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

Read about Missouri’s careless and imprudent driving laws and the consequences of a conviction.

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.

Defend your rights. We've helped 95 clients find attorneys today.
First Name is required
Continue
First Name is required
Continue
DEFEND YOUR RIGHTS
Talk to a Defense attorney
We've helped 95 clients find attorneys today.
There was a problem with the submission. Please refresh the page and try again
Full Name is required
Email is required
Please enter a valid Email
Phone Number is required
Please enter a valid Phone Number
Zip Code is required
Please add a valid Zip Code
Please enter a valid Case Description
Description is required

How It Works

  1. Briefly tell us about your case
  2. Provide your contact information
  3. Choose attorneys to contact you