Careless Driving

Careless driving is considered one of the most serious traffic violations under Alberta’s Traffic Safety Act. It is classified as a strict liability offence, which means prosecutors do not need to prove that you intended to drive carelessly—only that your actions met the definition of the offence.

A careless driving conviction carries significant consequences, including:

• Penalty: $567 – $2,000 fine

• Demerits: 6 points

• Insurance Impact: Premiums comparable to those of an impaired driving conviction

• Additional Risks: In certain cases, drivers may also face license suspension or even jail time