Reckless driving in Michigan is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. If it causes serious impairment of a body function it is a felony with up to 5 years, and if it causes death it is a felony with up to 15 years. The charge is set by MCL 257.626.
Reviewed by Attorney Kevin Bessant, Law Office of Kevin Bessant & Associates. Last reviewed October 2026.
Reckless driving at a glance
| Base offense | Misdemeanor: up to 93 days in jail, a fine of up to $500, or both (MCL 257.626(2)) |
|---|---|
| Serious impairment of a body function | Felony: up to 5 years and a fine of $1,000 to $5,000 (MCL 257.626(3)) |
| Death of another person | Felony: up to 15 years and a fine of $2,500 to $10,000 (MCL 257.626(4)) |
| Related offenses | Reckless driving is often charged alongside, or reduced from, OWI. See first-offense OWI |
How does a reckless driving case move through court?
- Citation or arrest and arraignment in district court.
- Pretrial. Your lawyer requests crash reports, video, and witness statements.
- Felony cases include a preliminary examination and possible bindover to circuit court.
- Resolution by dismissal, reduction, plea, or trial.
What matters in the defense
- The standard. The prosecutor must prove the driving met the statute’s recklessness standard.
- Causation. In injury and death cases, whether your driving caused the harm.
- Evidence. Speed estimates, witness accounts, and video can be challenged.
- Negotiation. In some cases a lower charge can protect your license and record. See traffic ticket defense.
Related page: misdemeanor or felony offense.
Frequently asked questions
Is reckless driving a misdemeanor in Michigan?
Yes in the base case, with up to 93 days in jail and a fine of up to $500 under MCL 257.626(2).
When does reckless driving become a felony?
When it causes serious impairment of a body function (up to 5 years) or the death of another person (up to 15 years).
Talk to a Detroit traffic and criminal defense attorney
Call Attorney Kevin Bessant at 313-658-8159 for a free consultation.
Legal Authority
See MCL 257.626 in the Michigan Legislature’s text. This page is general information, not legal advice.