Types of Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is a common factor in car accidents. When a person ignores traffic laws and engages in driving behaviors that put other people’s safety at risk, he or she is driving recklessly.
Accidents involving a reckless driver can seriously injure or kill other drivers, passengers, or pedestrians. If you or a loved one was injured in an auto accident caused by a reckless driver, attorneys Liz Quick and Matt Quick may be able to help you obtain compensation for damages.
Here, we discuss the most common types of reckless driving. Read on to learn more, and then contact Quick Law Group, PLLC in Kirkland, WA to have one of our attorneys review your case.
Speeding
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 27 percent of all traffic fatalities in 2015 involved at least one speeding driver. When driving at excess speeds, the risk of serious injuries and fatalities increases.
Drivers commonly speed because they are running late, distracted and not paying attention to the speedometer, or impatient. No matter the reason, speeding is a dangerous driving behavior. If speeding drivers cause an auto accident, they will be liable for damages.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol, prescription drugs, or illegal drugs is another example of reckless driving. There are traffic laws in place that prohibit people from driving under the influence of illegal drugs and certain prescription medications, in addition to limits on alcohol for drivers over the age of 21.
Distracted Driving
There are many types of distracted driving. Applying make-up or grooming, eating, drinking, playing with the radio, and talking or texting on a cell phone are all examples of distracted driving.
When drivers stop paying attention to the road and cars around them, the risk of an auto accident increases. Distracted drivers can be held accountable for any damages that result from these car accidents.
Aggressive Driving
Some drivers engage in aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating, failing to yield to other vehicles, overtaking other vehicles, and verbally harassing other drivers. In some cases, aggressive driving progresses to road rage.
If an auto accident is caused by another driver’s aggressive driving or road rage, that driver could be held liable for property damage, medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages.
Failing to Follow Traffic Laws
Traffic laws are intended to improve safety for drivers and passengers on the road. Unfortunately, drivers intentionally disobey or ignore traffic laws every day. These actions increase the risk of accidents.
The other driver may be liable for damages if he or she disobeyed traffic laws. Examples of this include:
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Failing to yield
- Speeding
- Unsafe lane changes
- Failing to signal
- Following too closely
If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident caused by another person’s reckless driving, you may be able to obtain compensation for any losses related to the event. Contact Quick Law Group, PLLC today to schedule a time to have one of our attorneys review your case. We can advise you if you should proceed with a lawsuit.