It’s one thing for a driver to be careless behind the wheel, such as by speeding or changing lanes without taking time to look for traffic. Reckless driving is an entirely different matter. In some cases, reckless driving can even be a crime under the California Rules of the Road – a much more serious offense compared to a traffic ticket or citation.
However, you may be wondering whether reckless driving is a felony, and you certainly want to know about your rights if you’re injured in a car accident that involves reckless conduct. Your Los Angeles car accident attorneys can provide essential details, but an overview may also be helpful.
Reckless Driving Classifications and Punishment
There are multiple sections regarding reckless driving in California, which are distinguishable based upon whether the motorist causes injuries, serious bodily harm, or death. To prove the basic form of reckless driving, the State of California must show that the motorist intentionally drove in a way that presented a serious, unjustifiable risk of harm – and he or she ignored it.
If someone was hurt because of reckless driving, the offense is a “wobbler.” It can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the circumstances and the motorist’s prior history. He or she could face three years in prison and/or $10,000 in fines for a conviction.
Examples of Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is a serious offense that can result in accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. Reckless driving can lead to serious accidents and endanger everyone on the road. Here are some common reckless driving behaviors to avoid:
Excessive Speeding: Driving significantly above the posted speed limit can greatly increase the risk of accidents.
Tailgating: Following another vehicle too closely can leave little time to react if the lead car suddenly stops.
Aggressive Lane Changes: Quickly weaving in and out of traffic can be dangerous and disorienting to other drivers.
Ignoring Traffic Signals: Running red lights and ignoring stop signs. Disregarding traffic signals can lead to collisions and endanger both pedestrians and other motorists.
Driving Under the Influence: Operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs can significantly impair judgment and reflexes.
Distracted Driving: Examples include texting while driving and using a cell phone. Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents.
Racing: Engaging in street racing or other forms of competitive driving can be extremely dangerous and illegal.
Passing in No-Passing Zones: Attempting to pass another vehicle in areas where it is prohibited can increase the risk of head-on collisions.
Remember, reckless driving is not only illegal but also a major safety hazard.
Your Rights as a Victim of a Reckless Driving Crash
The punishment for a person who’s found guilty in an injury-causing reckless driving crash may be more severe. However, no fine or jail time will compensate you for your losses if you were injured as a result of the crash. You do have legal options through a civil lawsuit, and a Los Angeles personal injury attorney can help with your claim.
In such a case, you must prove that the other driver breached the duty of care, which was a direct result of the injury-causing accident. When the other motorist got a ticket, was arrested for a misdemeanor, or faced felony charges, this is strong evidence of a breach. You may be entitled to recover compensation for such losses as:
- Medical costs;
- Lost income for the time you were out of work;
- Pain and suffering;
- Emotional distress; and,
- Many other monetary damages.
In a reckless driving accident, there’s another type of damages intended to punish the motorist who operated a car with disregard for the safety of others. Punitive damages may be available in car accident cases where the other driver’s actions were extreme or outrageous. When reckless driving is charged as a felony, seeking punitive damages may be appropriate.
Trust Our Los Angeles Personal Injury Lawyers to Assist with Your Claim
Reckless driving is definitely more serious than negligent conduct behind the wheel of a car, but egregious acts may not always entitle you to punitive damages. For more information on how these cases work, please contact El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers. We can schedule a free case evaluation to review your circumstances and explain your rights.