Accident While Making A Left Turn

[Huongnguyen]

Hi,
I was involved in a two car collision last year while making a left turn. I was at fualt, the police came and wrote the report, but never issued me any tickets, and said it was accident and to be carefull next time. Three months later I get a summon in the mail to appear in court for being charged with "Careless Driving" I've never had a ticket, never been in an accident before. Help!! is my case serious enough that I could be charged with a criminal record? and should I get a lawyer to appear in court with me? And would this charged also be dismissed if the police don't appear in court?

[Mr. Knowitall]

In most states a "careless driving" ticket will be a civil infraction, not a criminal offense, although you didn't identify the state so you will have to investigate that further. You can probably get a free consultation with a lawyer in relation to the ticket, during which you can discuss what benefit you might gain from hiring a lawyer.