Careless Driving

Careless driving or driving without due care and attention is defined as any driving which falls below the standard of a reasonable and prudent driver.

It is important that you get solid and good advice at the outset.

Examples of careless driving could include failing to stop in time because you were changing a CD, lighting a cigarette, reading a map at the time you were driving or failing to give way. A mere momentary lapse in concentration can amount to careless driving

Inconsiderate Driving is similar to careless driving but slightly different as this relates to road traffic behaviour that has inconvenienced other drivers such as tailgating, flashing your headlights or generally intimidating another driver.

The Prosecution often rely on accident investigators or expert witnesses. At Cunninghams our team of solicitors and barristers have many years of experience in defending such cases and we have access to a network of expert witnesses to rebut the evidence of the Prosecution. Examples include instructing road accident consultants who can prepare reconstruction reports and comment on the Prosecution evidence to try and establish doubt in respect of the Prosecution case.

Punishment of Careless Driving
Driving without due care is a lesser charge than dangerous driving and comes with a punishment of three to nine penalty points, discretionary disqualification and a fine of up to £2500. Obviously, this will affect your insurance premium if you are convicted.

Cunningham’s strong legal team will present the best possible mitigation in your circumstances if you are convicted to try and reduce the severity of the punishment.

In our experience the best way to discuss and consider any defence of your case is to telephone us on our freephone number 0800 32 888 46. Our telephones are manned by driving defence experts throughout the day, evening and weekends including bank and public holidays.

If you wish to contact us via e-mail, please complete the online enquiry form and we will contact you immediately.

Death by Careless Driving
Recently, the government has drafted new legislation, which includes a new charge of causing death by careless driving. Effectively, any death that arises as a consequence of a road traffic accident could attract this new offence. This is not in force yet.

Punishment of Death by Careless Driving
The punishment for causing death by careless driving will range from a community order to an imprisonable offence of up to three years.

In our experience the best way to discuss and consider any defence of your case is to telephone us on our freephone number 0800 32 888 46. Our telephones are manned by driving defence experts throughout the day, evening and weekends including bank and public holidays.

If you wish to contact us via e-mail, please complete the online enquiry form and we will contact you immediately.