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Segalas Law Firm

The Segalas Law Firm - Matrimonial and Family Law Firm - Bergen, Essex, Morris and Passaic Counties, New Jersey

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    • Divorce & Family Law
      • Custody & Child Support
      • Domestic Violence
    • Mediation & Arbitration
    • Municipal Law & Criminal Law
      • DWI/DUI
      • Traffic Tickets
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Charged with Careless Driving? Here’s Why You May Want a Lawyer

Nearly 86% of drivers say that they believe it is safe to drive at least 10 miles per hour over the speed limit on highways, with many going much faster than that in practice. While it may sound like a minor infraction, in some cases even a speeding ticket may include a charge for careless driving. In either event, help from an attorney familiar with careless driving may be warranted. To help you understand the process a bit better here is what you need to know about what the law considers careless driving.

What is Careless Driving?

If you are given a citation for careless driving, the exact penalties vary from state to state. Generally, the term refers to failing to operate your vehicle in a safe manner. While careless driving is often unintentional, it can pose a danger to other drivers if it becomes a habit. For reference, the following actions depending on their severity can fall under careless driving, and may be motor vehicle offenses themselves.

  • Distracted driving
  • Holding a phone while driving
  • Illegally changing lanes
  • Speeding
  • Failing to signal
  • Failing to follow traffic signs/signals
  • Falling asleep at the wheel

In New Jersey, penalties for careless driving include a fine, and can include points, possible surcharges, and possible jail time. This is in addition to possible and significant insurance increases or surcharges. For cases found to be more serious, you may even be charged with reckless driving. Regardless of your driving record, having an experienced attorney for careless driving on your side can be a benefit.

Careless Driving VS Reckless Driving

Generally, most states have lesser penalties for careless driving and higher penalties for reckless driving. In some instances, a careless driving attorney may be able to get reckless driving charges lowered to careless if a plea deal is put forth, though this will be dependent on circumstances.

In many states, reckless driving includes as an element a “wanton disregard” for traffic laws, and it assumes a level of deliberate recklessness on the part of the driver. Penalties for this can range from a fine to even jail time depending on the case. For instance, if a death or injury occurred due to the reckless driving, the penalty would be more severe.

If alcohol or drugs are involved, you may also be charged with Driving While Intoxicated. If this is the case, hiring the best DWI attorney you can find is highly advisable.

Do You Need an Attorney for a Careless Driving Ticket?

If you have been charged with careless driving, you may not necessarily need a lawyer if the charges are minor. However, a motor vehicle offense attorney could work to lower the fines associated with speeding citations, or other low tier careless driving charges.

On the other hand, if your case involved property damage or injury, it is highly advised that you seek legal advice, either from an attorney who handles careless driving offenses, or a DWI lawyer if alcohol was involved. A lawyer will be able to identify a course of action to allow you to start putting your incident in the rearview mirror.

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CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

A true professional
September 29, 2018
A true professional, caring and compassionate - Steven handled a complicated emotional post-divorce matter for me with all of the expertise and grit you would expect from a top Family Law Attorney, but Steven also has a deep care and concern for his clients best interest as a whole long after the matter is settled that I am proud to say for anyone considering him for your matter you should meet him and see for yourself. I'm sure you will feel as confident as I did that he is a Top Choice Attorney.
- Anthony
Great Attorney
June 21, 2018
Steven Segalas truly cares for his clients. He is knowledgeable, kind and a great negotiator! Served as my attorney for a difficult child support case and handled challenges with ease. He’s the one to have on your side. Would highly recommend him.
- Luis
Great Attorney
February 13, 2018
He knows his business as an attorney and keeps you updated. He is not only an advocate in court but outside of it. I cannot recommend him enough.
- Anonymous
Professional and Supportive
July 17, 2015
I absolutely do not know where I would be without him. I went through a 3 year divorce where my ex-husband changed lawyers numerous times. Steven was on top of every single aspect of my case and was there for me every single step of the way, he even spent Valentine’s Day in mediation with me. In addition to handling the divorce, Steven also represented me in my Domestic Violence Case against my ex-husband and secured a FRO (formal restraining order). The trial revealed very personal, embarrassing and painful information. Steven was nothing but professional and supportive. If you are looking for an attorney, you will be in excellent hands with him. Even when you are at your worst, he will hand you a tissue and make you smile!
- Bonnie
Outstanding Family Law Attorney
March 27, 2015
Steven M. Segalas is an outstanding Family Law attorney. I have worked with Steven as an adversary on many cases. Steven is an expert on Family Law. He is always up to date on statutes, Rules of Court and case law which bears on the cases we have handled together. I respect Steven’s strong advocacy for his clients. Steven knows when to fight and when to compromise. This is the true sign of a great Family Law attorney.
- Faith
A Great Attorney
March 16, 2015
A great attorney handled my divorce. My divorce and subsequent child custody matters were quite involved. Mr. Segalas was thoughtful and helpful throughout the process. He employed some out of the box thinking that allowed me to continue to have healthcare for myself and my children during a very trying time in my life. I always felt protected in court. Mr. Segalas was always ready to respond to whatever allegation was made in my direction from opposing counsel. I was very happy with his service.
- Anonymous
Fast-precise-no BS
March 10, 2015
Steve worked his magic to saved me from the X….Saved me thousands! Fast-precise-no BS. I would use Steve without second thoughts knowing you will be in the best of care & guidance!
- Mark
Great Attorney
February 27, 2014
My attorney makes ME a priority. He always explains the legal divorce process in terms that I can understand; and he has the ability to answer all of my divorce questions. The office is well-staffed for the follow up. My attorney has a team of lawyers and legal assistants trained to guide me through the divorce process and fight for my best interests. My attorney always presents a clear plan which includes all steps of divorce, information I need to gather, and a fee schedule. My attorney raise other issues I had not thought of yet that could have significant ramifications for the short-term and long-term success of my divorce. I go with my attorney who addresses my fears and concerns; exudes confidence and feels like a good fit for me ????
- Mark
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(201) 212-6523
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HILLSDALE

80 Broadway, Suite 101
Hillsdale, NJ 07642
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1600 Route 208 North
Hawthorne, NJ 07507
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DISCLAIMER

The material presented on this website is intended for general information purposes only and is not offered, nor should be construed, as legal advice on any specific matter or circumstance. No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court of New Jersey. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. The information contained in this website is not intended to create, and receipt of it does not constitute, a lawyer-client relationship nor is it intended to substitute for the advice of an attorney. This website constitutes Attorney Advertising.

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