A criminal defense attorney in Fort Lauderdale can explain that speed in and of itself is insufficient to establish reckless driving.  He or she can discuss some of the situations that may rise to the level of this charge.  Some examples a criminal defense attorney in Fort Lauderdale may give include:

Driving Through a Crowded Residential Area

When a person is speeding through a crowded residential area, he or she likely knows that someone could be hurt by these actions.

Disregarding the Presence of Children 

Motorists know to keep a proper lookout for children who may not be aware of the potential risks of darting into the street.  If there is a school zone sign or other sign demonstrating the presence of children and still drives in a careless manner, this may be evidence of reckless driving.

Ignoring Traffic Signals 

A person who flies past a red light without flinching may know that other motorists may be injured in the process.

Improper Passing 

Speeding coupled with passing another vehicle especially on a curved section of road may constitute reckless driving in Florida.  Likewise, reckless driving may be present when a driver attempts to pass from the right hand lane.

Additional Impairments 

Driving drunk or while impaired by drugs while also speeding, driving erratically on wet pavement or hitting a vehicle with no attempt to brake can also be considered reckless driving.

Dangerous Vehicles 

A person who has no regard for the safety of his or her vehicle may be recklessly driving.  For example, if the vehicle’s tire is in obvious need of replacement and missing a lug nut, a court can find reckless driving was present.