What Is Careless And Imprudent Driving

In Missouri, traffic laws are designed to promote safety and ensure responsible driving on the roads. However, despite these efforts, some drivers engage in behaviors that endanger themselves, others, and the general public. Two such behaviors are careless and imprudent driving. While both terms often appear in traffic citations or legal discussions, many drivers may not fully understand what they mean and how they can impact their driving record or legal standing. In this blog post, we’ll break down the definitions of careless and imprudent driving in Missouri, their legal consequences, and the steps you can take to avoid these violations.



Under Missouri law, careless driving refers to operating a vehicle in a manner that shows a lack of concern for the safety of others. The Missouri statute governing careless driving is Section 304.010 of the Missouri Revised Statutes. Careless driving is considered a class B misdemeanor, and while it might sound like a minor violation, it can still lead to serious penalties.

Examples of careless driving include:

• Failing to yield the right-of-way at an intersection

• Running red lights or stop signs

• Swerving between lanes without signaling

• Failing to maintain control of the vehicle



Careless driving doesn’t necessarily mean that a driver intended to harm others. Rather, it describes behavior that is reckless or neglectful in a way that puts others in danger. If a driver is cited for careless driving, the offense typically carries a fine, and in some cases, points may be added to their driving record. Accumulating too many points can lead to suspension or revocation of driving privileges.



Imprudent driving is another term used in Missouri traffic law, specifically under Section 304.012 of the Missouri Revised Statutes. This refers to driving in a way that is not careful or safe based on the circumstances, even if the driver did not intend to harm anyone. Imprudent driving is often described as a more serious form of negligence.

A driver may be charged with imprudent driving if they:

• Fail to adjust their speed to road conditions (e.g., speeding in heavy rain or snow)

• Drive too fast for conditions, even if the speed limit is not exceeded

• Ignore road signs that are meant to indicate dangerous conditions

• Make unsafe turns or lane changes that could potentially lead to a collision

In Missouri, imprudent driving can lead to fines, points on your license, or even jail time in extreme cases. More importantly, if your imprudent driving results in an accident or injury, you may face civil liability and be required to compensate victims for medical expenses, property damage, or pain and suffering.



While both careless and imprudent driving describe irresponsible driving behaviors, the key difference is often the degree of negligence and the context of the action. Here’s a breakdown:

• Careless driving generally refers to actions that demonstrate a lack of attention to safety or awareness, often resulting in violations like running red lights, failing to stop at stop signs, or engaging in reckless maneuvers.

• Imprudent driving typically involves behavior that disregards safe driving practices under specific conditions, such as driving too fast for weather or road conditions, or failing to adjust your driving when circumstances change.
  

Both offenses can lead to serious legal consequences, especially if the driving behavior leads to an accident. However, the term "imprudent" may imply a more serious disregard for safety than "careless."



If you are ticketed for either careless or imprudent driving in Missouri, the potential consequences include:

1. Fines: These violations may carry fines, which vary depending on the severity of the offense.
2. Points on Your License: In Missouri, accumulating too many points on your driving record can lead to license suspension or revocation. Each of these violations may add points to your record.
3. Increased Insurance Rates: Traffic violations can cause your car insurance premiums to rise. Insurance companies may view a history of careless or imprudent driving as a sign of risk.
4. Jail Time (in extreme cases): Although typically misdemeanors, certain circumstances (e.g., a fatal accident) could lead to more serious criminal charges, including jail time.



Careless and imprudent driving are serious offenses that can result in fines, points on your record, and higher insurance premiums. If you are facing a careless or imprudent driving charge, it is important to consult with an experienced traffic attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights. If you have been ticketed or involved in an accident due to careless or imprudent driving, feel free to reach out to our office for a consultation. Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC has over ten years of experience in criminal defense. We’re here to help you understand your legal options and ensure your best possible outcome.