Careless Driving
A Careless Driving charge occurs when you fail to pay proper attention or take reasonable care when driving a motor vehicle. Penalties can include fines, demerit point and loss of licence.
Need an experienced criminal lawyer in Ballarat?
If you’ve been charged with a criminal offence, received a summons to attend court, been arrested by Victoria Police, or need urgent legal advice, obtaining early legal representation can make a significant difference to how your matter progresses.
At Wilkinson Lawyers, we practise exclusively in criminal law matters across Victoria. We regularly appear at the Ballarat Magistrates’ Court, County Court and other metropolitan and regional courts.
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Talk To An Experienced Criminal Lawyer
Being charged with a criminal offence is stressful. Many clients contact us after what they describe as the worst day of their life. They are worried about losing their licence, their employment, their reputation, or even their liberty. Our role is to guide you through the legal process, explain your options in plain English, protect your rights and work towards the best available outcome based on the facts of your case.
Whether you intend to plead guilty or contest the allegations, obtaining legal advice as early as possible is one of the most important steps you can take.
Get in direct contact with Jessica Wilkinson now, and receive expert advice on how to deal with your case
Do I have a defence?
Examples of Careless Driving include having an accident, not keeping a proper distance, failing to keep a lookout, driving too fast for the conditions.
Police don’t need to prove your intention to drive carelessly but they do need to prove that you drove without the proper level of care. This is often a factual dispute about what occurred.
For those caught driving carelessly, you will receive a fine. You cannot go to jail for this offence. You will also receive 3 demerit points which could affect your licence with VicRoads.
Depending on the seriousness of the circumstances, a Magistrate may also decide to suspend your licence, but this is optional.
Do I need a lawyer?
You are not legally required to have a lawyer.
However, criminal proceedings involve rules of evidence, legislation, court procedure and sentencing principles that most people have never encountered.
A lawyer can assist by:
- Explaining the allegations.
- Reviewing the prosecution brief.
- Identifying weaknesses in the evidence.
- Negotiating with police where appropriate.
- Preparing your plea.
- Representing you in court.
- Advising whether a charge should be contested.
- Protecting your legal rights throughout the process.
Even where the allegations appear straightforward, obtaining legal advice can significantly improve your understanding of the options available.
Talk To An Experienced Criminal Lawyer
Get in direct contact with Jess now, and receive expert advice on how to deal with your situation