Reckless driving is one of the most dangerous and potentially deadly habits a person can have behind the wheel. Hundreds of lives are lost every year due to accidents caused by reckless drivers.
Fortunately, there are ways for victims of these irresponsible motorists to protect their rights and seek justice for any injuries or property damage that may have been sustained due to the recklessness.
This article will discuss some of the hazards associated with reckless driving and how individuals can take proactive steps to protect themselves should they ever find themselves in such a situation.
The Hazards Of Reckless Driving
Reckless driving goes beyond simply being aggressive on the road; it includes behaviors such as speeding, running red lights/stop signs, failing to yield the right of way, or even engaging in illegal activities such as drag racing. Recognizing that any form of negligent driving can have severe and sometimes fatal consequences is essential.
Speeding is a perilous habit. Excessive speed limits can make it difficult for drivers to navigate turns and curves safely, leading to potential accidents. Additionally, the faster a vehicle travels at the time of impact with another object (such as another vehicle), the more severe the damage will be due to increased kinetic energy. According to studies conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately one-third of all traffic fatalities are caused in some way by speeding or other forms of reckless driving behaviors
In addition to any physical danger posed by reckless driving, there is financial risk. Depending on the severity of the careless behavior, drivers could face fines and other costs associated with their negligence. According to personal injury attorneys from Hawk Law Firm, suing a drunk driver or a reckless driver may hold them legally culpable and require them to pay restitution to any victims involved in an accident caused by their recklessness. Reckless and drunk driving are considered criminal conduct and can often lead to criminal charges. Families of physical injury and wrongful death victims may also be able to seek legal recourse against irresponsible drivers.
How To Protect Your Rights
Nobody wants to be caught up in a situation where someone else’s irresponsible driving habits have victimized them, but unfortunately, it happens all too often. Fortunately, you can take steps to protect yourself should you ever find yourself in such a scenario.
1) Take Photos Of The Vehicle And Scene
Taking photos of the vehicle and scene after an accident is a valuable way to protect your rights. Photographs can help document facts that may be difficult to remember or recall in the midst of a stressful situation. Photos also provide objective evidence that can be used later to support your claim if necessary.
Car accidents often do not result in major damage or injury, but even minor collisions can lead to costly repairs and unexpected medical bills. Taking photos serves as proof of the condition of both vehicles before any repairs are made and can help you ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for any damages incurred in the accident.
Photos at the scene may also provide helpful context about what happened during the accident, such as the exact location on the road, skid marks (if applicable), and other factors that could have contributed to the accident.
Finally, photos of any visible injuries can help support your claim for compensation for medical expenses or pain and suffering. Photos taken soon after the accident are particularly valuable because they show the injury as it was at that time, rather than how it may have healed over time.
2) Get Contact Information
Get contact information from the driver and any witnesses present at the scene. This includes their name, address, phone number, and insurance company/policy number if applicable. Be sure to also note the make, model, and license plate number of the other vehicle involved in the incident for your records.
3) Seek Medical Attention
If you have been injured due to someone else’s reckless driving, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Not only will this ensure that you get the care and treatment you need, but it will also help to document your injuries and provide proof of damages should a legal claim be pursued.
4) Contact The Police/Insurance Companies
Make sure to contact both the police and your insurance company to inform them of the incident. This will help ensure that all parties involved are aware of what happened, which can make filing any necessary claims much easier in the future.
5) Document Everything
Be sure to keep track of all documents relating to the accident for future reference. This includes pictures taken at the scene, medical records from doctor's visits, police reports, insurance documentation, and other records about the incident.
Reckless driving is a serious issue that can have severe consequences for everyone involved. By understanding the risks associated with this behavior and taking steps to protect your rights in the event of an accident, you can ensure that you are properly taken care of should something unfortunate occur. Be sure to drive safely and responsibly.
