Careless & Reckless Driving

A charge of careless driving involves an allegation that a person drove a motor vehicle, bicycle, or motorized bicycle in a careless and imprudent manner. In Colorado, careless driving is a criminal misdemeanor traffic offense and is applicable to both driving on public roadways and private property.

Careless driving is generally issued by the police after an accident has occurred, even if only one car was involved. A person convicted of careless driving can face up to one year in jail and a one thousand dollar fine, if their driving causes injury to another. If no injuries are involved, a conviction can land a person in jail for up to ninety days and a three hundred dollar fine. Additionally, a conviction will cause four points to be assessed against a person’s driving record.

Reckless driving is a more severe charge than careless driving, and involves an allegation that one drove any motorized vehicle without regard for the safety of persons or property. A conviction for reckless driving involves potential jail time of up to ninety days and a three hundred dollar fine, in addition to court costs. A reckless driving ticket conviction results in eight points against a person’s driver’s license. Depending upon the license classification and points accumulated, a conviction for reckless driving could also result in the suspension of driving privileges. A second or subsequent conviction for reckless driving carries an even more severe potential penalty of up to six months in jail and a one thousand dollar fine. A conviction for reckless driving is considered to be a habitual traffic strike.

For additional information regarding point totals requiring suspension and habitual traffic strikes, please see our traffic tickets page or contact us to set up a consultation to discuss your individual situation.

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