Careless Driving Offences in QLD - driving a motor vehicle requires a person to pay a certain amount of attention, suitable to the speed & conditions in which they find themselves. Careless driving, in QLD, is when you drive a motor vehicle either: without due care & attention; or without reasonable consideration for others. The test is objective, not subjective; & the test is a measure of what the driver in question did against what a reasonable, driver taking appropriate care in all the circumstances would have done. The penalty for careless driving is a maximum of $4,000, or 6 months’ imprisonment. A careless driving charge will therefore be heard in the Magistrates Court. Generally, the Court will lean towards issuing a fine rather than prison time, although no guarantees. In addition to these penalties, the Court has a discretion to disqualify you from driving for one month or more. Because of the range of penalties & the potentially significant disqualification options, it’s a good idea to get traffic lawyers involved early.
Dangerous driving is a more significant charge than careless driving. It carries higher penalties such as 10 years imprisonment or 14 years for more aggravated features & is one of the more serious charges involving use of a motor vehicle i. It’s very important to ensure that you seek legal advice from traffic lawyers before giving police a statement. Your conduct & statements in response to a police enquiry could make a significant difference.
