Reckless Driving and Speeding in Baltimore City

When someone disregards the rules of the road while they are behind the wheel of a car or truck, they  compromise the safety of other drivers on the road. Reckless driving and speeding are two of the most common causes of car accidents, many of which are very serious or fatal. Fortunately, many of these accidents can be prevented if you are aware of the common causes of reckless driving accidents. While you cannot control how other people drive, you can follow the rules of the road and take steps to avoid people who are driving recklessly.

Common Causes of Reckless Driving Car Wrecks

 Reckless drivers often have an overall disregard for the safety of other people and their property. When a driver makes the decision to drive over the speed limit and in a reckless manner, it can have devastating consequences. The following are examples of common causes of reckless driving accidents:

  • Speeding or driving too fast for conditions
  • Tailgating
  • Drowsy Driving
  • Drunk Driving
  • Distracted Driving
  • Running stop signs or red lights
  • Making improper turns
  • Making unsafe lane changes
  • Failing to stop, yield, or signal
  • Braking suddenly
  • Failing to use headlights at night or during inclement weather

Safety Tips for Preventing Reckless Driving Accidents

In most cases, you can avoid being involved in a reckless driving wreck by obeying posted traffic signs and driving safely. By taking the following steps, you can ensure that you are not a victim of someone else’s poor choices.

  • Avoid drivers who appear to be driving recklessly. If you see someone who is tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, or speeding excessively, put enough distance between you and the other driver so that you do not risk being a victim of their aggressive driving.
  • Report dangerous drivers to the authorities. Call the police if you see someone driving recklessly and provide the license plate number of the car. If it is a truck, call the number on the back of the trailer and report the incident to a supervisor.
  • Always wear your seat belt. Seat belts are one of the best ways to protect yourself and other occupants in the car from being injured in a reckless driving accident.
  • Give yourself extra travel time. By allowing extra time to get to your destination, you will not be tempted to speed or use shortcuts that could be dangerous.
  • Avoid distractions. Never use your mobile device while you are driving. Looking away from the road to check your phone for a few seconds can have serious consequences.
  • Make responsible choices. Do not get behind the wheel after having too much to drink or too little sleep. It compromises your ability to react quickly to unexpected situations.

Unfortunately, some of the behaviors discussed above often go hand in hand. For example, people who are driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol are more likely to speed as well. Teen drivers are particularly susceptible to reckless driving due to peer pressure and the desire to impress friends. One moment of poor judgment can end in tragedy when a bad decision causes a reckless driving car accident. Teens and adults alike can face serious penalties for causing a reckless driving accident, including steep fines and possible jail time.

Baltimore City Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Represent Victims of Reckless Driving Accidents

If you or someone you love has been injured in a car accident due to another person’s reckless driving, do not hesitate to contact the Baltimore City car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton at your earliest convenience. Reckless driving endangers the lives of other motorists and we take this offense very seriously. We will ensure that the negligent party is held responsible for their actions and that you receive the maximum financial compensation for your injuries. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.

Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, allowing us to represent car accident victims in Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.