Being charged with Reckless Driving in Texas can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. Whether you were caught speeding excessively, weaving through traffic, or cited for aggressive driving, this is not a charge you should take lightly.
Reckless driving is a criminal offense in Texas. It can lead to fines, jail time, increased insurance premiums, and a lasting criminal record. But here’s the good news — you’re not alone, and you’re not without options.
If you’ve been charged with reckless driving in the Houston area, you need a legal professional who knows how to protect your rights, fight your charges, and work toward the best possible outcome.
That’s where Attorney Eric Benavides and the Benavides Law Group come in.
What Is Reckless Driving Under Texas Law?
In Texas, reckless driving is defined under Texas Transportation Code § 545.401, which states:
“A person commits an offense if the person drives a vehicle in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.”
This broad definition means that law enforcement has a lot of discretion. Reckless driving can be charged for a variety of reasons, including:
- Excessive speeding (e.g., 30+ mph over the limit)
- Swerving or weaving through traffic
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Street racing or engaging in exhibitions of speed
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Tailgating or road rage incidents
- Fleeing from a police officer
Many people are surprised to learn that reckless driving is not just a traffic violation — it is a criminal misdemeanor offense in Texas.
What Are the Penalties for Reckless Driving in Texas?
Reckless Driving is a Class B Misdemeanor
This means you could face:
- Up to 30 days in county jail
- Up to $200 in fines
- Possible suspension of your driver's license
- Permanent criminal record
However, depending on the facts of your case and your prior criminal history, prosecutors may try to enhance the charge or stack it with other offenses, such as:
- DWI (Driving While Intoxicated)
- Racing on a Highway
- Evading Arrest
- Endangering a Child
If your case involves any type of accident, property damage, or injury to another person, the consequences can become far more severe.
The Hidden Costs of a Reckless Driving Conviction
Even if you avoid jail time, a conviction can carry long-term consequences that disrupt your life for years:
- Your auto insurance rates may skyrocket. Insurance companies often label those convicted of reckless driving as high-risk drivers.
- Your record can impact job opportunities. Many employers perform background checks, and a reckless driving conviction could make you appear irresponsible or dangerous.
- It can affect housing applications. Landlords may be less inclined to rent to individuals with criminal records.
- You may face increased scrutiny during future traffic stops. Once labeled as reckless, future citations may lead to harsher penalties.
This is why it’s essential to take this charge seriously from the start.
Why You Need an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in Houston
Reckless driving cases can be complex, and not all attorneys are equally equipped to handle them. You need someone who:
- Knows the law and the court system inside and out
- Has negotiated with Houston prosecutors thousands of times
- Can challenge evidence, argue legal points, and protect your driving record
- Won’t hand you off to a junior associate or paralegal
That Attorney Is Eric Benavides
Eric Benavides has been practicing criminal law in Houston for over 17 years. He is a seasoned, aggressive, and respected criminal defense attorney who knows how to win.
When you hire Eric Benavides, you work directly with him — not with an assistant, not with a junior lawyer. That personal attention is critical when your freedom and future are on the line.
With a deep understanding of how Texas prosecutors build cases, Eric Benavides brings insight, strategy, and proven results to the table.
How Eric Benavides Can Help You Fight a Reckless Driving Charge
Every case is different. Attorney Benavides will thoroughly analyze the circumstances surrounding your arrest, including:
- Was the traffic stop lawful?
- Did the officer have probable cause?
- Are the allegations exaggerated or unsubstantiated?
- Were there any witnesses, dashcams, or bodycams?
- Was there another explanation for your driving behavior (medical emergency, mechanical issue, etc.)?
Potential Outcomes
Depending on your case, Attorney Benavides may be able to:
- Get your case dismissed
- Negotiate a reduction to a non-criminal traffic offense
- Avoid jail time or a license suspension
- Keep your record clean through a deferred adjudication or pretrial diversion program
In many cases, reckless driving can be resolved without a conviction, but only if you have a skilled criminal defense lawyer guiding the process.
Why Clients Choose Attorney Eric Benavides
Over 17 Years of Experience
Eric Benavides has spent nearly two decades defending clients in Houston, Harris County, and surrounding areas. His longevity and reputation speak for themselves.
Direct Access to Your Attorney
You’re not a case number. You’ll meet, speak, and work directly with Eric — not be shuffled around by office staff.
Local Knowledge of Houston Courts
Eric knows the prosecutors, judges, and procedures specific to Houston criminal courts. That experience gives him a strategic edge.
Aggressive and Strategic Defense
Eric isn’t afraid to go to trial. He carefully evaluates the evidence and prepares each case as if it were going to court — which gives you the strongest position in negotiation or trial.
What Past Clients Say
“What impressed me most about Eric is that he genuinely cares. He called me back the same day, met with me quickly, and explained every step. I never felt like just another client.”
– A.M.
“I interviewed a few lawyers before hiring Eric. He was the only one who didn’t talk down to me. He listened and made a game plan. The outcome was better than I could have imagined.”
– R.L.
Areas We Serve in and Around Houston
Attorney Eric Benavides represents clients in Houston and throughout Harris County, including:
- Downtown Houston
- Galleria Area
- Bellaire
- The Heights
- Midtown
- West Houston
- Cypress
- Spring
- Katy
- Sugar Land
- Pearland
- Baytown
- Pasadena
- Galena Park
- And other surrounding communities
If you've been charged with reckless driving anywhere in the Houston metro area, you need to contact the Benavides Law Group immediately.
Take the First Step – Contact Eric Benavides Today
Being charged with reckless driving in Texas can feel like the world is against you — but you don’t have to face it alone.
Attorney Eric Benavides is here to help. With 17+ years of criminal defense experience, a personalized approach to each client, and a strong reputation in the legal community, Eric is the right choice to handle your case with skill and care.
📞 Call now: (713) 222-2828
🌐 Visit: www.EricBenavides.com
📍 Office in Houston, TX
We offer free consultations, so don’t wait. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can begin fighting for your future.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been charged with reckless driving, know this:
- It’s a criminal offense with real consequences.
- It can hurt your job, insurance, and record.
- You need an experienced and aggressive defense attorney.
- You need someone who cares and will fight for you personally.
Eric Benavides is that attorney.
Don’t risk your freedom or your future. Call the Benavides Law Group today and get the legal protection you deserve.