Although careless and reckless driving sound similar, they had differences when it comes to the law. If you are ever cited for either, you must understand exactly what the difference is. Action Legal Group will help you determine what careless driving vs reckless driving is.

What is Careless Driving?

Careless driving means that the driver wasn’t intentionally trying to cause harm. However, the driver is still irresponsibly operating the car and could potentially cause danger.

In the eyes of the law, careless driving isn’t as severe as reckless driving. A few examples of careless driving could be running a red light, not stopping at a stop sign, or forgetting to use a turn signal.

Speeding is also considered careless driving. If you are speeding 20 mph over the limit, you may be cited for careless driving. But, if you get into an accident while speeding, it’s considered reckless. Speeding was a factor in 26% of all traffic fatalities in 2019, killing 9,478, or an average of over 25 people per day.

Penalties for Careless Driving:

• Pay a fine
• Receive points to your license
• Attend driving school

What is Reckless Driving?

Reckless driving is much more severe. Driving recklessly is classified as the driver intentionally harming another driver and ultimately putting someone in danger. Reckless drivers are deemed as “willful or wanton disregard” for human life and the safety of others on the road.

A few examples of reckless driving are drag racing, driving under the influence, or driving on the sidewalk. Additionally, distracted driving is also a part of reckless driving. Distracted driving includes texting, eating and drinking, or even changing the radio.

Penalties for Reckless Driving:

• Large fines
• Points on your license
• Jail time

Action Legal Group wants to inform you of the difference between careless driving vs reckless driving. If you have been in an accident, we can support you. If you or a loved one were injured by a distracted driver, the most important thing you can do is focus on your recovery. To fully focus, you need to be sure that a personal injury attorney you trust is handling your compensation claims. Though saving money might be your first instinct, now is not the time to bargain shop or look for ways to cut corners. Cut-rate personal injury attorneys offer cut-rate services. And the last thing you want is an attorney that treats your case like merely another email in their inbox. You need someone who cares.

Contact the Action Legal Group attorneys today to find out more about what we can do for you.