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What is the difference between careless and reckless driving?
Is careless driving the same thing as reckless driving? We just learned about both of them in driver’s ed and I’m really confused about how they’re different. Are they just two different names for the same thing?
Liz Jenson · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
It’s totally understandable that you’re confused since careless and reckless driving are similar types of violations. The main difference between careless and reckless driving is that careless driving is a traffic infraction, while reckless driving is a criminal offense.
This is because reckless driving involves a willful disregard for the lives, safety, and property of others. Careless driving, on the other hand, is driving in an imprudent or negligent way without a willful disregard for others.
Reckless driving can lead to jail time, heavy fines, license suspension, or even a loss of driving privileges. Careless driving can lead to heavy fines or
points on your license
but you won’t get jail time for a careless driving charge.While you’re learning more about traffic infractions, why not learn about your insurance options too? The car insurance super app
Jerry
can find the best rates on the coverage you need in a matter of minutes. The average Jerry user saves $887 a year on car insurance!Hope this helps explain the difference between careless and reckless driving!
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- Gregory R.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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