What constitutes reckless driving in Indiana?

Reckless driving in Indiana is defined as operating a vehicle with a willful disregard for the safety of persons or property. This means that the driver is consciously aware of the risks involved in their actions and chooses to proceed anyway, showing a lack of concern for the potential consequences. This could involve a variety of dangerous driving behaviors, such as weaving in and out of traffic, aggressive driving, or other actions that clearly demonstrate a disregard for the safety of others.

Indiana law emphasizes the intention behind the actions of the driver, focusing on a conscious choice to engage in risky behavior rather than simply following traffic-related rules. While activities like texting while driving or ignoring speed limits may relate to unsafe driving conduct, they do not inherently indicate a willful disregard for safety, which is a critical element in defining reckless driving. Additionally, driving without a valid license, while illegal, does not fall under the category of reckless driving if no other unsafe behavior is involved.