Careless and dangerous driving

Careless driving falls below the minimum standard expected of a careful driver and includes driving without reasonable consideration for other road users. Dangerous driving includes behaviour that could potentially endanger yourself or other drivers. If you drive in a careless or dangerous way you risk prosecution.

Careless and dangerous driving – the law

It is illegal to drive or ride a vehicle dangerously on the road or without due care and attention or reasonable consideration for other road users.

You could be breaking the law if, while driving or riding, you are guilty of any of the following behaviours:

Careless behaviour

tailgating
failing to look properly
sudden braking
overtaking on the inside
turning into the path of another driver
having your attention diverted by a distraction inside the car, for example, using a mobile phone
having your attention diverted by a distraction outside the car, for example, 'rubber necking'

Dangerous behaviour

racing, going too fast, or driving aggressively
ignoring traffic lights, road signs or warnings from passengers
overtaking dangerously
driving under the influence of drink or drugs, including prescription drugs
driving while unfit including: having an injury, being unable to see clearly, not taking required prescribed drugs or being fatigued
driving whilst knowing the vehicle has a dangerous fault or an unsafe load
driving whilst distracted by, for example, reading a map, using a hand-held phone, lighting a cigarette

Read the Highway Code for more information.

The penalties

In Northern Ireland, if you’re caught driving or riding without due care and attention or reasonable consideration for other road users you could get an automatic fixed penalty notice – three penalty points and a fine of £100. Serious careless driving offences will continue to go to court.

If your case goes to court and you are convicted of careless or dangerous driving you will risk:

Types of penalties	Careless driving	Dangerous driving
Fine	Up to £5,000	Unlimited
Penalty points	Between three and nine	Between three and 11
Disqualification	Yes	Yes
Imprisonment	No	Yes

What to do next

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Careless and dangerous driving