Car accidents caused by reckless drivers do not occur randomly. The thoughtless actions of other New Jersey motorists cause these accidents. Reckless driving can endanger lives and damage property. Learning to recognize common reckless driving behaviors and consequences can help you reduce the risk of being in a car accident.
Common risk factors
Even if you understand that reckless driving often causes car accidents, you may not know which actions count as reckless driving according to the law. Examples of actions that qualify as reckless driving include the following:
- Excessive speed
- Shoulder driving
- Tailgating
- Weaving between lanes
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence
- Running red lights
- Illegal passing
- Failing to yield to emergency vehicles
- Ignoring right-of-ways
- Common injuries
Reckless driving results in serious injuries for all of those involved. These accidents may cause physical and mental harm to victims. Common examples of injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Head injuries
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Soft tissue injuries
- Burns
- Disfigurement
- Amputations
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Internal bleeding
Determining liability
Determining liability in a reckless driving accident involves a thorough investigation to establish who was at fault for the collision. Courts determine liability by assessing factors such as witness statements, police reports, traffic laws, and physical evidence from the accident scene. In cases of reckless driving, the driver who engaged in dangerous or negligent behaviors often faces criminal liability and civil lawsuits. However, multiple parties may share liability in reckless driving car accidents. If you are involved in a car accident, you should always gather as much evidence as possible to defend against liability claims.
Accidents caused by reckless drivers pose a grave threat to road safety. These behaviors can result in long-term injuries and prolonged legal battles. Always remember to observe traffic laws in order to reduce reckless driving car accidents.