Careless and imprudent driving is a misdemeanor in Missouri.
It is Missouri’s version of reckless driving. Officers often write it after an accident, or when they believe a driver wasn’t paying enough attention. A conviction means a criminal record entry and up to 4 points on your license.
Penalties
| Situation | Possible penalty |
|---|---|
| No accident | Class B misdemeanor (up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine) |
| Accident involved | Class A misdemeanor (up to 1 year in jail and a $2,000 fine) |
| Points on your record | 4 for a state charge, 2 for a city or county charge, plus 2 more if the court finds injury or property damage |
Jail is rare for a first careless and imprudent charge, but the conviction and points are real, and an accident case can also affect any civil claim against you.
What the state has to prove
Missouri law requires every driver to use the highest degree of care. The state has to show you didn’t, based on how you were driving, not just that an accident happened. Accidents happen to careful drivers too. Weather, road conditions and other drivers’ actions all matter.
How we handle these cases
- We get the accident report, any video and witness statements
- We look for gaps between what the officer saw and what the report claims
- We negotiate for a reduction to a lower-point or no-point violation
- When the facts support it, we take the case to trial
If you are a commercial driver, careless and imprudent can count as a serious traffic violation. See our page on CDL tickets.
Careless and imprudent driving FAQ
Is careless and imprudent the same as reckless driving?
It is Missouri’s closest equivalent. Other states use the term reckless driving.
Can it be reduced?
Often, yes. Prosecutors frequently agree to amend these charges, especially when no one was hurt and your record is clean.
Should I talk to the insurance company?
Talk to a lawyer first. Statements you give to an insurer can be used in the criminal case.
Talk to a St. Louis traffic lawyer
Send us a photo of your ticket and we’ll tell you what we can do, free. Call or text (314) 526-3779 or contact us online. See all the tickets we handle on our St. Louis traffic ticket lawyer page.
