Careless driving in Florida is considered a civil traffic offense, and it involves negligence when operating a vehicle, potentially creating unsafe conditions on the road. Understanding your rights and seeking legal counsel is crucial to protect yourself during your case.
What Is Careless Driving?
Anyone operating a motor vehicle on the roads or highways of the state must drive it with caution and prudence, taking into account the road width, the grade, the curves, the corners, the traffic, and any other circumstances. This is to avoid putting the lives, limbs, or property of others at risk. Careless driving is a violation if you fail to drive this way.
Penalties for Careless Driving
Careless drivers will be cited for moving violations. First-time offenders may receive four points against their license and fines of up to $500. Depending on the circumstances, there can be additional civil penalties, such as a driver’s license suspension, an increase in insurance rates, or, in cases involving severe property damage, incarceration.
If You’re Injured in an Auto Accident with a Careless Driver
If you are injured in an auto accident and suspect negligence on the part of the other driver, consider taking the following steps:
- Document the time, date, and location of the accident.
- Collect information about the insurance of each driver involved and details about the other vehicle, including its make, model, and license plate number.
- Take photographs of the accident scene and any damage to the vehicles involved.
- Request a copy of the police report.
Additionally:
- Keep records of all expenses directly related to the accident, such as medical treatment costs, transportation expenses, or lost wages due to missed work.
- Contact a team of experienced attorneys to review your case. They can assess whether legal action is the best course of action and guide you on how to proceed. Auto accidents can be traumatizing, and experienced attorneys approach cases holistically to achieve the best possible outcome for their clients.
If you need legal assistance or have been involved in an auto accident with a careless driver, it’s important to consult with professionals who can help protect your rights and interests throughout the legal process.
This post was written by Kelly-Ann Jenkins of Jenkins Law P.L. Kelly-Ann is an insurance claims attorney. The information on this site is not intended to and does not offer legal advice, legal recommendations, or legal representation on any matter. Hiring an attorney is an important decision, which should not be based on advertising. You need to consult an attorney for legal advice regarding your situation.
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