Laws regarding reckless driving charges vary from state to state—including the name of the offense and its definition. This offense may also be known as reckless operation of a motor vehicle or driving to endanger—but generally requires that the government (prosecution) prove the driver was willfully operating a motor vehicle in a way that showed indifference to the safety of persons or property.

And in some states certain driving behavior may be considered reckless driving per se (pronounced pur-Say)—which is reckless driving by definition or “on its face.” For example, if a driver is driving more than 30 miles per hour over the speed limit or is engaged in street racing, the driver may be charged with reckless driving per se, and the prosecutor will not be required to prove any other elements of the reckless driving offense, as such behavior is reckless driving by definition—with the definition being provided by the state legislature in the traffic code.

As with many traffic violations, the officer issuing the citation and the prosecutor have significant discretion in determining whether there was a violation of a traffic law and whether the violation constitutes a certain offense, as defined by the state legislature in the traffic code or in a municipal ordinance.

This discretion to issue a ticket or citation and prosecute the charge against the driver is balanced by the discretion of the jury or judge in determining whether the prosecution met its burden of proof sufficient to convict the driver (for a criminal offense) or find the driver responsible (for a civil infraction, violation, or offense).

In Missouri, reckless driving is addressed under Missouri Revised Statutes Section 304.012 and 304.010, which define it as driving a vehicle in a manner that indicates a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. This can include actions such as excessive speeding, aggressive driving, or other dangerous maneuvers. Missouri law does not specifically define 'reckless driving per se' based on certain behaviors like exceeding the speed limit by a specific amount or street racing. However, such behaviors could still be considered evidence of reckless driving. The burden of proof lies with the prosecution to show that the driver's actions fit the definition of reckless driving. Law enforcement officers have the discretion to issue citations for traffic violations, and prosecutors decide whether to bring charges. Ultimately, a judge or jury determines if the prosecution has met its burden of proof to convict the driver of a criminal offense or find them responsible for a civil infraction.