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Build My Defense Statement — $25 →⚠️ Reckless driving is a criminal charge in Hawaii — read important details below
Important: This is different from the other tickets we cover. Reckless driving in Hawaii (HRS §291-2) is classified as a petty misdemeanor criminal offense, not a civil traffic infraction. That means a court appearance on the date listed on your citation is generally mandatory — unlike speeding, red light, or parking tickets. Missing your court date can result in a bench warrant.
A written defense statement can still help: it lets you present a clear, well-organized account of the facts and any mitigating circumstances before or during your hearing. But if your case involves an accident, injury, prior convictions, or any possibility of jail time, we strongly recommend also consulting a licensed Hawaii attorney in addition to using our letter.
Reckless driving carries the steepest penalties of any charge on this page, because it's a criminal offense rather than a civil infraction.
Beyond the immediate penalties, a reckless driving conviction is a serious mark on your driving record that insurers treat much more severely than an ordinary moving violation, often resulting in significant premium increases or non-renewal.
A clear, factual, well-organized written statement demonstrates you're taking the matter seriously and can support your credibility at the hearing.
In some cases, a well-documented account of mitigating circumstances can support a reduction to a lesser charge, such as careless driving.
Organizing your account of events, road conditions, and any procedural issues before your court date helps you present it clearly and consistently.
If there's an accident, injury, or prior record involved, our letter is a starting point — not a substitute for a licensed attorney.
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Yes. Unlike civil traffic infractions, reckless driving under HRS §291-2 is a criminal petty misdemeanor, and a court appearance on your citation date is generally mandatory.
The fine can be up to $1,000, and the offense can also carry up to 30 days in jail, either or both, at the court's discretion.
No. Our written statement is meant to support your case and help you present the facts clearly — it does not replace the mandatory court appearance required for this charge.
If your case involves an accident, injuries, prior convictions, or any real risk of jail time, we strongly recommend consulting a licensed Hawaii attorney in addition to preparing a written statement.
Excessive speeding (30+ mph over the limit or 80+ mph) is its own specific violation under HRS §291C-105. Reckless driving under HRS §291-2 is broader and covers operating a vehicle in disregard of the safety of persons or property, and is prosecuted as a criminal offense.
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