Careless driving in Florida is a serious road issue. This behavior endangers everyone and often leads to accidents. But do you know the difference between careless and “aggressive” careless driving and how Florida law addresses it?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) identifies aggressive driving as the act of committing multiple traffic violations that put others or property at risk.
In this article, we’ll break down the legal implications of both offenses in Florida so you can better understand the consequences and know how to protect yourself if you ever face a traffic citation.
Keep reading for information on where to find the best Tampa traffic attorneys to assist with criminal charges or traffic tickets.
Understanding Careless Driving in Florida
Careless driving is a common traffic violation. According to Florida Statute 316.1925, careless driving occurs when drivers operate their vehicles without proper care and attention. This could mean:
- Speeding
- Failing to yield
- Driving too close to other vehicles
This law is designed to ensure that all drivers follow the rules of the road and drive in a manner that protects others.
What Constitutes “Aggressive” Careless Driving?
While careless driving can happen due to simple mistakes or distractions, “aggressive” careless driving goes a step further. This typically involves a pattern of dangerous behaviors, such as:
- Excessive speeding
- Tailgating
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Disregarding traffic signals
Florida driving laws do not have a specific statute for “aggressive” careless driving, but such behavior can lead to more severe penalties under existing laws. For example, if careless driving is combined with actions like road rage, it could result in charges of reckless driving or even assault with a motor vehicle.
Careless Driving Penalties in Florida
Penalties for careless driving in Florida vary based on the seriousness of the offense and whether it’s classified as standard careless driving or involves aggressive elements. For standard careless driving, penalties may include points on your license or fines.
This offense can add three points to your driving record, and fines can typically range from $160 to $500, depending on the county where the violation occurred. It can also include additional court costs.
Penalties for “Aggressive” Careless Driving
If careless driving is deemed aggressive, the penalties can be much harsher. You should be aware of the following:
- Aggressive driving often results in fines at the higher end of the spectrum
- They may add extra points to your license, increasing the risk of suspension
- In extreme cases, such as when aggressive driving leads to an accident or injury, you could face jail time
- Courts may require you to attend a defensive driving course or an anger management class
Legal Consequences of “Aggressive” Careless Driving
The difference between penalties and legal consequences lies in their scope and application. Legal consequences of “aggressive” careless driving in Florida can extend beyond just fines and points on your license. Depending on the circumstances, you could face more charges and penalties.
Reckless Driving Charges
If the court determines that your aggressive driving was reckless, you might face charges for reckless driving, which is a more serious offense. Simply put, reckless driving is risky behavior that disregards the safety of others.
A reckless driving conviction will be added to your criminal record, affecting employment opportunities, background checks, and your reputation.
Civil Liability
If your “aggressive” careless driving results in an accident, you could be held liable for damages in a civil lawsuit. This means you may have to pay for:
- Medical expenses
- Damage to property
- Other costs associated with the accident
Impact on Insurance
Another significant consequence is the impact on your auto insurance. Insurance companies view careless driving, especially if it’s aggressive, as a high-risk behavior. As a result, you can expect a substantial increase in your insurance premiums.
In certain situations, your insurance provider might even cancel your policy.
Defending Against a Careless Driving Citation
If you get a citation for careless driving in Florida, especially if it involves aggressive behavior, it’s important to take it seriously. The consequences can be severe, but there are ways to defend against the charges.
Consult With a Traffic Ticket Defense Lawyer
One of the first steps you should take is to consult with a knowledgeable traffic lawyer. They can help you:
- Understand the charges against you
- Review the evidence
- Develop a defense strategy
They may be able to argue that your driving behavior did not meet the legal standard for careless or aggressive driving, or they may negotiate with the court to reduce the penalties. Traffic attorneys can use several defenses in careless driving cases, such as:
- The prosecution must prove that you were driving carelessly, and if the evidence is insufficient, the charges may be dismissed
- Emergency situations could be a valid defense if you were driving aggressively due to an emergency (such as avoiding an accident)
- If you believe you were wrongly identified as the driver, you may be able to challenge the citation
How RHINO Lawyers Can Help
Our team specializes in criminal/traffic ticket defense and understands the complexities of Florida driving laws. We’ll work with you to build a strong defense and aim to minimize the impact of the charges on your life. Why Choose RHINO Lawyers?
- Our lawyers have extensive experience handling careless driving cases, including those involving aggressive behavior
- We tailor our defense strategies to each client’s unique situation, ensuring the best possible outcome
- RHINO Lawyers has a history of successfully defending clients against traffic violations in Florida
The Dangers of Careless Driving in Florida
“Aggressive” careless driving in Florida is a serious matter with major legal implications. Understanding driving violations and their potential penalties can help you avoid costly mistakes. Getting legal help from a knowledgeable traffic ticket defense lawyer is crucial if you face such a citation.
RHINO Lawyers is here to assist you in navigating Florida’s complex traffic laws and defending your rights. As Tampa’s leading auto injury and traffic attorneys, we are there when you need us. Get your free case evaluation from us today, and let us help you make the right decisions.
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RHINO Lawyers can help and guide you through a system molded by law enforcement, judges, and lawyers for decades. Having won cases for our clients in similar circumstances, our criminal defense team knows what it takes to fight on your behalf.
Let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at (844) RHINO-77.