Careless Driving Charges in Iowa

Attorney Eric D. Puryearby Attorney Eric D. Puryear

The Iowa code defines the crime of careless driving as the crime that a person commits careless driving if the person intentionally operates a motor vehicle on a public road or highway in any one of the following ways:

  1. Creates or causes unnecessary tire squealing, skidding, or sliding upon acceleration or stopping.
  2. Simulates a temporary race.
  3. Causes any wheel or wheels to unnecessarily lose contact with the ground.
  4. Causes the vehicle to unnecessarily turn abruptly or sway.

Careless driving is a simple misdemeanor, punishable by a schedule fine as set forth in Iowa Code section 805.8A, subsection 6, paragraph b.

It is important to note that a conviction for careless driving in Iowa can result in driver’s license issues and an increase in a person’s insurance rates.  That is especially true for younger drivers.

See also  Iowa VASCAR Aerial Speed Enforcement