
Persons who drive in a manner which is considered to be without due care and attention to other road users are charged with Careless Driving. For first time offenders, the worst possible outcome is a potential lifetime nationwide licence disqualification at the Magistrate’s discretion, a fine of 40 penalty units (valued at $154.80 each at present, totaling a maximum fine of $3084), and potentially 6 months imprisonment. However, imprisonment for a first offence in this category is improbable, particularly if there was no physical harm caused. Further, no mandatory licence disqualification applies to this offence, so the Magistrate is not forced to take your licence from you. That said, we do see individuals without proper legal representation at court often receive disqualifications of 6 months or more for a first time Careless Driving offence.