All motorists have a legal obligation to drive as safely as possible. Unfortunately, far too many drivers engage in dangerous driving practices that can lead to catastrophic collisions and debilitating injuries. If this sounds like what you have gone through, it is important for you to know that you are not alone during this difficult time in your life.
Connect with a compassionate and highly skilled Myrtle Beach reckless driving lawyer from Shelly Leeke Law Firm when you are ready to explore your legal options further. We offer a no-win, no-fee guarantee, so there is no risk to you in pursuing maximum compensation for your damages. Discuss your opportunities for financial recourse with a dedicated Myrtle Beach car accident lawyer when you contact our law offices to request a free consultation.
Defining Reckless Driving in Myrtle Beach
You can rely on your Myrtle Beach personal injury lawyer to collect the evidence needed to win at trial. Your reckless driving accident attorney in Myrtle Beach will cover every expense as we build your case against the at-fault party.
According to S.C. Code §56-5-2920, motorists can be found guilty of reckless driving if they operate a motor vehicle with intentional or wanton disregard for other motorists on the roadways. If a driver is traveling at speeds of more than 25 mph over the speed limit, law enforcement officials are within their rights to issue a traffic citation for reckless driving. In 2021, there were 1,285 aggressive driving incidents reported across the state according to the South Carolina Traffic Collision Fact Book.
Reckless Homicide
If a reckless driver causes a collision resulting in fatal injuries, they may also face charges of reckless homicide. This is a criminal offense, punishable by fines not to exceed $5,000 and as much as 10 years in a South Carolina state prison. Motorists can also face a five-year suspension or revocation of their driver’s licenses.
When reckless driving costs your loved one their life, you may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit under South Carolina Code §15-51-10. With the support of a compassionate Myrtle Beach wrongful death attorney, you can demand the reckless driver be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. You can find out whether you have the authority to file a claim when you contact us to discuss the specific details of your case.
Myrtle Beach Reckless Driving FAQ
Reckless driving accidents can also be some of the most terrifying collisions. While you are recuperating and looking for answers online, the last thing you need is to be inundated with meaningless search results. For this reason, we have included a quick FAQ below that answers some of the top questions surrounding reckless driving accident claims in Myrtle Beach.
You may have further questions that are more specific to the details of your case. Do not hesitate to contact a dedicated reckless driving lawyer in Myrtle Beach with Shelly Leeke Law Firm. We can start considering your legal options and schedule your free consultation today.
What Are the Penalties for Reckless Driving in Myrtle Beach?
Under the law, if the driver who hit you is found guilty of reckless driving, they can be charged with an infraction. If convicted on a first offense, they could be fined and spend up to 30 days in jail. However, if a reckless driver is convicted of a second infraction, not only could they spend time in jail and pay fines, but their driver’s license will likely be suspended or revoked for a minimum of three months.
The driver who hit you will be subject to liability in your personal injury lawsuit. With the support of your reckless driving attorney, you can file a claim against the reckless driver’s auto insurance policy and potentially bring your case to trial. If your claim is successful, the defendant could be ordered to compensate you for every single loss you experienced as a result of your injuries in the reckless driving accident.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Reckless Driving Accident Lawsuits?
When filing a reckless driving accident lawsuit, the statute of limitations will typically expire three years from the date of the collision, according to the South Carolina Code of Laws §15-3-530. Every person’s case is different, so do not hesitate to consult with your Myrtle Beach reckless driving lawyer from Shelly Leeke Law Firm if you are unsure how much longer you have to file your claim. If your lawsuit is not filed before the statute of limitations expires, you may be prohibited from pursuing your case any further.
What Evidence Can Be Used to Prove the Driver that Hit Me Was Driving Recklessly?
The burden of proof in a car accident and personal injury claims is based on a preponderance of the evidence under South Carolina Code §15-36-100. The evidence presented at trial must always be convincing and clear. The jury must agree that the evidence suggests the defendant’s reckless driving was more than likely responsible for causing your injuries.
Some examples of powerful evidence in reckless driving accidents include:
- Vehicle black box data
- Photos of skid marks and damage at the accident scene
- Photos of your injuries
- Dash or traffic cam footage of the accident
- Testimony from accident reconstructionists
- Information obtained from witnesses to the collision
- Testimony from responding officers and experts
- The defendant’s chemical blood alcohol concentration (BAC) test results
- The defendant’s driving history and employment records
Get Help from a Top-Rated Reckless Driving Attorney in Myrtle Beach Today
If someone else’s reckless driving has left you with severe emotional trauma, lasting financial losses, and debilitating physical injuries, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Whether you need to demand a settlement from the insurance company or pursue a personal injury lawsuit against them, with the support of a reputable Myrtle Beach reckless driving attorney, you have a chance to ensure justice is served. With Shelly Leeke Law Firm handling the legalities of your case, you can spend more of your time focusing on your recovery.
The claims process can be overwhelming, but you do not need to go through it alone. By taking action now, not only could you be awarded the fair compensation you deserve, but you could also potentially help prevent future instances of reckless driving. Learn more about what is next for your car accident claim when you complete our quick contact form or call our office to request a no-cost, risk-free consultation.
