Reckless operation of a vehicle is a crime in Louisiana. The offense is defined as driving in a "criminally negligent or reckless manner." In other words, a person can be convicted of reckless operation for driving in a way that a reasonably careful person would know is dangerous.
In Louisiana, reckless operation is a misdemeanor. The possible penalties for a violation are:
Motorists who are convicted of three reckless operation offenses within a period of 12 months are looking at a 24-month license suspension.
In some states, it's possible for a driver who's charged with operating while intoxicated (OWI) to "plea bargain" for a lesser charge. When an OWI is plea-bargained down to a reckless driving charge, it's sometimes called a "wet reckless."
Louisiana law doesn't prohibit plea bargaining in OWI cases. So, for someone who's accused of drunk driving in Louisiana, convincing a prosecutor to reduce the charge to reckless operation might be possible. However, when a reckless operation offense involved alcohol, the judge must impose an additional $100 in fines.
The facts of every case are different. If you've been arrested for or charged with reckless driving, get in contact with an experienced defense attorney. A qualified attorney can explain how the law applies to the facts of your case and help you decide on how best to handle your situation.