Wet Reckless

A “wet” reckless is also known as an alcohol-related reckless driving / reckless driving involving alcohol charge. It is a typical result of a 1st offense DUI plea in California, in which the defendant pleads guity or nolo contendere to a drunk driving offense.

A wet reckless will count as a prior drunk driving offense in California, if you are arrested and charged in the  subsequent 10 years. This is not true of a “dry” reckless driving.

Reference: California Vehicle Code Division 11, Chapter 12, Article 1 Section 23103.5

Penalties For “Wet” Reckless in California

If you are found guilty or plead guilty or nolo to a reckless driving involving alcohol, with no prior DUI offenses, you can expect penalties of:

• Jail time: Maximum of 90 days
• Probation: 1-2 years
• Up to 12 hours of alcohol education/substance abuse programs

Generally, this is a lesser penalty than a DUI conviction, which can result in up to 5 years of probation, and a court mandated 6 month license suspension, in addition to any DMV administrative license suspension.

If you have a previous, 2nd offense DUI or additional prior DUI convictions, a wet reckless plea is more often a good deal. Pleading to a wet reckless can take mandatory jail time off the table in sentencing.

Considering a DUI Plea? Take Advantage of our California DUI Legal Consultation

Drunk driving laws in California are incredibly complicated. The laws are very difficult for the average person to sort through. And how they are applied in court can vary in different counties, different courts, and different judges.

In some cases, a wet reckless might be the best deal you can get. But in many situations, it makes sense to hold out for a lesser charge that won’t stick you with an alcohol related criminal driving charge, or take the case to trial and get a not guilty.

You have the right to challenge a criminal charge against you. And the police do make mistakes all the time. Any plea to a criminal charge can have serious life consequences you need to consider. It makes sense for you to make sure you’ve evaluated all of the legal defense options available to you under California criminal law, and the Constitution of the United States.

Call us today to get our take on your case. There is no obligation.