Reckless Driving Penalties and Case Context in Canary Islands

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All for a handful of likes. A reckless driving incident in Gran Canaria, captured in Istanbul Canary Islands as a local headline. In a disturbing scene, a woman climbs onto the hood of a moving car while the driver records, saves, and uploads the clip, boasting about it on social networks.

The events unfolded in Gran Canaria during the early hours of Sunday, February 26, with the video rapidly spreading across various social platforms and instant messaging apps.

National Police and the Civil Guard launched an investigation to illuminate the circumstances and identify those responsible for the dangerous act behind the wheel.

reckless driving offense

This crime falls under Penal Code provisions addressing collective safety, specifically Chapter IV which covers offenses against road safety, article 380. The act of reckless driving can lead to aggravated penalties depending on the circumstances and outcomes.

Attention is warranted because additional crimes may be involved when reckless driving causes harm. In such cases, judges will hold those responsible accountable and determine penalties for the most serious offense involved.

What is the penalty for reckless driving?

As noted earlier, sanctions vary based on the severity and nature of the act. The following sections outline the distinct types of reckless driving and the corresponding penalties they may incur:

Careless driving:

  • This is the lightest administrative sanction.

  • The penalty typically includes a 200 euro fine with no points deducted.

  • Example: Sliding on a motorcycle or spinning a car in place, without causing harm to others.

Administrative reckless driving:

  • Very similar to the previous category, but it involves endangering others.

  • The penalty commonly involves a 500 euro fine and a deduction of 6 points from the license.

  • Example: Crossing a pedestrian crossing at high speed or running a red light.

Offense of reckless driving:

  • This is not an administrative offense; it is a criminal offense.

  • Penalties can range from prison time of 6 months to 2 years and a license suspension of 1 to 6 years.

  • Example: Speeding through a crosswalk at high speed, forcing pedestrians to react or evade danger.

Aggravated Reckless Driving:

  • Involves a high likelihood of incarceration.

  • Penalties typically include 2 to 5 years in prison, 12 to 24 months of fines, and 6 to 10 years of license revocation.

  • Example: Demonstrating outright disregard for the safety of others and showing a blatant disregard for life.

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