A driver can be considered to be driving dangerously when their driving falls far below the minimum standard of a careful driver and that a careful driver would be under no uncertainty that the driving standard would be dangerous.
Common scenarios where driving may be dangerous include:
- Being distracted by something, e.g. changing the radio, lighting a cigarette or looking at a map
- Dangerous overtaking manoeuvre
- Driving under the influence of drink or drugs
- Ignoring street signage or traffic signals
- Not being in a fit condition to drive, perhaps when sleepy
- Under the knowledge that the vehicle has an unsafe load or mechanical defect
- Aggressive driving or racing