What is “Wet-Reckless” Driving?
Wet-Reckless driving is a plea bargain for a DWI/DUI defense where the defendant pleads guilty to a drinking and driving charge. In most situations, this is a deal available to first time offenders who are not accused of any additional charges, such as manslaughter, property damages, or enhanced BAC.
A wet-reckless conviction can still be accompanied with fines, community service, substance abuse classes, and other penalties. In many states, if a person is convicted of wet-reckless driving and then is found guilty of another DUI charge, it will be considered a second offense.
Only certain states accept deal deals, such as wet-reckless driving, is DWI/DUI cases. Other states don’t have specific laws against such deals therefore they may be accepted by a judge on a discretionary basis.
States With Wet-Reckless Pleas
These states accept wet-reckless driving and do not have anything in their laws prohibiting plea deals in drinking and driving cases. If granted a wet-reckless plea, it is likely that the penalties and punishments will be reduced. However, the charge will remain on a record and could affect any future DWI cases.
Florida | Nevada | South Dakota | New Hampshire |
California | North Carolina | Utah | |
Delaware | Ohio | Michigan |
States With No Statutes Prohibiting Wet-Reckless Pleas
These states do not explicitly prohibit or allow wet-reckless plea deals. That essentially means that a lawyer can make an appeal for a plea deal, but there is little to no indication on whether it will be effective. If wet-reckless is applied, it will reduce the sentencing of the case but stay on record as a drinking and driving charge.
Alaska | Oklahoma | Nebraska | Wyoming |
Colorado | Tennessee | North Dakota | Idaho |
Connecticut | Virginia | Rhode Island | Maryland |
District of Columbia | Wisconsin | Vermont | Louisiana |
Minnesota | Mississippi | Washington | Maine |
Montana | Missouri | West Virginia | Massachusetts |
States That Do Not Accept Wet-Reckless Pleas
These states do not recognize or accept wet-reckless as an alternative to a DWI/DUI charge. A lawyer would not be successful in attempting a plea bargain with the prosecutor.
Alabama | Illinois | New Jersey | South Carolina |
Arizona | Indiana | New Mexico | Texas |
Arkansas | Iowa | New York | |
Georgia | Kansas | Oregon | |
Hawaii | Kentucky | Pennsylvania |
If you’re in a state that accepts wet-reckless pleas and think your situation fits the circumstance that are outlined for this deal, contact a lawyer today. Find a lawyer that knows the details and laws around wet-reckless driving who can win your case.