Careless Driving in Minnesota: What You Need to Know

Careless driving is a common traffic offense in Minnesota that can have significant consequences for your driving record and insurance premiums. Under Minnesota Statute 169.13, careless driving is classified as a misdemeanor, which means you could face up to 90 days in jail, a $1,000 fine, or both. If you’ve been charged with careless driving, it’s important to understand what constitutes this offense and how to handle the situation.

What is Careless Driving in Minnesota?

Minnesota law defines careless driving as operating or halting a vehicle in a way that disregards the rights of others or endangers people or property. This broad definition covers a range of behaviors that fall short of reckless driving but still pose a threat. Careless driving may include:

• Driving in a manner that endangers others: This could involve swerving, failing to signal, or other conduct that is likely to harm others on the road.
• Endangering property: Careless driving isn’t limited to people—it also applies to situations where driving conduct puts property at risk.

In addition to general motorists, Minnesota law also applies these standards to light rail transit drivers.

Can You Be Charged with Careless Driving for Speeding?

Yes, you can be charged with careless driving for speeding, especially if your speed creates a potential danger. While it’s rare for speeds under 100 miles per hour to result in a careless driving charge, law enforcement can issue this citation alongside a speeding ticket if they believe your speed endangers others or property.

It’s worth noting that many prosecutors hesitate to pursue these cases aggressively, especially if the right legal representation is involved. That’s because officers—not attorneys—often make the initial decision to issue the charge, and they may lack the legal insight that a prosecutor or defense attorney would have.

Should You Plea a DWI to a Careless Driving Charge?

In some cases, a careless driving plea may be offered as an alternative to a DWI conviction. This is more common when there’s a low blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or an evidentiary issue that makes the DWI harder to prove. However, it’s crucial to approach these situations with caution.

• Evidentiary Issues: If the prosecution has weak evidence, they may offer a careless driving plea, but it’s important to ensure that the prosecution can’t prove either charge before accepting the plea.
• Implied Consent Issues: Even if you plead to careless driving, this will not remove any implied consent markings on your driver’s license that may have resulted from the DWI arrest.

Impact on Your Driving Record and Insurance

A Careless Driving MN conviction will create a mark on your driving record, which can increase your insurance premiums. The conviction can stay on your record for up to five years, leading to long-term financial consequences. With the help of an attorney, many drivers are able to avoid these negative outcomes by negotiating for a lesser charge or even diversion programs.

Do You Need to Go to Court for a Careless Driving Charge?

Careless driving is often issued as a payable citation, which may seem like a minor ticket. However, paying the fine without going to court creates a criminal record. This is why it’s important to consult an attorney before paying a careless driving ticket.

In many cases, an attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charge to a petty misdemeanor, such as speeding, or even pursue a diversionary outcome like a stay of adjudication, which avoids a conviction entirely.

Closing Thoughts

Careless driving may seem like a minor offense, but it can lead to a criminal record and higher insurance premiums. If you’ve been charged, it’s essential to contact an attorney who can help minimize the impact. Shek Law specializes in helping clients resolve careless driving charges through negotiations, plea reductions, or dismissals. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your options.