ABA Family Legal Guide

Automobiles

Accidents and Insurance

Accidents

According to the law, how safely must I drive?

You have to use reasonable care under the circumstances. Negligence--the failure to exercise reasonable care--is the most common basis for liability. Ordinary negligence is not a crime.

However, if your driving is really bad, to the extent that it is willful or wanton, then you may be guilty of reckless driving, which is a crime.