Maine's "Driving to Endanger" (Reckless Driving) Laws and Penalties

Maine uses the term "driving to endanger" instead of "reckless driving." A driving-to-endanger conviction requires proof that the motorist was:

• driving in a way that endangered another person or property, and
• "criminally negligent" in doing so.

A driver doesn't need to endanger someone outside of the vehicle to be convicted: endangerment of the driver or a passenger in the driver's vehicle is sufficient.

Driving to Endanger Penalties

The consequences of a Maine driving to endanger conviction depend on the circumstances. But the possible penalties are:

• Standard driving to endanger. Most driving to endanger violations are class E crimes. Convicted motorists are looking at up to six months in jail, a maximum $1,000 in fines, and a license suspension of 30 to 180 days.
• Aggravated driving to endanger. An offender who causes "serious bodily injury" to another person can be convicted of aggravated driving to endanger, a class C crime. The offender faces up to five years behind bars, a maximum $5,000 in fines, and a license suspension of 180 days to two years.

A driving-to-endanger conviction will also add two demerit points to the motorist's driving record. Accumulating 12 or more points within a year leads to license suspension.

Driving to Endanger and OUI/DUI Charges ("Wet Reckless")

In Maine, it's possible for a person who's accused of operating under the influence (OUI) to "plea bargain" for a lesser charge. When an OUI is plea-bargained down to a reckless driving (or driving to endanger) charge, it's sometimes called a "wet reckless."

Talk to an Attorney

The facts of every case are different. If you've been arrested for or charged with driving to endanger, 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.