What Is Considered Reckless Driving in a Car Accident Case?

When someone makes a mistake and causes an accident, that’s one thing. When someone causes an accident due to their reckless driving habits, they absolutely need to be held accountable. If you were injured by a driver who didn’t make an effort to safely share the road with you and everyone else on it, then our Monmouth County auto accident attorneys want to hear from you.

What Can Be Considered Reckless Driving?

There’s plenty of behavior that can be considered reckless. You can accuse a driver of endangering you if they were:

• Speeding
• Making aggressive lane changes
• Ignoring traffic signals
• Street racing
• Tailgating
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol

Engaging in conduct like this shows that the driver who caused your accident does not care if they put others in danger. They need to be held accountable for their reckless driving.

What Should I Do If I’m Hurt By a Reckless Driver?

If you get hit by a reckless driver, you should start building your case and gathering evidence right away. If you are able to, you should:

• Take photos of the crash scene and damaged vehicles
• Call the cops so that they can make a report
• Talk to witnesses and get their contact information
• Look for cameras that may have recorded the crash
• Get to a doctor as soon as possible

Can I Sue a Reckless Driver for Damages?

First, you would use your no-fault coverage to cover expenses stemming from the accident. Your personal injury protection can be used to pay medical bills and other expenses no matter who is at fault. Unfortunately, that coverage may not be enough if you are seriously injured.

That’s when you would sue the reckless driver for damages. You have to build a case and show that they were negligent, which isn’t always easy. Our experienced attorneys can help you with that though.

How Long Do I Have to Sue?

New Jersey gives you two years to sue after an accident, but we don’t recommend waiting around for too long. Witness memories fade and video of a crash can get erased or recorded over. Act quickly and you make it easier for your lawyer to gather useful evidence. Plus, the sooner you act, the sooner you can receive your compensation.

Will a Reckless Driver Face Criminal Charges?

Your civil case against a reckless driver can proceed even if they are currently involved in a criminal case. If their behavior was bad enough, they may be facing charges. A conviction of reckless driving or a similar offense could then be used as evidence in your personal injury case. So not only can a reckless driver face criminal charges after a crash, but the outcome of their case can affect your claim.

Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney

So when you’re ready to sue a reckless driver for compensation, we’re ready to assist you. Contact the Wilton Law Firm and ask about our free case consultations. We’ll tell you more about what we can do to help you fight for the compensation you deserve.