Understanding DC Traffic Violations: Consequences & Stakes

Traffic violations in Washington DC carry a range of serious consequences that extend far beyond a simple fine, potentially impacting your driving record, insurance rates, and even your personal liberty. It is crucial to understand these multifaceted penalties, which are primarily governed by the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (DCMR) Title 18 and the D.C. Official Code Title 50, to grasp the full implications of a charge.

In my experience as a seasoned DC traffic lawyer, I’ve seen countless individuals underestimate the long-term repercussions of a traffic conviction. It’s not just about the immediate financial penalty. Every moving violation in Washington DC, from a basic speeding ticket to reckless driving, is assessed points by the DC Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Accumulating points leads to escalating penalties. For instance, obtaining 8 points within a two-year period results in a mandatory license suspension. If you reach 10 points, your license faces revocation. This system is designed to identify and penalize repeat offenders, but even a single serious violation can push you dangerously close to these thresholds.

Consider the financial impact. While the fine for a speeding ticket might seem manageable, a conviction often triggers a significant increase in your automobile insurance premiums. Insurers view traffic violations as indicators of increased risk, and these higher rates can last for several years, costing you far more than the original fine. For those who drive for a living—taxi drivers, delivery personnel, or rideshare operators—a traffic conviction, or especially a license suspension, can mean losing your livelihood. Similarly, professionals in fields requiring clean background checks or driving records may find their careers jeopardized.

Beyond administrative penalties and financial burdens, certain traffic offenses in Washington DC are considered criminal misdemeanors. Driving Under the Influence (DUI), reckless driving, or driving with a suspended license are not just tickets; they are criminal charges that can lead to arrest, jail time, substantial fines, mandatory probation, and a permanent criminal record. A criminal record can impact employment opportunities, housing applications, and even your ability to travel. For these charges, securing the services of a Washington DC traffic attorney is not merely advisable, it’s essential.

Furthermore, DCMR Title 18 specifically outlines the points assigned to various violations. For example, a speeding ticket might carry 2 or 3 points depending on the speed over the limit, while reckless driving is a 6-point offense. Understanding this system is vital. As a DC speeding ticket lawyer, I often emphasize that even seemingly minor infractions can contribute to a larger problem if they’re not properly addressed. Ignoring a traffic ticket is perhaps the gravest mistake, leading to default judgments, additional fines, license suspension, and even warrants for arrest. The stakes are undeniably high, demanding a proactive and informed approach.

Navigating the DC Legal Process for Traffic Cases

The legal process for traffic cases in Washington DC involves distinct administrative and judicial pathways, primarily overseen by the Superior Court of the District of Columbia and the DC Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Understanding each step, from initial citation to potential appeals, is critical for a favorable outcome.

From my years of practice, I’ve guided countless clients through the labyrinthine process of DC traffic law. When you receive a traffic ticket from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) or another enforcement agency, you typically have two main options: pay the ticket (admitting guilt) or challenge it. Choosing to challenge it initiates the formal legal process. For most moving violations, this means a hearing before the Traffic Court Division of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. Serious offenses like DUI or reckless driving, however, are handled through the criminal division of the Superior Court, often involving the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia as the prosecuting entity.

Upon receiving a citation, you will be given a specific date by which to respond. This response usually involves either paying the fine, requesting a hearing, or in some cases, providing proof of compliance (e.g., fixing a broken headlight). If you request a hearing, you will receive a notice for a court date. At this hearing, a hearing examiner or judge will preside. The ticketing officer may or may not be present, depending on the type of violation and whether it’s contested. Your DC traffic lawyer will present your defense, challenge the evidence, question the officer (if present), and present any mitigating factors. For a speeding ticket, for instance, this might involve questioning the radar calibration or the officer’s line of sight.

Beyond the court system, the DC DMV plays a critical administrative role. Even if you resolve your case in court, the DMV independently assesses points and manages your driving record. If you accumulate too many points, the DMV will initiate administrative action, which could include a notice of proposed suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. You have the right to request a separate administrative hearing with the DMV to contest these actions. This two-tiered system—judicial and administrative—is why addressing a traffic violation in Washington DC requires a holistic strategy that considers both court proceedings and DMV implications.

My advice as a seasoned Washington DC traffic attorney is always to be prepared. This means understanding the charges against you, gathering any relevant evidence (photos, witness statements, dashcam footage), and knowing the procedural rules of the Superior Court and the DMV. Whether you’re fighting a minor parking ticket or a serious criminal traffic offense, having a clear understanding of the roles of these key agencies and courts is paramount to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome.

The SRIS DC Traffic Case Prep Navigator Tool

The SRIS DC Traffic Case Prep Navigator is designed to empower you with a structured approach to gathering vital information and preparing for your traffic court appearance in Washington DC. This practical tool guides you through key steps to build a robust defense.

In my many years practicing as a DC traffic lawyer, I’ve observed that preparedness is often the single greatest factor in achieving a favorable outcome. Many people arrive in court feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to present. This tool is a direct response to that, providing a clear roadmap to ensure you don’t overlook critical details. It’s built on the collective experience gained from thousands of traffic cases handled by Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.

SRIS DC Traffic Case Prep Navigator: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Use this guide to systematically collect information and evidence before you even consider stepping into the Superior Court of the District of Columbia for your traffic matter.

1. Analyze Your Citation Thoroughly:
   • Step 1.1: Identify Key Information: What is the exact violation code (e.g., DCMR 18-2200 for speeding)? Date, time, and location of incident? Officer’s name and badge number?
   • Step 1.2: Note Discrepancies: Are there any errors on the ticket regarding your vehicle, your personal information, or the incident details? Even minor errors can sometimes be leveraged.
2. Gather Supporting Documentation & Evidence:
   • Step 2.1: Photographic Evidence: Did you take photos of the scene? This could include road conditions, signage (or lack thereof), traffic lights, visibility, or the position of your vehicle/the officer’s vehicle.
   • Step 2.2: Witness Information: Were there any passengers or bystanders? Obtain their contact information and a brief statement of what they observed.
   • Step 2.3: Vehicle Maintenance Records: If a mechanical issue is part of your defense (e.g., faulty speedometer for a speeding ticket), gather recent maintenance records.
   • Step 2.4: Dashcam/Bodycam Footage: Do you or the officer have relevant video footage? For an officer’s bodycam, your DC traffic lawyer can request this through discovery.
   • Step 2.5: Calibration Records: For speed-related offenses, the calibration records for the radar/laser gun used by the MPD officer might be relevant.
3. Review Relevant Statutes & Regulations:
   • Step 3.1: Consult DCMR Title 18: Understand the precise language of the regulation you are accused of violating. Does your conduct strictly align with the violation’s definition?
   • Step 3.2: Check D.C. Code Title 50: For more serious offenses, review the specific criminal statutes that apply.
4. Document Your Narrative:
   • Step 4.1: Write Down Your Account: Immediately after the incident, write a detailed, chronological account of what happened, including any conversations with the officer. Memory fades quickly.
   • Step 4.2: Note Contributing Factors: Were there extenuating circumstances like emergency vehicles, road hazards, or medical issues?
5. Understand Potential Penalties:
   • Step 5.1: Research Points: How many points does this specific violation carry with the DC DMV?
   • Step 5.2: Fines & Fees: What is the maximum fine for this offense? Are there additional court fees?
   • Step 5.3: License Implications: Could this lead to a suspension or revocation of your license? What are the implications for your insurance?
6. Prepare for Court Appearance (if self-representing) or Counsel Briefing:
   • Step 6.1: Organize Your Materials: Arrange all documents and evidence in a clear, logical manner.
   • Step 6.2: Dress Appropriately: Always present yourself respectfully in court.
   • Step 6.3: Practice Your Testimony: If you plan to testify, rehearse your narrative, focusing on clarity and factual accuracy.
7. Consider Legal Counsel:
   • Step 7.1: Seek a Confidential Case Review: Even with this tool, the nuances of law are best navigated by an experienced Washington DC traffic attorney. A lawyer can often identify defenses you might miss.
   • Step 7.2: Understand Attorney-Client Privilege: Discussing your case openly and honestly with your attorney is protected and crucial for effective representation.

Using the SRIS DC Traffic Case Prep Navigator will not only help organize your thoughts but also provide a solid foundation for your defense, whether you choose to represent yourself or, as is often advisable, partner with a knowledgeable DC speeding ticket lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.

Strategic Defenses Against DC Traffic Charges

Mounting a successful defense against DC traffic charges requires a comprehensive understanding of legal principles, procedural rules, and the specific facts of your case. Effective strategies often involve challenging the evidence, asserting factual defenses, or arguing legal technicalities to undermine the prosecution’s claims.

In my long career as a DC traffic lawyer, I’ve employed a variety of defense strategies, each tailored to the unique circumstances of a client’s situation. No two cases are identical, even if the violation seems similar. The approach to defending a speeding ticket in DC, for example, might differ significantly depending on whether the speed was measured by radar, laser, pacing, or aircraft, and whether there are any issues with the calibration of the equipment or the officer’s training.

One of the most common defense strategies involves challenging the credibility or accuracy of the prosecution’s evidence. For traffic camera violations, this could mean proving that the vehicle pictured is not yours, or that there were extenuating circumstances that prevented compliance (e.g., an emergency vehicle requiring you to enter an intersection). For officer-issued tickets, it might involve:

• Challenging Measurement Devices: Questioning the calibration, maintenance, or proper use of radar guns, lidar devices, or breathalyzers. Under DCMR Title 18, there are specific protocols for the use and calibration of these devices.
• Factual Disputes: Presenting evidence that contradicts the officer’s account—such as dashcam footage, witness testimony, or photographic evidence of road conditions, signage, or visibility that proves your actions were justified or the officer’s observations were flawed.
• Challenging Officer’s Observation: Arguing that the officer did not have a clear, unobstructed view, or that their estimation of speed or driving behavior was inaccurate.

Another potent defense lies in identifying procedural errors or constitutional violations. The police and the courts must adhere to specific rules and procedures. If these rules are not followed, it can lead to the dismissal of charges. For instance, in DUI cases, challenging the legality of the initial traffic stop, the administration of field sobriety tests, or the adherence to proper chain of custody for blood/breath samples are common avenues. Even in seemingly minor cases, if the ticketing officer fails to appear in court, or if proper notice wasn’t provided, your case may be dismissed.

For a DC speeding ticket lawyer, understanding the nuances of the D.C. Code § 50 and DCMR Title 18 is paramount. Sometimes, the violation cited by the officer doesn’t precisely match the alleged conduct. There might be a lesser included offense, or a defense arguing that your actions were necessary to avoid an accident. Mitigation is also a strategy; even if a conviction is likely, presenting compelling reasons for leniency (e.g., clean driving record, emergency circumstances) can sometimes result in reduced penalties or alternative dispositions.

Ultimately, a successful defense often involves a combination of these tactics. As your Washington DC traffic attorney, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. will thoroughly investigate the details of your case, identify the strongest possible defenses, and zealously advocate on your behalf to protect your driving record and minimize the impact on your life.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in DC Traffic Cases

Navigating a traffic charge in Washington DC can be fraught with pitfalls, and even seemingly small missteps can lead to significant, long-lasting consequences. Avoiding common mistakes is as crucial as building a strong defense, as these errors often undermine a case before it even reaches a hearing.

Drawing on two decades of experience as a DC traffic lawyer, I’ve observed recurring errors that cost people dearly. Being aware of these missteps can save you considerable time, money, and stress.

1. Ignoring the Ticket or Missing Deadlines: This is arguably the most common and damaging mistake. Failing to respond to a traffic ticket by the due date or missing a scheduled court hearing in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia will almost certainly result in a default judgment against you, additional fines, immediate points on your license, and an automatic license suspension by the DC DMV. In some cases, a bench warrant for your arrest may even be issued.
2. Paying the Fine Without Understanding the Consequences: Many people pay a traffic ticket simply to “make it go away.” However, paying the fine is an admission of guilt. This means points will be assessed against your license, your insurance premiums will likely increase, and for repeat offenders, it can lead to license suspension or revocation. Always assess the long-term impact before opting for the path of least resistance.
3. Admitting Guilt to the Officer or in Court: While honesty is valued, you are not obligated to incriminate yourself. Any statements you make to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officer at the scene, or even casual remarks in court, can be used against you. It’s always best to be polite but exercise your right to remain silent regarding the specifics of the alleged violation until you have consulted with a Washington DC traffic attorney.
4. Failing to Document the Scene or Gather Evidence: In the immediate aftermath of receiving a ticket, people often overlook gathering crucial evidence. Take photos of the location, road signs, traffic signals, road conditions, and any relevant details. Note down the time, weather, and anything you observed. Collect contact information for any witnesses. This proactive step can be invaluable to your defense, especially for a DC speeding ticket lawyer trying to reconstruct the events.
5. Not Understanding the Specific Statute or Your Rights: Assuming all traffic laws are straightforward is a mistake. Each violation under DCMR Title 18 and D.C. Code Title 50 has specific elements that the prosecution must prove. Without understanding these, you won’t know how to challenge the charges effectively. Similarly, knowing your rights—such as the right to confront your accuser (the officer) or the right to a fair hearing—is fundamental.
6. Underestimating the Severity of the Charge: Even a seemingly minor traffic violation can accumulate points that, when combined with prior infractions, lead to significant penalties. More serious charges like DUI carry criminal implications that can permanently impact your record and freedom. Treating any traffic charge lightly is a grave miscalculation.
7. Attempting to Handle Complex Cases Alone: While you have the right to represent yourself, complex traffic matters, especially those involving potential criminal charges or significant license suspension risks, are best handled by an experienced Washington DC traffic attorney. A lawyer possesses the legal knowledge, procedural insight, and negotiation skills to identify defenses you might miss and present your case effectively.

By avoiding these common errors, you significantly improve your chances of a more favorable outcome in your Washington DC traffic case. Always consider a confidential case review with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. to safeguard your interests.

Glossary of Key DC Traffic Law Terms

Understanding the specific terminology used in Washington DC traffic law is crucial for anyone facing a citation or navigating the court system. This glossary defines common terms you’ll encounter, providing clarity on their meaning and implications within the Superior Court of the District of Columbia and the DC DMV.

DCMR Title 18

The District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (DCMR) Title 18 specifically governs “Vehicles and Traffic.” This extensive body of regulations outlines all traffic laws, definitions of violations, speed limits, parking rules, and administrative procedures for motor vehicles within Washington DC. It is the primary reference for most traffic tickets.

D.C. Code Title 50

The District of Columbia Official Code (D.C. Code) Title 50 pertains to “Motor and Other Vehicles.” This section of the codified laws addresses more serious motor vehicle offenses, including criminal traffic charges like DUI/DWI, reckless driving, and driving without a valid license, alongside licensing and registration frameworks.

Points System (DC DMV)

An administrative system managed by the DC Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) where points are assessed against a driver’s record for moving violations. Accumulating a certain number of points within a specified period (e.g., 8 points in 2 years) can lead to administrative actions, including license suspension or revocation.

Plea Bargain

An agreement between the defendant (often through their Washington DC traffic attorney) and the prosecution or hearing examiner where the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser charge or a specific penalty in exchange for concessions, such as reduced points, lower fines, or avoiding more severe penalties.

Discovery

The legal process where opposing parties in a lawsuit or administrative hearing exchange information and evidence relevant to the case. In a traffic case, your DC traffic lawyer might request discovery of the officer’s notes, radar calibration records, or bodycam footage from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

Notice of Proposed Suspension/Revocation

A formal letter from the DC DMV informing a driver that their license is slated for suspension or revocation due to accumulated points, failure to pay fines, or other administrative infractions. This notice typically provides a deadline to request an administrative hearing to contest the action.

Mitigation

Presenting information or circumstances to the court or hearing examiner that, while not constituting a full defense, may explain the defendant’s actions or warrant a reduced penalty. Examples include a clean driving record, emergency circumstances, or completion of a defensive driving course.

Real-World DC Traffic Scenarios & Answers

In my extensive career as a DC traffic lawyer, I’ve encountered countless variations of traffic incidents. These realistic scenarios highlight common dilemmas faced by drivers in Washington DC and underscore the importance of understanding the legal nuances and seeking timely counsel.

Scenario 1: The Out-of-State Driver and the Red Light Camera

You’re visiting Washington DC from out of state and receive a notice of a red-light camera violation in the mail weeks later. You don’t have a DC license. Do you have to pay it? What are the consequences for your home state license?

Answer: Yes, you generally must pay the fine. While DC traffic camera tickets (under DCMR Title 18) are civil infractions and typically do not result in points on your out-of-state license directly, failure to pay can lead to serious consequences. The District can place a hold on your vehicle’s registration in DC, prevent you from renewing your DC driver’s license (if you ever get one), and, critically, can alert your home state’s DMV through interstate compacts (like the Driver License Compact). This notification could lead to your home state suspending your license for failing to pay a fine, even if no points are transferred. Always address these tickets, and a Washington DC traffic attorney can advise on potential reciprocal actions.

Scenario 2: Contesting a Speeding Ticket Based on Radar Error

You were issued a speeding ticket on the Capital Beltway within DC limits by an MPD officer using a radar gun. You believe you were not speeding and suspect the radar might have been inaccurate. What’s your next step?

Answer: Your immediate next step, after ensuring your safety and politeness with the officer, should be to document everything. Note the weather, road conditions, traffic density, and surroundings. If safe, take photos or video. Then, do not just pay the ticket. Request a hearing with the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. An experienced DC speeding ticket lawyer will often challenge the radar gun’s calibration records, the officer’s training, the environment (e.g., radar interference), or the methodology of the speed measurement. You can also present your own evidence, such as dashcam footage or witness accounts. This scenario is a prime example of when challenging the evidence is a viable defense strategy under the D.C. Code § 50.

Scenario 3: The DUI Arrest with Missing Evidence

You were pulled over in DC and arrested for DUI. You complied with field sobriety tests and a breathalyzer, but the officer did not read you your Miranda rights until after the breathalyzer, and you suspect there’s no bodycam footage of the stop or tests. What legal implications does this have?

Answer: This scenario presents several critical legal defense avenues for a Washington DC traffic attorney. While Miranda rights (the right to remain silent, right to an attorney) primarily apply to custodial interrogation regarding criminal charges, not initial traffic stops or routine questions, failing to read them at the appropriate time can lead to the suppression of any statements made thereafter. More importantly, the lack of bodycam footage, if standard procedure requires it, could be a significant issue for the prosecution, as it deprives them of visual evidence of your performance on field sobriety tests. Your attorney would likely file motions to suppress evidence based on procedural violations (e.g., illegal stop, improper test administration) and argue that the missing bodycam footage creates reasonable doubt, especially regarding the Metropolitan Police Department’s adherence to D.C. Code § 50-2206.01 governing DUI investigations. Each detail of the stop, arrest, and evidence collection is crucial in a DUI defense.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About DC Traffic Law

Over my more than 20 years of practice as a DC traffic lawyer, I’ve answered thousands of questions from clients about their traffic violations. This section addresses the most common inquiries, providing straightforward answers to help you navigate the complexities of traffic law in Washington DC.

Q1: What is the difference between a moving violation and a non-moving violation in DC?
A1: A moving violation (e.g., speeding, running a red light, improper lane change) occurs when your vehicle is in motion and typically results in points being assessed against your driver’s license by the DC DMV. Non-moving violations (e.g., parking tickets, expired tags, broken tail light without operation) generally do not result in points but still carry fines and potential registration holds.

Q2: How many points lead to a license suspension in Washington DC?
A2: In Washington DC, accumulating 8 points within a two-year period will result in a mandatory license suspension by the DC DMV. If you reach 10 points within the same period, your license will be revoked. Different violations, as per DCMR Title 18, carry different point values.

Q3: Can a DC traffic lawyer help me if I just received a parking ticket?
A3: While most parking tickets are handled administratively and do not involve points, a Washington DC traffic attorney can help contest them, especially if the ticket was issued in error, the signage was unclear, or you have compelling evidence to challenge the violation. For numerous tickets, a lawyer can also assist with consolidated appeals.

Q4: What should I do if I’m pulled over for suspicion of DUI in DC?
A4: Remain calm and polite. You must provide your license, registration, and proof of insurance. You have the right to remain silent regarding questions about alcohol consumption. While you can refuse field sobriety tests and preliminary breath tests, refusing a chemical test (breath, blood, or urine) after arrest can lead to automatic license suspension under DC’s implied consent laws, even if you are later found not guilty of DUI. Immediately contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for an experienced DUI defense lawyer.

Q5: How long do points stay on my DC driving record?
A5: Points assessed for traffic violations remain on your DC DMV driving record for two years from the date of the violation. However, the conviction itself and its associated details may remain visible on your record for a longer period, impacting insurance rates or background checks.

Q6: Is it worth hiring a DC speeding ticket lawyer for a minor speeding ticket?
A6: Absolutely. While a single minor speeding ticket might seem insignificant, the cumulative effect of points, potential insurance premium increases, and the risk of license suspension make it worthwhile. A knowledgeable DC speeding ticket lawyer can often get the charges reduced, points eliminated, or even the case dismissed, saving you money and protecting your driving record in the long run.

Q7: What happens if I miss my court date for a traffic violation in DC?
A7: Missing your court date at the Superior Court of the District of Columbia will typically result in a default judgment being entered against you, meaning you are found guilty by default. This leads to additional fines, points on your license, and almost certainly a license suspension by the DC DMV. In some cases, a bench warrant for your arrest may also be issued. Always appear or ensure your attorney appears on your behalf.

Q8: Can I appeal a traffic court decision in DC?
A8: Yes, you generally have the right to appeal a decision from the Traffic Court Division of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. The appeals process is complex and has strict deadlines. An appeal usually focuses on errors of law or procedure, not simply disagreeing with the factual findings. Consulting with a Washington DC traffic attorney immediately after an unfavorable ruling is crucial.

Q9: How do out-of-state traffic violations affect my DC license?
A9: Washington DC is part of the Driver License Compact (DLC) and the Non-Resident Violator Compact (NRVC). This means that serious moving violations committed in other compact states will likely be reported to the DC DMV, and points may be assessed against your DC license as if the violation occurred in DC. Non-payment of fines in other states can also lead to suspension of your DC license. It’s vital to address out-of-state tickets promptly.

Q10: What is implied consent in DC traffic law?
A10: Implied consent, outlined in D.C. Code § 50, means that by operating a motor vehicle on DC public roadways, you automatically consent to a chemical test (breath, blood, or urine) if lawfully arrested for DUI/DWI. Refusal to submit to such a test, even if you’re not ultimately convicted of DUI, can result in an automatic, separate license suspension by the DC DMV for a specified period (e.g., one year for a first refusal).

Q11: Can traffic school reduce points on my DC license?
A11: The DC DMV has a driver improvement program. Completing an approved defensive driving course may allow you to receive a credit of points on your driving record. However, this is typically allowed only once within a certain period, and specific eligibility criteria apply. It’s not an automatic right after every violation.

Q12: What should I do if my DC driver’s license is suspended?
A12: If your DC license is suspended by the DC DMV, immediately cease driving. Driving on a suspended license is a serious criminal offense under D.C. Code § 50 that can result in arrest, significant fines, and jail time. Contact a Washington DC traffic attorney to understand the reasons for the suspension and explore options for reinstatement or petitioning for a restricted license (if applicable).

Q13: How does a commercial driver’s license (CDL) holder get treated differently for traffic violations in DC?
A13: CDL holders face much harsher penalties for traffic violations in Washington DC. Even minor infractions can lead to CDL disqualification, which directly impacts their livelihood. Points accumulate faster, and certain offenses can result in immediate disqualification. The stakes are significantly higher, making legal representation from a seasoned DC traffic lawyer absolutely critical for CDL holders.

Q14: What constitutes reckless driving in Washington DC?
A14: Reckless driving in DC, as per D.C. Code § 50–2201.04, is defined as driving any vehicle in “a wilful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” This is a criminal misdemeanor offense, carrying significant fines, up to 90 days in jail for a first offense, and 6 points on your driving record. Examples include excessive speeding, weaving in and out of traffic dangerously, or aggressive driving behaviors that demonstrate an extreme disregard for safety.