What constitutes reckless driving in Illinois?

Reckless driving in Illinois is defined primarily by the behavior of the driver, specifically the willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. This means that the driver is knowingly taking actions that can lead to dangerous situations, showing a flagrant indifference to the potential consequences of their driving.

This definition is critical because it focuses on the intent and decision-making of the driver, rather than just a specific behavior, such as exceeding the speed limit or being distracted. Other behaviors, such as driving over the speed limit, driving while distracted, or ignoring traffic signals, can be dangerous and may lead to accidents, but they do not inherently capture the broader context of recklessness. Recklessness involves a conscious choice to ignore the safety of others, which is a crucial element for the legal definition in Illinois.