In May, the California Highway Patrol deployed statewide one hundred Specially Marked Patrol Vehicles, or SMPV’s, to combat reckless driving, which includes distracted and aggressive driving.
I recently rode along for a couple of days in one of the new souped-up Dodge Durangos with darker paint schemes, concealed lights and antennas, and a more subtle CHP logo on the doors. The souped-up SUVs come with a V-8 engine, ballistic doors, and special suspension.
On my first day I went with Officer Joe Davila from CHP’s Baldwin Park Station. We were headed eastbound on the 10 when he noticed a woman in a BMW using the HOV lane to pass a car in the number one lane.
The woman told the officer she was late to her daughter’s doctor appointment. Davila explained she not only illegally used the HOV to pass but was also going way over the speed limit. When he asked her if she even noticed us following her she replied, “No”.
Davila says distracted driving can easily turn into reckless driving; texting while driving, messing with the GPS or radio dial; putting on makeup; eating while driving – all of which can end in disaster. He says he has seen all these actions result in a collision.
While Davila was wrapping up, he heard a noise and turned around to notice large pieces of wood in the right lane. He went into action to clear the obstruction.
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During my ride with officer Davila, we noticed just about every type of distracted driving, including a number of those exceeding the speed limit. Davila says because of the large volume of violators he must prioritize the traffic stops. He says the new SMPV’s are dedicated only to reckless driving infractions so that gives other patrol officers in the traditional black and white cars some needed relief on the roads.
During day two of my ride-along Officer Luis Quintero and his partner were called to a collision.
Key aspects of reckless driving in California, according the CHP and the DMV:
Misdemeanor Charge:
Reckless driving is a misdemeanor, not an infraction like a speeding ticket.
Penalties:
Conviction can result in:
- Up to 90 days in jail (minimum 5 days if sentenced to jail)
- Fines ranging from $145 to $1,000
- Two points on your driver's license
- Potential license suspension
- Increased car insurance rates
- Possible requirement to attend a driver's education course
"Willful or Wanton Disregard":
This means the driver is aware of the risk they are creating and chooses to drive that way.
Examples of Reckless Driving:
Speeding, drag racing, passing in a no-passing zone, driving under the influence (even if not charged with DUI), excessive speed, weaving in and out of traffic, running stop signs, and other dangerous maneuvers.
Consequences of Injury or Death:
If reckless driving results in injury or death, the penalties can be significantly more severe, potentially including longer jail or prison sentences.
Reporting Reckless Driving:
While there isn't a specific online database to report reckless driving, you can report it to the CHP or your local police department, providing details and license plate information.
For more information, click here.
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