Colorado Careless Driving Defense Lawyer

Careless driving is one of the most common traffic charges in Colorado — but its consequences can be far more serious than most people realize. A conviction can affect your license, your insurance, your finances, and even your freedom.

I’ve defended clients charged with careless driving across Colorado for more than 20 years. Whether your case is a simple careless ticket or one of the enhanced charges with much higher stakes, I’ll fight to protect your rights and your future.

What Is Careless Driving in Colorado?

Under Colorado law, careless driving means driving “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.”

It’s broader than reckless driving — and often charged when an officer believes your driving fell short of reckless but was still unsafe.

Penalties for Careless Driving

• Points: 4 points on your driving record
• Fines: Up to several hundred dollars (varies by jurisdiction)
• Jail: Possible in county or municipal court, though not always imposed
• Insurance: Expect premium hikes or possible cancellation

Even a “basic” careless ticket can trigger a license suspension if combined with other points.

When Careless Driving Is More Serious

Careless driving becomes far more serious if prosecutors allege it caused injury, death, or involved a vulnerable road user. These enhanced offenses carry heavier penalties — including mandatory jail, license suspension, restitution, and lifelong consequences.

Learn more about each:

• 👉 Careless Driving Causing Bodily Injury
• 👉 Careless Driving Causing Death
• 👉 Careless Driving Involving a Vulnerable Road User

Careless vs. Reckless Driving in Colorado

Many clients ask: “What’s the difference between careless driving and reckless driving?”

• Careless Driving: Driving without proper regard for the conditions. It does not require proof that you intended to disregard safety — just that you failed to use proper care. (4 points, lower fines/jail, unless enhanced).
• Reckless Driving: Driving in a manner that knowingly disregards the safety of others or property. It’s considered more serious and carries 8 points on your license, higher penalties, and is a habitual traffic offender strike.

👉 Learn more: Colorado Reckless Driving Defense

Defending Careless Driving Charges

Defenses often focus on:

• Challenging the facts: Was your driving truly “careless” under the law?
• Causation: Did your driving actually cause the alleged accident or injury?
• Officer discretion: Careless is a judgment call — and can be challenged.
• Mitigation: Even where evidence is strong, showing your background, clean driving history, or proactive steps can influence the outcome.

Why Experience Matters

I’ve seen careless driving cases handled very differently depending on the county, court division, and judge. With over 20 years of defense experience, I know how to tailor the defense to the circumstances — and how to position your case for the best possible resolution.

Call for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been charged with careless driving — whether it’s a ticket, an injury case, or something more serious — don’t try to navigate it alone.

Call me, Monte Robbins, at 303-355-5148 for a free consultation. I’ll personally review your case and explain your options.