In Ontario County, reckless driving under NY VTL § 1212 carries up to 30 days in jail and a $300 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. A Reckless Driving Lawyer Ontario County can challenge the evidence and negotiate reductions. Call (888) 437-7747.
Last verified: April 2026 | Ontario County Supreme Court | NY Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1212 (official New York State Senate)
New York Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 1212 defines reckless driving as operating a motor vehicle in a manner that unreasonably interferes with the free and proper use of the public highway, or that unreasonably endangers users of the public highway. This is a misdemeanor offense in New York, distinct from a simple traffic infraction. A conviction adds 5 points to your driving record under the NY DMV point system. The statute covers actions like excessive speeding, weaving through traffic, or racing on public roads. A Reckless Driving Lawyer Ontario County understands how to challenge the subjective standard of “unreasonable” interference or endangerment.
Ontario County Supreme Court (official court website) — Cases are heard at 27 North Main Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a Reckless Driving Lawyer Ontario County to review the ticket and discuss your driving history.
- Evidence Gathering: Obtain the police report, any dashcam footage, and witness statements.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence if the stop was unlawful or the officer lacked probable cause.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer can negotiate with the Ontario County District Attorney’s office for a reduction to a lesser offense like speeding.
- Trial or Plea: If no acceptable deal is reached, proceed to trial before a judge in Ontario County Supreme Court.
In Ontario County, reckless driving carries up to 30 days in jail, a $300 fine, and 5 points on your NY driving record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reckless Driving (VTL § 1212) | Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $300 | 5 points; possible suspension | Driver Responsibility Assessment: $100/year for 3 years (6+ points) |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our firm has 120+ years of combined legal experience. Results may vary.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New York Location
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142, Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our New York location serves clients at Ontario County courts. The office is accessible via I-90 (NYS Thruway), I-81, and I-390. We serve Canandaigua, Geneva, Victor, Farmington, Manchester, Phelps, Hopewell, Seneca (NY), and East Bloomfield. If you need a Reckless Driving Lawyer Ontario County, call (888) 437-7747.
Can a reckless driving charge be dismissed in Ontario County?
Yes. A reckless driving charge can be dismissed if the officer lacked probable cause for the stop, or if the evidence does not prove “unreasonable” interference or endangerment. An aggressive driving defense lawyer Ontario County can file a motion to dismiss based on insufficient evidence or procedural errors.
What is the difference between reckless driving and aggressive driving in NY?
Reckless driving (VTL § 1212) is a misdemeanor requiring proof of intentional disregard for safety. Aggressive driving is not a separate NY statute but describes behaviors like tailgating or weaving. Both can lead to a reckless driving charge dismissed lawyer Ontario County negotiating a reduction to a non-criminal infraction.
How many points is reckless driving in Ontario County?
5 points under the NY DMV point system. Accumulating 11 points in 18 months triggers a license suspension. A Reckless Driving Lawyer Ontario County can help you avoid points by negotiating a plea to a lesser offense like speeding (3-6 points).
Will I go to jail for reckless driving in Ontario County?
It depends. First-time offenders with no prior record rarely receive jail time. However, the maximum penalty is 30 days in jail. A skilled Reckless Driving Lawyer Ontario County can argue for a fine-only sentence or an ACD (Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal).
Can I get an ACD for reckless driving in Ontario County?
It depends. ACD (Adjournment in Contemplation of Dismissal) is available for some first-time misdemeanor offenses in NY. If granted, charges are dismissed after 6-12 months with no new arrests. An aggressive driving defense lawyer Ontario County can request this disposition from the court.