois defines reckless driving under 625 ILCS 5/11-503. This law makes it illegal to drive with a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of people or property. Reckless driving is different from many traffic violations. It’s a misdemeanor. That means a conviction becomes part of your criminal record rather than simply affecting your driving history. This standard focuses on your state of mind and the overall danger created by your actions. Because of this, prosecutors often look at the full context surrounding an incident.