Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90 section 24 provides that anyone who operates a motor vehicle upon a public way so that the lives or safety of the public might be endangered is guilty of this crime. The prosecution must prove three elements in order for you to be convicted of this offense:
First, you must have operated a motor vehicle;
Second, you must have done so on a public way or where the public has the right of access or where members of the public have access as guests; and
Third, operation must have occurred in a negligent manner so that it might have endangered the lives or safety of the public.
If Convicted of Negligent Operation of a Motor vehicle, you face a possible sentence of:
- Mandatory minimum imprisonment for 2 weeks or up to 2 years in jail
- $20-$200 fine
- Both a fine and imprisonment
- Driver’s license suspension of 60 days minimum or up to a year.
Plea options
Negotiate your sentence down to a fine
Defer adjudication in exchange for probation or a Continuance without a finding
Dismissal of the charges brought forth against you
It is a common practice of Massachusetts police to accompany a charge of Negligent Operation with a DUI/OUI charge.
If you have received a citation, summons, or were arrested for this charge, it is important to contact an experienced defense attorney as soon as possible. Call 508.579.8333 for a free initial case evaluation.
This information does not constitute legal advice and is written for general information purposes only. Individuals should consult with a lawyer for specific legal advice.
