If reckless driving causes the death of another person, it is a serious crime (often a felony depending on the specific circumstances and related charges like DUI).
Attempting to flee law enforcement while driving recklessly can lead to felony eluding charges. Penalties for Reckless Driving is reckless driving a felony in oklahoma
Under Oklahoma Statute §47-11-901 , reckless driving is defined as operating a motor vehicle in a "careless or wanton manner" without regard for the safety of people or property. Key elements of the crime include: If reckless driving causes the death of another
Many people make the mistake of pleading guilty to a first-time reckless driving charge just to "get it over with," not realizing they are creating a criminal record. If they ever face a similar charge in the future, that prior "minor" misdemeanor turns the new charge into a felony. Key elements of the crime include: Many people
As of November 2025, certain behaviors combined with impairment—like excessive speeding or causing a crash while under the influence—can be charged as a felony.
Standard reckless driving (47 O.S. § 11-901) is always a misdemeanor. However, if the reckless behavior escalates into more severe crimes, you could face felony charges such as: