You may have heard careless driving also referred to by the slightly more formal term ‘driving without due care and attention’.
This offence applies when a driver’s behaviour on the road is not up to the expected standard of a driver that is competent and careful.
In this mini guide, we will hone in on examples of driving without due care and attention. What kind of behaviour might trigger such a charge? And what could happen if you’re convicted?
Examples of driving without due care and attention
There are several categories of poor driving that fit the description of driving without due care and attention:
Aggressive driving
Aggressive driving encompasses outlawed manoeuvres such as tailgating and weaving through traffic, or simply driving in an intimidating manner. When a driver’s conduct becomes overbearing, reckless or intimidating, this offence may apply.
Distracted driving
Distracted driving covers circumstances when a driver becomes distracted by something, taking their focus away from the road. This might be using a phone (either talking or using an app), adjusting the radio, setting a sat-nav system, eating, or interacting with passengers.
Ignoring signals and signs
If a driver fails to indicate, skips traffic lights, neglects to give way when required, or doesn’t comply with road signs – this may be an offence under ignoring signals and signs.
Poor lane discipline
Poor lane discipline refers to driving behaviour such as ‘lane hogging’, drifting between lanes, or driving slowly in the outside or middle lanes and preventing others from overtaking.
Mistakes and errors
There are cases of human error that can constitute driving without due care and attention. This might be poor decision making, a sudden loss of concentration, or misjudging a turn.
Driving when unwell or tired
If a driver takes to the road despite feeling tired, unwell, or being impaired by alcohol, medication, or recreational drugs, this may also amount to lacking due care and attention.
What’s the penalty for driving without due care and attention?
If you are convicted of careless driving in the UK – this offence is commonly marked as endorsement code CD10 – the sanctions will vary depending on the seriousness of the offence.
Potential penalties range from licence points to a fixed penalty, driving disqualification and even criminal charges under separate legislation.
A small mistake, distraction or simple human error can lead to serious consequences under UK motoring law. Seeking legal advice from a leading death by careless driving solicitor, such as Auriga Advocates can help you to understand the law and build a strong case in your defence.