Careless Driving vs. Reckless Driving in Oregon: What’s the difference?
Careless Driving and Reckless Driving are two different traffic offenses in Oregon, each carrying different legal implications and penalties. The key difference is that Carlee’s driving is a violation and reckless driving is a crime. Understanding the differences between the two can help you navigate your case more effectively.
Careless Driving (ORS 811.135)
Careless Driving generally occurs when a driver operates a vehicle in a manner that endangers the safety of persons or property. Key points include:
Lack of Intent: Careless driving does not require proof that the driver intended to endanger others.
Examples: Common examples include speeding, failing to yield the right of way, distracted driving (e.g., using a mobile phone), and ignoring traffic signals and signs.
Penalties: Typically classified as a traffic violation, penalties can include fines, traffic school, and a suspension in serious cases.
Reckless Driving (ORS 811.140)
Reckless Driving is a more severe offense and involves a higher degree of risk and potential harm. Key points include:
Conscious Disregard: Reckless driving generally requires proof that the driver acted with a conscious disregard for the safety of persons or property.
Examples: This can include excessive speeding, aggressive driving behaviors, racing on public roads, and other actions that show a willful disregard for safety.
Penalties: Classified as a Class A misdemeanor, penalties can include higher fines, jail time, potential license suspension, and a significant impact on your driving record.
Key Differences
Intent: Careless driving is unintentional endangerment, while reckless driving involves a conscious decision to disregard safety.
Severity: Reckless driving is considered more serious and carries harsher penalties compared to careless driving.
Legal Classification: Careless driving is a traffic violation, whereas reckless driving is a more serious misdemeanor offense.
Our Approach to Careless Driving Defense
At The Kind Law Group, LLC, we take a comprehensive and strategic approach to defend our clients against careless driving charges. Generally, our attorneys may use ORS 810.410 to challenge the citation, which generally notes that an officer must observe the offense or receive reliable information about the events leading to the violation.
Contact Us for Careless Driving Defense
If you've been charged with careless driving in Oregon, don't navigate the legal system alone. The Kind Law Group, LLC, is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can attempt in reducing or dismissing your charges.
How to Send Us Your Traffic Ticket
Step 1: Snap a clear photo of your traffic ticket.
Step 2: Open your messaging app on your phone.
Step 3: Start a new message and type in our number: 503-765-5794 or 503-714-5344.
Step 4: Attach the photo of your traffic ticket.
Step 5: Hit send!
Once we receive your ticket, one of our attorneys will review it and reach out with the next steps and pricing details.
We Proudly Represent All Oregon Counties
We proudly represent all Oregon counties, including Baker County, Benton County, Clackamas County, Clatsop County, Columbia County, Coos County, Crook County, Curry County, Deschutes County, Douglas County, Gilliam County, Grant County, Harney County, Hood River County, Jackson County, Jefferson County, Josephine County, Klamath County, Lake County, Lane County, Lincoln County, Linn County, Malheur County, Marion County, Morrow County, Multnomah County, Polk County, Sherman County, Tillamook County, Umatilla County, Union County, Wallowa County, Wasco County, Washington County, Wheeler County, and Yamhill County. With countless tickets and court appearances under our belt, we are very experienced in navigating the complexities of traffic law.
Disclaimer: Sending us your traffic ticket and any related information does not create an attorney-client relationship. An attorney-client relationship is only established after you have signed a retainer agreement with our firm.
