Careless Driving in Colorado

Careless driving is one of the most common traffic offenses in Colorado — but that doesn’t mean it’s minor. A careless driving conviction can have lasting consequences for your license, your insurance rates, and in some cases, even your freedom.

What Is Careless Driving?

Under Colorado law, careless driving means operating a motor vehicle in a careless or imprudent manner, without due regard for the width, grade, curves, corners, traffic, and use of the road. Unlike reckless driving, careless driving does not require proof that you intentionally disregarded safety — but prosecutors often file it when they believe your driving fell below what a reasonably careful person would do.

Penalties for Careless Driving

The penalties depend on whether the offense caused injury:

• No injury: Class 2 misdemeanor traffic offense, punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a fine up to $300, and 4 points on your driver’s license.
• With injury or death: Elevated to a Class 1 misdemeanor traffic offense, punishable by up to 1 year in jail, a fine up to $1,000, and 4 points on your license.

But the consequences don’t stop there:

• Insurance premiums: A careless driving conviction can dramatically increase your insurance rates for years — often costing more than the court fines themselves.
• CDL holders: For commercial drivers, even one careless driving conviction can threaten your job. Protecting your record is critical if you rely on your license for your livelihood.

How I Defend Careless Driving Charges

Every careless driving case is different, but common defense strategies include:

• Challenging the officer’s observations or conclusions about your driving
• Investigating whether conditions such as weather, road hazards, or another driver’s actions contributed to the incident
• Negotiating for reduced charges or alternative resolutions that protect your license and insurance rates

With over 20 years of experience, I know how to dissect a careless driving charge and fight for the best possible outcome.

Careless vs. Reckless Driving

Careless driving is often charged when prosecutors believe your driving was negligent but not deliberate. If the state claims you acted willfully and wantonly, you may be facing a reckless driving charge instead — which carries harsher penalties and 8 license points. Learn more here: Reckless Driving Defense in Colorado.

Get Help Today

Don’t dismiss a careless driving charge as “just a ticket.” The hidden costs — from insurance hikes to employment issues — can follow you for years.

Call me, Monte Robbins, at 303-355-5148 today for a free case evaluation. I’ll personally review your situation and help you fight to protect your license, your record, and your future.