How is reckless driving defined under Montana law?

Reckless driving in Montana is defined as driving with a willful disregard for the safety of persons or property. This means that the driver knowingly puts others at risk through their behavior, which demonstrates a conscious choice to ignore the potential dangers involved in their driving actions. The emphasis on "willful disregard" indicates that it is not merely a matter of poor driving decisions or mistakes, but rather an intentional choice to engage in dangerous behavior.

Other options refer to different violations. Driving under the influence involves operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs, which is a serious offense but does not capture the specific nature of reckless driving. Driving without a valid license is a legal infraction related to the legality of operating a vehicle, while speeding in residential areas is a specific traffic violation that can be dangerous but does not inherently encompass the broader and more serious behavior indicated by reckless driving definitions.