Attorneys in North Kingstown and Warwick Representing RI Clients in Reckless Driving Cases

Reckless endangerment lawyers serving East Greenwich, Warwick, Cranston and Coventry

Rhode Island law describes reckless driving as operating "a motor vehicle recklessly so that the lives or safety of the public might be endangered." Reckless driving is a criminal offense in Rhode Island that can result in incarceration fines and significant loss of license. However, for a motorist charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI), a reckless driving conviction often presents a more favorable alternative if applicable.

Kerry I. Rafanelli, Attorney at Law has represented defendants charged with traffic violations, reckless driving and driving while intoxicated charges for 30 years. We aggressively pursue the best possible results in your case.

Reckless driving offenses

Reckless driving involves any behavior that puts the safety of others at risk. Often, reckless driving charges accompany automobile accidents for which a negligent driver is considered at fault. In other cases, prosecutors who lack the requisite evidence to prove a DWI charge may negotiate the lesser reckless driving charge. Some actions that can lead to a reckless driving charge include:

  • Failure to yield
  • Swerving in and out of lanes
  • Driving onto sidewalks or medians
  • Travelling the wrong way down a road
  • Speeding through a school zone or pedestrian crosswalk
  • Engaging in a distractive activity while driving
  • Texting or talking on your mobile phone device while driving
  • Drunk driving

If you are charged with a DWI in Rhode Island

A DWI conviction carries stiff penalties -- including hefty fines, license suspension, community service hours and lengthy prison sentences. The negative effect extends beyond the immediate risk to your freedom, financial security and family relations. Commonly, potential employers ask whether candidates have been convicted of a DWI even for jobs that do not involve driving, and thereby decreasing your employment prospects.

Criminal law attorney Kerry I. Rafanelli is a trained mediator with refined negotiation skills. It's in your best interest, we negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecution that avoids jail time and the negative mark that a DWI conviction leaves on your criminal record. In these cases, charges may be amended to reckless driving -- a crime that carries lesser penalties and stigma than a DWI conviction.

Learn more about DWI and reckless driving defense from an experienced East Greenwich lawyer

Consult an experienced East Greenwich attorney to defend you against charges of reckless driving and DWI. Call Kerry I. Rafanelli, Attorney at Law or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.