Reckless driving and car crashes
Everyone on the road in California has a right to be safe. Unfortunately, reckless drivers may cause severe vehicle collisions that result in serious injuries to themselves and others with whom they are sharing the road.
What is considered “reckless driving” in the law?
When a driver fails to use due caution to prevent themselves and others from being put in danger by their driving, they are engaged in reckless driving. Reckless driving can be caused by carelessness or deliberate forms of aggressive driving that may raise the risk of a collision.
Additionally, the State of California may also consider reckless driving a felony and charge the driver if driving resulted in injuries to bystanders or other innocent parties.
What is Reckless Driving vs Aggressive Driving vs Careless Driving?
The primary distinction between reckless driving and aggressive driving is that reckless driving simply implies that you engage in dangerous conduct. Intentionally driving aggressively endangers other drivers, as well as your own, by instilling fear and harassment in them—also known as road rage.
While not legally defined in California, careless driving is defined in many states as operating a vehicle unsafely, without aggression or intent. One common example of careless driving is failing to use a turn signal when turning.
What are examples of reckless driving?
When a California driver disrespects the regulations of the road and commits a series of traffic infractions, he or she is driving recklessly. They may run straight through a stop sign or red light. However, there are several other examples of reckless driving. The following are some examples:
- Following too closely
- Intentionally tailgating another vehicle
- Driving under the influence (alcohol or drugs)
- Distracted driving (cell phone, eating, reading)
- Making illegal turns
- Weaving in and out of lanes
- Braking erratically or unnecessarily
- Speeding or drag racing
- Failing to observe hazardous conditions
Every driver on the road is at risk when someone drives irresponsibly. A reckless driver might cause severe damage or death in a vehicle accident.
What are some of the most frequent injuries caused by negligent driving?
Those who are injured in car wrecks caused by carelessness may find their life irrevocably altered. After such an incident, certain ailments are typical. Even if the damage is minor, traumatic brain injuries might have long-term consequences.
Spinal cord injuries are frequent after accidents caused by reckless driving. A person may become paralyzed from the waist down or even the neck down in the worst-case situation.
Tendonitis and tendon injuries are common, and they may cause persistent discomfort due to internal tearing and bruising.
What should I do if I am injured due to a reckless driver?
Injuries sustained in a car crash due to reckless driving can be serious. Holding the liable party accountable is a basic pillar of justice in our legal system. At Harsh Law, our goal is to hold the responsible parties accountable to help you and your family get the compensation you need to cover medical and rehabilitative costs, lost wages, and other expenses.
Call Harsh Law at 909-793-6261 for a free consultation.