Careless driving
About this charge
Careless driving is one of the heaviest provincial charges in Alberta: a fine of $852, six demerit points, and an insurance impact comparable to a criminal-level event. The Crown must prove that your driving fell below the standard of care a reasonable, prudent driver would observe, a lower and more flexible standard than the criminal “marked departure”, which is precisely why the charge is so often over-applied to what was, in truth, an ordinary collision or a momentary lapse. It is also frequently the charge to which a more serious matter can be reduced.
How we defend it
- Test whether the conduct actually meets the statutory standard
- Examine the collision reconstruction and the officer's basis for the charge
- Careless driving is almost always worth defending
At a glance
Related charges
SpeedingExcessive speeding (50 km/h or more over)Speeding in a construction, school, playground or emergency-responder zoneStunting and racingDistracted drivingRunning a red light or disobeying a traffic control deviceWhere we defend this
Calgary Courts CentreEdmonton Law CourtsRed DeerLethbridgeGrande PrairieWe appear at all 41 Alberta court locations. You need not attend.
Penalties are stated under Alberta's Traffic Safety Act, the Provincial Offences Procedure Act and, where applicable, the Criminal Code. Figures reflect the fine schedule in force from 13 March 2026 and are general information, not legal advice.
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