Missouri's Careless and Imprudent (Reckless) Driving Laws and Penalties

Unlike most other states, Missouri doesn't have a law that prohibits "reckless" driving. The closest analog is Missouri's careless and imprudent driving law. That law requires motorists to:

• drive in a "careful and prudent manner"
• drive at a rate of speed so as not to endanger the person or property of another, and
• "exercise the highest degree of care."

Of course, violations of this law can occur in a variety of different circumstances—basically, in any situation where a person is driving unsafely.

Careless and Imprudent Driving Penalties

The consequences of a careless and imprudent driving conviction depend on the circumstances. But generally, the possible penalties are:

• Careless and imprudent driving. Generally, careless and imprudent driving is a class B misdemeanor. Convicted motorists face up to six months in jail and a maximum $1,000 in fines.
• Careless and imprudent driving involving an accident. Careless and imprudent driving offenses that involve an accident (collision) are class A misdemeanors. A conviction carries up to a year in jail and a maximum $2,000 in fines.

A careless and imprudent driving violation will also add four demerit points to the motorist's driving record.

Careless and Imprudent Driving and DWI Charges ("Wet Reckless")

In some states, it's possible for a driver who's charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) to plea bargain for a lesser charge. When a DWI is plea bargained down to a reckless driving charge, it's sometimes called a "wet reckless."

Missouri law doesn't restrict plea bargaining in DWI cases. So it's possible—though maybe unlikely—for a person who's charged with driving while intoxicated to plea bargain for a careless and imprudent driving charge.

Talk to an Attorney

The consequences of a reckless driving conviction in Missouri can be serious, especially when the offense involved an accident. If you've been arrested for or charged with reckless driving, get in contact with an experienced criminal defense attorney. A qualified attorney can explain how the law applies to the facts of your case and help you decide on how best to handle your situation.