Reckless Driving and Speeding in Baltimore County
Even when you make every effort to follow the rules of the road and make safety a priority every time you get behind the wheel, you cannot control how others drive. Unfortunately, too many people engage in reckless driving, which can endanger the lives of other motorists on the road. Reckless drivers often show a complete disregard for laws that are meant to keep drivers safe, including laws against speeding, drinking and driving, texting while driving, and tailgating, to name a few. Reckless drivers can face serious consequences for their actions, which can range from steep fines to jail time, depending on the seriousness of the offense.
Common Examples of Reckless Driving
People who engage in reckless driving often engage in more than one of the following behaviors:
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Sudden braking
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Driving through stop signs or red lights
- Failing to turn on headlights at night or during inclement weather
- Making improper turns
- Making unsafe lane changes
- Driving too fast for current conditions
While speeding alone may not always be considered reckless, driving at an extremely high rate of speed can be reason enough for a person to be charged with reckless driving. In addition, excessive speeding can make other reckless driving behavior worse. For example, driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is an example of reckless driving that can cause serious, fatal accidents. When the driver is also speeding, the consequences can be catastrophic. Whether intentional or not, teens are one of the biggest offenders of reckless driving because they feel pressure to be “cool” and impress their friends. This often means making poor decisions, such as speeding, driving while intoxicated, and texting while driving.
Tips on How to Avoid Reckless Driving Car Accidents
Unfortunately, reckless driving wrecks happen because of another person’s poor judgment, so that cannot always be avoided. However, there are steps you can take to make reduce your chances, including driving safely and always following the rules of the road. The following are some additional tips that can prevent you from becoming a victim of a reckless driving accident:
- Always avoid cars or drivers that appear to be dangerous. If you see another car that is tailgating someone, weaving in and out of traffic, or speeding excessively, keep your distance from that vehicle or changes lanes as soon as you can.
- Report a reckless driver. If you can pull over safely, call the police and report that you have spotted a reckless driver. Try to get a clear look at the license plate number so that you can provide that information. If the vehicle is a truck, call the number on the back of the trailer and report the driver to their employer.
- Always wear a seat belt. Without exception, all passengers should wear their seat belt, including those in the back seat. This can save lives and prevent serious injuries in the event of an accident.
- Allow extra time to get to your destination. Doing this will make you less likely to speed, take unsafe shortcuts, or take your frustrations out on other drivers.
- Avoid distracted driving. Texting or talking on your phone, eating while driving, and checking social media are just a few examples of distracted driving. Do not allow yourself to engage in this behavior as it can result in serious accidents, as well as make it more difficult to react to a reckless driver while you are behind the wheel.
- Be alert and aware of your surroundings. The more aware you are of other drivers, the better you will be able to respond quickly if your find yourself in a potentially dangerous situation.
Baltimore County Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Represent Victims of Reckless Driving Accidents
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a car accident involving a reckless driver, you are urged to contact the Baltimore County car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton as soon as possible. Reckless driving is irresponsible, dangerous, and can cause serious, life-threatening injuries. We take this offense very seriously and we will work tirelessly to hold the negligent individual responsible for their actions. Our dedicated team will pursue the maximum financial compensation you deserve. For 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, Baltimore 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.
