A careless operation citation may seem minor—but it can have lasting consequences.
While often used as a no-point alternative to speeding or other moving violations in South Carolina municipal courts, including Myrtle Beach, it still creates a record that can affect your insurance rates, employment opportunities, and, if you’re from out of state, potentially add points to your license.
At Chambers Law, we help drivers understand their rights and fight back against municipal traffic charges.
Call 843-449-0420 today for a free consultation.
What Is Careless Operation in Myrtle Beach?
Unlike reckless driving, “careless operation” is not a state-defined traffic violation under South Carolina law. Instead, it’s enforced at the municipal level through local ordinances—such as Myrtle Beach Municipal Code § 12-53.
Careless operation refers to driving without proper attention or caution, creating a risk to others but not rising to the level of reckless or intentional behavior.
Common Examples of Careless Operation
You may be cited for careless operation if you’re observed:
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Driving inattentively or while distracted (e.g., texting without hands-free)
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Failing to maintain lane or swerving unexpectedly
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Making unsafe lane changes or merges
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Following another vehicle too closely (tailgating)
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Driving too fast for road or weather conditions
Important Facts About Careless Operation Citations
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Municipal Violation – This is not a state criminal offense, but a local ordinance citation.
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Zero Points in SC – In South Carolina, these tickets do not add points to your license.
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Out-of-State Drivers Beware – Other states may treat this like a reckless driving or moving violation, resulting in license points or insurance consequences.
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Still Goes on Record – Even without points, it can affect your insurance premiums or background checks.
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Preferred by Courts – Often used in Myrtle Beach and other cities as a reduced alternative to speeding tickets.
Carless Operation vs Reckless Driving
The key difference is intent:
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Careless driving is usually the result of negligence or inattention.
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Reckless driving involves willful or wanton disregard for the safety of others.
Fighting a careless operation ticket may help you avoid a misunderstanding escalating into something more serious.
Why You Shouldn’t Just Pay the Ticket
Paying a careless operation ticket might seem like the easiest option—but it can cause problems later:
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Increased insurance rates
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Out-of-state penalties, including license points
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A permanent entry on your driving record
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Missed opportunity to reduce or dismiss the charge entirely
Common Defenses Against Careless Operation Tickets
At Chambers Law, we build your case by identifying flaws in the citation or court procedure. We may argue:
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Subjective judgment – Was the charge based solely on the officer’s opinion?
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No evidence – Lack of dashcam footage, witnesses, or measurable violation.
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Environmental factors – Poor visibility, sudden hazards, or unavoidable circumstances.
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Legal missteps – Unlawful traffic stops or improper ticketing procedures.
We also negotiate with city prosecutors to reduce the charge or dismiss it entirely when possible.
How Chambers Law Can Help
We offer full-service defense for Myrtle Beach and surrounding municipal courts. Our team:
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Analyzes officer reports, dashcam video, and witness accounts
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Appears in court on your behalf, if necessary
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Seeks to have charges dismissed, reduced, or kept off your record
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Helps out-of-state drivers minimize the impact at home
