Q: How to fight a reckless driving 2nd-degree ticket?

A: Sorry to hear. A lawyer is your best chance for fighting this. If you are charged with reckless driving, you would need a criminal defense attorney.

If you got a traffic ticket for Negligent Driving 2nd degree, a traffic ticket attorney can help. Best of luck.

A: There is no such violation in Washington State as Reckless Driving 2nd Degree. But, there is the traffic infraction violation of Negligent Driving 2nd Degree, which is a moving traffic violation, i.e., not a criminal violation, and which has a fine of $559.00. This is one of the most serious "traffic tickets" that can be issued by the police and it can be more serious than the basic violation if a "vulnerable user ", i.e., pedestrian, cyclist or other vulnerable person, is involved and endangered by the negligent driving. The fine for this vulnerable person violation can range from $1,000.00 to $5,000.00 and there can be jail time imposed of up to one year. This new law took effect as of January 1, 2025. You should hire a traffic lawyer who knows the laws and how to best defend against a Negligent Driving 2nd Degree traffic ticket. Remember, you must respond to the ticket within 30 days of it being issued to you by contacting the court clerk's office where the ticket will be adjudicated. Good Luck!

A: Second-degree reckless driving is a serious charge, but you do have options to contest or reduce it. Since there was no accident, no damage, and you have a clean driving record, those facts can work in your favor. The officer likely viewed the combination of passing multiple vehicles and having your notebook out as demonstrating a disregard for safety, which is why the charge was issued.

When you appear in court, it’s important to show that you understand the seriousness of the charge and take responsibility for your actions—without admitting guilt. You can explain that you were under stress from preparing for an exam, that it was a momentary lapse in judgment, and that it wasn’t your usual behavior. Emphasizing your clean record and lack of harmful intent may help the judge consider a reduced charge or alternative like traffic school.

Gather any character references, academic responsibilities, or other supporting information to show you're typically a responsible individual. You may also want to ask the court if they offer diversion programs or reduced penalties for first-time offenders. Stay calm, be respectful, and approach the situation with honesty. Judges often look at how you handle yourself in court just as much as the facts of the case.