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What actions are considered reckless driving in Tennessee?

I just moved to Tennessee from Texas, where I was once pulled over for reckless driving. I don’t want to get in trouble here, but I’m not sure what the different laws are in each state. What is considered reckless driving in Tennessee?

avatar
Macy Fouse · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
You’re right, reckless driving charges can be confusing because they differ so much between states or even officers! For Tennesseans, reckless driving does carry a Class B misdemeanor charge, so it’s best to err on the safe side and always drive with caution.
In
Tennessee
, reckless driving is defined as driving a vehicle in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of people or property. This could mean any number of behaviors and is almost entirely up to the discretion of the police officer who pulled you over.
Here are some examples of reckless driving in Tennessee:
  • Driving 30 mph over the posted speed limit
  • Swerving in the road
  • Drag racing
  • Following another driver too closely
  • Passing on a two-lane highway with limited visibility
  • Doing a wheelie on a motorcycle (unless riding in a parade)
  • Driving on a flooded road when warning signs or barricades were present
Because reckless driving isn’t a mere traffic citation but a criminal charge, it comes with heftier consequences, which could include some or all of the following:
  • Up to six months in jail
  • $500 misdemeanor fine
  • $50 reckless driving fee
  • Six points to your driving record
  • 12-month license suspension, if convicted twice in one year
As if these consequences weren’t serious enough, reckless driving can be detrimental to your
car insurance
rates. Whether your record is pristine or not,
Jerry
can help you find the lowest prices out there, potentially saving you hundreds per year.
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