A charge of careless driving involves an allegation that a person drove a motor vehicle, bicycle, or motorized bicycle in a careless and imprudent manner. In Colorado, careless driving is a criminal misdemeanor traffic offense and is applicable to both driving on public roadways, as well as private property. A person convicted of careless driving can face up to one year in jail and a one thousand dollar fine, if their driving "proximately" causes injury to another. If no injuries are involved, a conviction can land a person in jail for up to ninety days and a three hundred dollar fine. Additionally, a conviction will cause four points to be assessed against a person's driving record. For additional information regarding point totals requiring suspension, please see the practice area description entitled "traffic violations".

Reckless driving is a more severe charge than careless driving, and involves an allegation that one drove any motor vehicle, bicycle, or motorized bicycle without regard for the safety of persons or property. A conviction for reckless driving involves potential jail time of up to ninety days and a three hundred dollar fine, in addition to court costs. Upon notice of conviction for reckless driving, the Department of Motor Vehicles will asses eight points against a person's driver's license. Depending upon the number of points previously acquired by an individual and the classification of their license, a conviction for reckless driving could also result in the suspension of driving privileges.

A second or subsequent conviction for reckless driving carries an even more severe potential penalty of up to six months in jail and a one thousand dollar fine.

When you are facing careless or reckless driving charges, you need a professional, proactive, and experienced criminal traffic defense lawyer on your side. The Law Office of Monte J. Robbins, Esq., with offices located in Denver, and Greeley, Colorado, can provide you with the experience and knowledge that is critical in defending against these types of charges.

If you have been charged with either careless or reckless driving anywhere in the State of Colorado, call us immediately at 303-355-5148 or toll-free, statewide, at 1-888-DUI-COLO (1-888-384-2656) to discuss your options.