Todd Sumamno
When someone gets behind the wheel of a vehicle, they are responsible for following the rules of the road and making sure they drive safely. Unfortunately, car accidents are more common than many realize. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates one in four people have a car accident at some point in their lives. Often, reckless driving is to blame for accidents. Victims injured in an accident due to irresponsible driving need to be aware of their rights as victims.
What Is Considered Reckless Driving?
Reckless driving is defined as a willful or negligent act that disregards the safety of other drivers and pedestrians. In most states, acts of reckless driving result in misdemeanor charges. Those who commit reckless driving acts can spend time in jail, have their driver’s license suspended, and face fines. Those who want to learn about reckless driving should continue reading.
Examples of Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is treacherous and can cause serious accidents and even casualties. The following offers some examples of reckless driving all motorists should avoid.
- When motorists drive far above the speed limit, they are committing reckless driving. Many drivers get behind the wheel when they are late and try to speed as much as possible to get to their destinations on time. When speeding, drivers cannot brake efficiently and often cause accidents.
- Racing is another reckless driving act that should never occur on roads. When one driver is trying to race another, serious injuries frequently result. A high rate of speed causes a greater impact between two vehicles and could lead to deaths.
- Evading a police officer is also considered thoughtless. Not only is it against the law to elude an officer, but the high rate of speed often causes grave accidents. A driver who participates in this type of reckless behavior will often face severe charges.
- Unsafe passing is another act of reckless driving. Double yellow lines mean drivers cannot pass. Unfortunately, many drivers do not heed the rules of the road and end up causing deaths. Head-on collisions occur frequently as a result of illegal passing.
- Drivers may also commit reckless acts when they drive too fast or erratically on wet roads. During wet conditions, drivers must slow down and ensure they are giving themselves more time to reach their destinations. Hydroplaning is expected when roads are wet and drivers are going too fast.
What Should Injured Victims Do After Reckless Driving Accidents?
If someone becomes seriously injured because of a reckless driver, the victim has the right to hold the driver accountable for their actions. One of the first steps a person should take is to seek medical treatment. Even if the injuries seem minor, serious internal injuries may remain hidden at first.
Once under the care of a doctor, injured parties should schedule a consultation appointment with a lawyer. At the meeting, the injured victim will discover information on the rights they hold and the options they have for pursuing a settlement.
Reckless motorists must face punishment for their actions when they cause accidents. No hurt victim should have to battle the insurance company alone. Getting assistance from an injury attorney makes the process much more manageable for victims.
Because of the statute of limitations, injured victims should act quickly. Victims should schedule a consultation appointment right away to start the process.
Brittany
