Reckless Driving and Speeding in Queen Anne’s County
Car accidents caused by reckless driving are some of the most serious wrecks, often resulting in significant property damage and life-threatening injuries. As a result, motorists found guilty of reckless driving can face stiff penalties such as steep fines, license suspensions, and/or incarceration. Whereas some car accidents are the result of poor road conditions, inclement weather, or an honest mistake made by another driver, reckless driving accidents occur when another driver willfully disregards the safety of other motorists by driving in a way that compromises their safety. These accidents can be prevented by always following the rules of the road and knowing how to avoid individuals who are driving recklessly.
Unfortunately, reckless driving tends to go hand in hand with other potentially dangerous behavior, including drunk driving and driving while under the influence of drugs. Teens are particularly susceptible to this type of behavior because of the intense pressure to look cool in front of their friends. Peer pressure can get in the way of good judgment, often with devastating consequences.
Common Examples of Reckless Driving
Oftentimes, any of the following traffic offenses alone may not constitute reckless driving, but a combination of these behaviors will likely result in a reckless driving charge.
- Excessive speeding
- Driving too fast for current conditions
- Tailgating
- Driving through stop signs and/or red lights
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
- Driving while under the influence of drugs
- Sudden braking
- Driving without headlights at night or during inclement weather
- Swerving in and out of lanes
- Changing lanes without signaling
- Failing to yield to the right-of-way
- Passing on the right outside of normal traffic lanes
Speeding, combined with any of the above offenses, can cause injuries that are particularly serious. For example, if a reckless driver is speeding while also tailgating and weaving in and out of lanes, the resulting wreck is likely to cause injuries that are far more serious than if they were obeying the speed limit. Speeding is also more likely to result in a reckless driving charge if the following factors are involved:
- Presence of pedestrians
- Time of day
- Current traffic conditions
- Visibility
- Road conditions
How to Avoid a Reckless Driving Car Accident
The majority of reckless driving accidents can be prevented by making responsible choices and obeying the rules of the road at all times. Since you cannot control the driving behaviors of other drivers, keep the following safety tips in mind if you encounter a reckless driver:
- Avoid drivers that appear dangerous. If you notice another car tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, speeding excessively, or any other dangerous behaviors, it is best to change lanes and get out of their way.
- Report reckless drivers. If you can do so safely, pull over to the side of the road and call the local police if you see someone driving recklessly. Provide the driver’s license plate number if you can see it.
- Avoid distractions. Never talk, text, or check social media when you are driving. Other distractions that can take your attention off the road include eating, changing the radio station, reaching for something in the back seat, or putting on makeup.
- Wear seatbelts at all times. This includes passengers in the back seat. Seat belts are one of the most effective methods of preventing injuries in the event of an accident.
- Give yourself extra time to get to your destination. If you are rushing or running late, you are more likely to speed, tailgate, or run through red lights.
- Be responsible. Make safe choices every time you drive. Staying awake and alert will allow you to react quickly should you need to.
Queen Anne’s County Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Seek Justice for Victims of Reckless Driving Accidents
If you or a loved one have been seriously injured in a car accident involving a reckless driver, the Queen Anne’s County car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton will work tirelessly to determine who is negligent and hold them responsible for their actions. Our dedicated team will obtain the maximum financial compensation you deserve for your injuries, ensuring that your legal rights are protected. 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 Queen Anne’s County, Maryland, including the towns of Barclay, Centreville, Church Hill, Millington, Queen Anne, Queenstown, Sudlersville, and Templeville.
