Careless driving vs reckless driving

If you’ve ever been on the road and wondered about the difference between careless driving vs reckless driving, you’re not alone. Many drivers in Missouri get confused about these two traffic violations, but understanding them is crucial, especially if you’ve been in a car accident. At Burger Law, we’ve helped countless clients navigate the legal consequences of these charges, and we’re here to clarify what each one means and how they could impact you.

Is Careless Driving the Same as Reckless Driving?

No, they are not the same. Both careless and reckless driving involve unsafe driving behavior. The difference lies in intent by the driver and degree of negligence: careless driving is usually inadvertent; reckless driving is a willful disregard for safety.
Reckless driving or careless and imprudent driving is a serious affair in Missouri. There is a statewide toll-free hotline for reporting reckless behavior to the Missouri Highway Patrol. According to Missouri Law, reckless drivers could face steep fines, license suspension, or even time in jail as punishment.

Understanding Careless Driving

Careless driving occurs when a person drives without proper caution. It is usually attributed to acts that are not meant to be hazardous but still put other drivers in jeopardy.

Key factors in careless driving include:

• Failing to yield the right of way
• Tailgating another vehicle
• Driving too fast for road conditions
• Driving while distracted, such as texting or eating

Careless driving, in Missouri, can cost a person fines, points on one’s license, and a rise in insurance rates. Although it’s seen as a less severe offense than reckless driving, it can still have serious consequences if you cause an accident.

Definition of Reckless Driving + Key Factors

Reckless driving, on the other hand, is much more serious. It involves deliberate actions that show a complete disregard for safety, not only to one’s self but for others using the roadways.

Key factors for this form of driving would include:

• Speeding well above the posted limit
• Running through red lights or stop signs
• Aggressive behaviors, such as road rage
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Reckless driving can be punishable with heavy sentences such as license suspension or even imprisonment. In Missouri, a large number of points linked with reckless driving on a driving record will lead to the suspension of the license and other penalties.

“I’ve dedicated my entire life to helping our clients receive full compensation for their injuries.”

Gary Burger

Personal Injury Attorney

Examples of Careless and Reckless Driving

It’s helpful to consider some real-life examples to appreciate the difference that exists:

• Careless Driving: A driver drifts into another lane while adjusting his radio, which causes a minor fender bender.
• Reckless Driving: A driver speeds through a school zone, weaving between cars and ignoring stop signs.

In both scenarios, there is an accident, yet the legal consequence is worlds apart depending on whether the action was careless or reckless.

Differences in Legal Consequences

The sentences for careless and reckless driving in Missouri are different:

• Penalties for Careless Driving: Almost always includes fines, points on your driving record, and possible increases in insurance rates.
• Penalties for Reckless Driving: Much more serious; larger fines, license suspension, and even time in jail are possible.

The state courts in Missouri take reckless driving very seriously. If someone is injured or property is damaged due to reckless behavior, the driver could face additional civil liability in a personal injury lawsuit.

What to Do in Both Cases if You Are Involved

If you are involved in a car accident due to the reckless or careless driving of another person, here’s what you should do:

1. Stop at the scene and secure safety: See whether anybody needs any kind of medical attention.
2. Call the police: This is especially important in most suspected reckless driving cases because an official report will be needed.
3. Gather your evidence: Take photos of the scene, damages, and any important road signs.
4. Contact an attorney: A car accident attorney can walk you through the process and help you protect your rights.

Even if you are not sure whether the behavior was careless or reckless, seeking a lawyer will be important in understanding what it means for your case.

Get Help from a Car Accident Lawyer in St. Louis

At Burger Law, we understand how confusing careless driving versus reckless driving can be after a car accident. Let our experienced attorneys guide you through the legal process and fight on your behalf for just compensation. If you have been in an accident in St. Louis, contact us today at (314) 500-HURT for a free consultation.

Gary Burger

Founder | Injury Attorney
Gary Burger has dedicated his career to standing up against bullies. The founder and principal attorney of Burger Law | St. Louis Personal Injury Lawyer has helped hundreds of Missouri and Illinois individuals and families recover th …
Years of experience: 30 years
Location: St. Louis, MO

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