Introduction
Getting behind the wheel for the first time is exciting, especially for teenagers. But with freedom comes responsibility. In Missouri, something as simple as peeling out of a gas station or squealing your tires in a parking lot could land you in serious legal trouble under the law of “Careless and Imprudent Driving.”
If you’re a parent, a teen driver, or someone who just got a C&I ticket in Hannibal or nearby, this article will explain exactly what it means, what the risks are, and how to fight it.
What is Careless and Imprudent Driving in Missouri?
Under Missouri Revised Statute RSMo §304.012, drivers must operate their vehicles “in a careful and prudent manner.” If the driver does something that endangers any person or property, they can be charged with Careless and Imprudent Driving, or C&I.
This law is broad on purpose. Police and prosecutors use it when a driver’s behavior doesn’t fit neatly into another category like speeding or DUI, but is still dangerous.
Real-World Examples
Especially with teen drivers, C&I tickets often stem from behavior like:
- Peeling out or spinning tires when leaving a parking lot
- Squealing tires at a stoplight
- Driving too fast for conditions (rain, snow, gravel)
- Swerving in and out of lanes
- Racing friends through town
- Cutting corners in neighborhoods or near schools
Example:
A teenager in Hannibal spins out after school in the gravel lot behind the high school. He loses traction, swerves slightly, but no one is hurt. Police observe it and cite him for C&I. No drugs, no alcohol, no accident—but still, he’s facing a misdemeanor criminal charge.
What Can Happen if You’re Convicted?
1. Criminal Penalties
- Class B Misdemeanor (no accident): Up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine
- Class A Misdemeanor (if there’s an accident): Up to 1 year in jail and a $2,000 fine
2. Points on License
- Missouri will put 4 points on your driving record.
- If you get 8 points in 18 months, your license can be suspended.
- For new drivers or anyone under 21, it’s easier to lose your license.
3. Insurance Problems
- A C&I conviction will almost certainly raise your insurance premiums.
- For teen drivers, this could add hundreds of dollars a month.
4. A Record That Follows You
- A C&I stays on your Missouri record for at least 3 years.
- It could impact job applications, school admissions, and more.
Can You Fight a C&I Ticket? Yes.
An experienced traffic attorney can often reduce or even dismiss these charges.
Common Defense Strategies:
- The officer overreacted: The tires squealed, but no one was in danger.
- The road conditions caused it: Gravel, ice, or wet pavement can cause loss of traction.
- No proof of endangerment: Missouri law requires some risk to life or property.
- Dashcam footage or witnesses can tell a different story.
Other Possible Outcomes
1. Reduced Charge
- Your attorney may negotiate to reduce it to a non-moving violation, like “loud acceleration” or “vehicle nuisance.”
- This avoids points and keeps your record clean.
2. Suspended Imposition of Sentence (SIS)
- You plead guilty, but no conviction is entered if you complete probation.
- Usually 6 months to 2 years, with no new tickets allowed.
3. Deferred Prosecution
- The prosecutor holds the case open. If you stay out of trouble and maybe take a driving class, they dismiss it.
4. Driver Improvement Program (DIP)
- A judge may let you take a course to reduce or avoid points.
FAQs
Q: Will I lose my license for a C&I ticket?
A: Not immediately, but 4 points is a big deal—especially for new drivers. One more ticket could mean suspension.
Q: Will my parents be notified?
A: If you’re under 18, absolutely. The court may also require a parent to appear with you.
Q: Can this affect college or scholarships?
A: Some scholarships and schools ask about criminal history, even misdemeanors. It’s best to keep your record clean.
Q: Do I have to go to court?
A: Yes, unless your lawyer appears for you or gets the charge reduced without a court date.
Q: Can I get it expunged later?
A: Possibly. After several years and if you’ve had no other issues, you might be able to expunge the charge.
Conclusion: Don’t Risk Your Future
Peeling out might seem like a harmless show-off move, but Missouri law takes it seriously. One quick decision can lead to a permanent mark on your record, higher insurance, and major stress.
If you or your teenager has been charged with Careless and Imprudent Driving in Hannibal, Palmyra, or anywhere in Northeast Missouri, call a lawyer right away. At Bond Law Firm, LLC, we defend traffic tickets like this every week.
Call to Action
Contact Bond Law Firm, LLC Today
102 N. Main St., Palmyra, MO 63461 573-769-6155
eric@bondlawfirm.com
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