Reckless Driving 

Reckless Driving (see RCW 46.61.500) has two sides: criminal prosecution and DOL consequences. Upon conviction, the court will send the notice to the DOL to suspend the license. 

In essence, Reckless Driving is defined as driving a vehicle "in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property". It is a gross misdemeanor which means that it is punishable by imprisonment for up to 364 days and by a fine of not more than $5,000. In some cases, Reckless Driving is reduced to Negligent Driving 1st (Neg 1), see RCW 46.61.5249.  Neg 1, while it is a criminal offense, does not trigger an automatic license suspension. If convicted of Reckless Driving, your license will be suspended for 30 days. 

For more information on the DOL's (Driver's License) Implications, see tab "DUI".  You may be able to get restricted license if you do not have any other suspension that may prevent this. This is called an Occupational Restricted License (ORL). Also, you may get an Ignition Interlock License (IIL). Separate from the criminal matter, you may also appeal DOL's decision within 15 days from the date on the DOL's suspension letter.

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