Driving a car, truck, or van in Denver without attention to your surroundings can lead to a ticket for careless driving. In a day and age where many are distracted behind the wheel, one mistake can result in significant penalties. With the many road construction projects currently in full swing in Colorado, drivers could face an accusation of careless driving in those zones as well. Consult a skilled careless driving lawyer today if you've received a ticket involving this traffic crime.

Colorado's Careless Driving Law | CRS 42-4-1402

Careless driving is addressed in C.R.S. 42-4-1402:

“A person who drives a motor vehicle, bicycle, electrical assisted bicycle, or low-power scooter in a careless and imprudent manner, without due regard for the width, grade, curves, corners, traffic, and use of the streets and highways and all other attendant circumstances, is guilty of careless driving.”

Driving that puts others at risk often results in a careless driving charge in Denver. Doing something like speeding and causing an accident is a common example of careless driving in Colorado. The difference between careless driving and reckless driving is important. Contact an experienced careless driving lawyer who can analyze which more accurately applies to your case.

Will I Go to Jail for Careless Driving in Denver?

The consequences for a careless driving conviction in Denver often hinge on whether or not there were injuries. When no injuries result, a class 2 traffic misdemeanor applies. This can lead to:

• 10 – 90 days in county jail,
• up to $300 in fines

When injury occurs due to careless driving, a class 1 traffic misdemeanor can result. This increases the county jail maximum to one year and amplifies the fines to up to $1,000. Additionally, 4 points are added to the defendant's driving record if they were operating a car, truck, or van.

Denver's Traffic Lawyer

Forming a strong defense to careless driving accusations is possible. It is especially important to involve a strategic attorney early on in the process. Perhaps you weren't driving carelessly, you weren't actually the driver, or your driving didn't cause another's injury. Nonetheless, contact our office for a free initial consultation. We offer affordable fees and also flexible payment plans for those facing accusations throughout the state of Colorado.

So, if you or someone you know is facing careless driving allegations in Colorado, be smart. Contact the experienced attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-830-0880. Together, we can protect your future.

Photo by Jantine Doornbos