Careless driving
Careless driving is driving without due care and attention, without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road and falling below the standard of a reasonably competent driver.
How our careless driving solicitors can help
Our specialist motoring offence solicitors focus on defending clients accused of careless driving. If you believe you have grounds to contest the accusation or have mitigating circumstances, consulting a solicitor is crucial. Many assume they must accept the punishment, including fines, points on their license, or disqualification, but this isn’t always true. With our extensive experience and deep understanding of motoring law, we provide high level representation and have a track record of achieving positive results for our clients.
Many accusations of careless driving or driving without due care and attention can be effectively defended. Our expert motoring offence solicitors meticulously analyse prosecution evidence to pinpoint weaknesses and present a robust factual defence, demonstrating that the alleged driving behaviour did not occur as claimed.
Speak to one of our expert motoring law solicitors now – call 01245 343971 or email drivingenq@gepp.co.uk.
What is careless driving?
Examples of dangerous driving:
- Overtaking on the inside
- Driving too close to another vehicle
- Driving through a red light by mistake
- Driving in the path of another vehicle
- Unnecessary slow driving or braking
- Dazzling other drivers with headlights
Should you be found guilty of careless driving you could receive a fine of £100 and 3 penalty points. However, in more serious cases the court could impose a more serious penalty including a disqualification which is always discretionary in cases dealing with this charge.
Careless driving FAQs
What is considered careless driving?
Careless driving, also known as driving without due care and attention, refers to operating a vehicle without proper consideration for others on the road. This can include actions such as tailgating, distracted driving (e.g. using a mobile phone), or failing to yield right of way.
What are the consequences of careless driving?
The consequences of careless driving can vary depending on the severity of the offence. Penalties may include fines, points on the driving license, driving education courses, or even a driving ban in serious cases.
How is careless driving different from dangerous driving?
While both careless and dangerous driving involve actions that compromise road safety, the key difference lies in the level of risk posed. Careless driving involves a lack of proper attention or consideration, while dangerous driving involves a deliberate disregard for safety, posing a significant risk to others.
Can I defend myself against charges of careless driving?
Yes, you have the right to defend yourself against charges of careless driving. A qualified solicitor can help build a defence strategy, which may involve challenging the evidence, proving mitigating circumstances, or arguing for a lesser charge.
What factors determine if driving is careless?
Several factors can contribute to determining if driving is careless, including the driver’s behaviour, road conditions, weather conditions, and the impact on other road users. The court will consider these factors to assess the severity of the offence.
Can careless driving lead to a driving ban?
In some cases, particularly if the offence is serious or results in a collision causing injury or death, careless driving can lead to a driving ban. However, penalties typically depend on the circumstances of the individual case.
What should I do if charged with careless driving?
If charged with careless driving, it’s essential to seek legal advice from a qualified solicitor as soon as possible. They can assess your case, explain your legal rights, and guide you through the legal process.
Is careless driving a criminal offence?
Careless driving whilst by some may be considered a traffic offence it is a criminal offence. It is taken seriously by authorities due to its potential impact on road safety. Convictions for careless driving can result in penalties and affect insurance premiums.
Get in touch
Speak to one of our expert motoring law solicitors now – call 01245 343971 or email drivingenq@gepp.co.uk.
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