Illinois residents might be at serious risk on the roads when drivers behave recklessly. Reckless driving can have serious consequences that can even be fatal.
What is reckless driving?
Reckless driving is a type of traffic violation that shows utter disregard for others. It’s a type of aggressive driving that often involves driving at speeds far over the legal speed limit, not following the rules of the road and dangerous tactics such as weaving in and out of lanes. Reckless driving causes a person to lose control of their vehicle and increases the odds of a serious car accident occurring. It can result in severe personal injuries and even fatalities.
What are examples of reckless driving?
Accidents stemming from reckless driving usually occur because the driver used poor judgment. Common causes of reckless driving accidents can include the following:
- Racing or speeding far over the legal speed limit
- Braking erratically
- Not signaling when making turns or lane changes
- Following too closely behind the vehicle ahead or tailgating
- Making illegal lane changes or turns
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Driving while distracted such as texting while driving
- Ignoring traffic lights and traffic signs
Any of these actions can lead to a serious car crash that can result in catastrophic personal injuries and deaths.
What damages can victims recover?
Victims injured as a result of reckless driving accidents might be able to recover compensation for certain damages. Those damages include the following:
• Medical expenses and ongoing medical treatment for the future
• Lost wages and future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life
Preventing an accident
Of course, you can’t prevent a reckless driving accident from happening as you can’t control what others do. However, as a driver, you should stay hyper-vigilant behind the wheel and use defensive driving to your advantage. This means to expect danger so that you’re ready for anything.