Often this crime is charged simply because someone is driving "too fast".  However, Tennessee law requires more than the officer simply saying a driver is going too fast.   The officer must have evidence that a driver is operating a motor vehicle in an unsafe manner.   

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A conviction for reckless driving can greatly increase insurance rates and will generally cause six points to be assessed to the driving record of a Tennessee driver.  Others states may treat this offense even harsher once it is reported to the home state of an out-of-state driver. However, a driver should consult with an an attorney in his or her home state to learn how a conviction in a Tennessee court will affect his or her driving privileges.