A wet reckless charge is a lesser charge than a DUI, given to those who exhibit recklessness while driving under the influence. It is usually offered as a plea deal option, resulting in a fine, probation, and alcohol treatment programs. However, it still counts as a prior and increases insurance premiums. Consulting an attorney is recommended when considering this option.
A wet reckless charge is a charge that can be leveled against someone who exhibits recklessness while driving under the influence (DUI). Essentially, it is a charge of reckless driving aggravated by the consumption of alcohol. Not all regions have reckless laws, but many do, largely to encourage people to plead guilty rather than force a case to go to trial and consume vast amounts of resources.
Essentially, a wet reckless charge is a step down from a DUI charge. The next step would be a “dry recklessness,” which is something of a misnomer, as people who plead guilty to a dry recklessness charge may still be required to complete alcohol treatment programs. The “wet” charge is usually offered as a plea deal option; If someone agrees to plead guilty, the higher DUI charge will be dropped and a penalty determined quickly without going to trial.
When someone pleads guilty or is convicted of a reckless charge, he or she will have to pay a fine and go to probation. The charge is usually recorded in the registry for 10 years, and the defendant may be required to complete an alcohol treatment program; your license may also be suspended. In contrast, DUI charges always result in jail time, often plea bargaining against a defendant who suspects he or she will likely be convicted.
However, humbly pleading reckless does not allow the defendant to get away without further penalties. Insurance premiums typically increase when this charge is recorded on someone’s record, since the insurance company treats it as a DUI. Plus, it counts as prior, so if someone is charged with drunk driving again within 10 years, he or she may face stiffer penalties.
Someone facing a drunk driving charge may choose to ask if he or she can plead guilty to a wet reckless charge, preferring their slightly reduced penalties. Consulting an attorney is generally a good idea when considering this, as these charges are not an option in all areas, or an attorney may have additional information and advice specific to the defendant’s case. Of course, one could always avoid the decision of whether or not to enter a guilty plea by not driving drunk.
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