Careless Driving / Causing Death By Careless Driving
What is Careless Driving?
If the police believe that your driving has fallen below the standard expected of a reasonable and competent driver, you may find yourself charged with the offence of driving without due care and attention (aka. careless driving).
Examples of what might be considered careless driving may include:
- Speeding
- Eating or smoking while driving
- Overtaking when not permitted
- Tailgating another driver
There is no fixed list of what may be considered careless driving, and it will depend on the circumstances of each case.
What should you do if Charged with Careless Driving?
You should get advice from a motoring lawyer straight away. They will be able to:
- Advise on whether you have any defences
- Liaise with the prosecution regarding the appropriateness of the charge
- Represent you at trial
- Instruct expert witnesses on your behalf if required (eg: collision investigators, technical engineers, etc)
- Advise on whether your driving was dangerous or careless
What are the Penalties?
- The offence of careless driving can carry penalty points, a fine, and a discretionary disqualification.
- The offence of causing death by careless driving carries an obligatory disqualification and up to 5 years imprisonment.
