In Nevada, a person can be convicted of "reckless driving" for:
The term "willful" refers to conduct that is intentional or purposeful. And "wanton" generally means the person understood but disregarded the consequences of the conduct.
A driver can be cited for reckless driving on any roadway to which the public has access. For example, shopping center parking lots are private property but open to the public.
Nevada's reckless driving law also lists a number of traffic violations that constitute reckless driving if—while committing the violation—the motorist causes a collision with a pedestrian or person riding a bike. These violations include:
In other words, if a driver hits a pedestrian or bicyclist while committing one of these traffic offense, it's reckless driving per se.
In most situations, a Nevada reckless driving conviction is a misdemeanor. However, the consequences of a reckless driving violation depend on which type of offense the driver is convicted of.
For a reckless driving offense based on a willful or wanton disregard for the safety persons or property, the possible penalties are:
A reckless driving conviction will also add eight demerit points to the motorist's driving record. Accumulating 12 points or more within a year leads to a six-month license suspension.
For reckless driving offenses involving collisions, the possible penalties are:
All motorists convicted of collision-related reckless driving will have their license suspended for six months to two years. A judge can also order vehicle impoundment of 15 days for a first offender and 30 days for a motorist convicted of a second or subsequent violation.
For trick driving per se offenses, which are gross misdemeanors, the possible penalties are:
The court can also issue a license suspension for six months to two years and impound the driver's vehicle for 30 days.
A motorist who causes "serious bodily harm" or death to another person while committing a reckless driving offense can be convicted of a category B felony. A conviction carries one to six years in prison, $2,000 to $5,000 in fines, and a three-year license suspension.
In some states, it's possible for a driver who's charged with driving under the influence (DUI) to "plea bargain" for a lesser charge. When a DUI is plea-bargained down to a reckless driving charge, it's sometimes called a "wet reckless."
Nevada law restricts plea bargaining in DUI cases. So, in most DUI cases, it isn't possible to plea bargain for a wet reckless or any other lesser charge.
The consequences of a reckless driving conviction in Nevada can be serious, especially if the offense involved injuries or deaths. 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.