PITTSBURGH CARELESS DRIVING ATTORNEY

The traffic offense of Careless Driving carries 3 points on your driver's license and a fine ranging from $25 to $200. Under Section 3714 of the PA Motor Vehicle Code, a person commits a careless driving offense when they drive a vehicle in careless disregard for the safety of persons or property. To prove careless disregard, the Commonwealth must establish that you demonstrated more than ordinary negligence, or in other words, more than the mere absence of care under the circumstances. However, unlike a Reckless Driving citation, the Commonwealth does not need to establish that your conduct was willful or wanton.

CARELESS DRIVING CAUSING DEATH OR SERIOUS BODILY INJURY

If convicted of Careless Driving causing Death or Serious Bodily Injury under Sections 3714(b) or (c), you will face a mandatory 90-day license suspension. Careless Driving offenses under Section 3714(a) do not carry a license suspension unless you cross the 6 or 11 point thresholds.

WHY AM I CHARGED WITH CARELESS DRIVING?

Careless driving is typically charged in conjunction with another violation of the motor vehicle code. For example, if you are cited with speeding, roadways laned for traffic, following too closely, or driving at safe speed, you may also find that you've received a second ticket for careless driving. Aggressive drivers may also be cited for careless driving.

Furthermore, if you were involved in a minor car accident, don't be surprised if you receive a careless driving citation in the mail.

DO I NEED AN ATTORNEY?

If convicted of careless driving, you will receive 3 points, fines, and the citation will become part of your driving record, which is accessible by insurance companies when they renew your auto insurance policy.

When fighting a careless driving ticket, you must remember that the officer who cited you is a trained, professional witness with many hours of experience testifying in courtrooms. Without a firm understanding of the rules of evidence and case law governing careless driving prosecutions, along with prior experience cross examining police officers, you take a substantial risk when you represent yourself.

If you intend on fighting your careless driving ticket, you are best served hiring a qualified traffic ticket defense attorney to assist with representation.

HOW ZUCKERMAN LAW FIRM CAN HELP

At Zuckerman Law Firm, our goal in each and every traffic case is simple: eliminate points and license suspensions while reducing fines. In fighting for the most favorable results, we prepare for your summary trial while working behind the scenes to negotiate the best possible resolution of your case. We can review your driving history, research case law, prepare cross-examination questions, and negotiate directly with the police officer on your behalf.

If you are charged with careless driving, get a professional on your side. Call Zuckerman Law Firm today at 412-447-5580.