What is reckless driving? Reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle in a manner that endangers or is likely to endanger persons or property, including driving at unreasonably high speeds, driving while intoxicated or under the use of drugs, and exhibiting reckless disregard for the safety of others.
If you were injured in a collision with a negligent and reckless driver, contact a North Charleston car accident lawyer to go over options for pursuing compensation.
How South Carolina Defines Reckless Driving
South Carolina law prohibits reckless driving, recognizing how these dangerous behaviors heighten the potential for accidents and severe injuries. The state takes a serious view of reckless driving violations, which can result in both criminal charges and significant fines and penalties.
Section 56-5-2910 of the South Carolina Code of Laws defines reckless driving as operating a vehicle in a manner that endangers or is likely to endanger persons or property, including actions such as:
- Driving at unreasonably high speeds.
- Driving intoxicated or using drugs.
- Reckless disregard for the safety of others.
While criminal convictions for reckless driving may hold the at-fault driver accountable, it does not address the victim’s financial burdens after being injured in an accident. The repercussions of a reckless driving accident can be devastating, often leading to severe injuries, high costs for medical expenses, lost income, and more. At Shelly Leeke Law Firm, we fight to help secure the compensation injury victims need to recover.
Common Examples of Reckless Driving
Negligent behavior that is considered reckless driving can take the form of various actions or inactions. Every driver on the road has a fundamental duty to care, an obligation to prioritize their own safety and that of others by adhering to safe driving practices and avoiding any actions that could endanger people’s lives or property.
While some forms of reckless driving are more prevalent than others, here are some common examples of reckless driving you may see on South Carolina roadways.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a major issue exacerbated by the widespread use of smartphones and other devices. According to the National Transportation Safety Board, hands-free devices do not eliminate distracted driving issues on the road, as drivers can still experience cognitive distraction while multitasking.
Other actions like eating, drinking, applying makeup, or attending to children can also significantly impair a driver’s ability to focus on the road, making distracted driving a reckless action.
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
Driving drunk or under the influence of drugs is incredibly dangerous, and DWI drivers face severe criminal penalties, including license suspension and potential jail time.
However, even after facing legal consequences, these individuals may still be held civilly liable for the harm they caused to others. South Carolina is 2nd in the nation for DUI fatalities, and our car accident lawyers are committed to holding reckless DWI drivers accountable for their actions.
Speeding
Driving above the marked speed limit is illegal and, moreover, dangerous. While many drivers may exceed the limit by just a few miles per hour, excessive speeding or speeding that recklessly endangers others can constitute a reckless driving violation.
Speeding can lead to serious South Carolina car accidents and often result in catastrophic injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, internal organ damage, and fatalities.
Swerving in Traffic
Marked lanes on the road serve to maintain order and safety by guiding the flow of traffic. While lane changes are necessary for driving, they must be performed safely and responsibly, allowing for proper space between vehicles and appropriately signaling to cars around you.
Reckless drivers often engage in erratic lane changes, weaving in and out of traffic at high speeds, which can significantly increase the risk of sideswipe accidents, rear-end collisions, and other serious crashes.
Wrong-Way Driving
Encountering a vehicle traveling in the wrong direction on a highway or a ramp is a terrifying experience. This reckless driving behavior often ends in head-on collisions, often leaving both drivers in fatal conditions. This frequently happens with intoxicated or sleepy drivers becoming confused about the direction of traffic or drifting over the median into oncoming traffic.
The Impact of Reckless Driving
Reckless driving accidents can end in severe injuries or death to drivers and passengers involved. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident caused by another driver’s recklessness, the experienced attorneys at Shelly Leeke Law Firm can help.
We will fight to protect your rights and secure the compensation you need to help in your recovery.
What to Do After an Accident Caused by a Reckless Driver
Following a car accident with a reckless driver, you must prioritize your and your passengers’ health and safety. Seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries appear minor. Prompt medical evaluation is essential for diagnosing, treating, and correlating your injuries with your accident should you choose to pursue an insurance claim.
Contact law enforcement to report the accident. At the scene of the crash, gather as much evidence as possible. Take photos and videos of the surroundings, write down the contact information of witnesses, and note down as many details as you can.
Next, consult with an experienced car accident lawyer to determine your next steps. We will diligently investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident, including determining if the at-fault driver was engaging in reckless behavior, such as using their phone or excessive speeding. Acting promptly is essential to ensure your rights are protected.
Hold Reckless Drivers Accountable: Schedule a Consultation Today
At Shelly Leeke Law Firm, you are more than just a case number. Our dedicated team prioritizes your needs and well-being above all else. We are committed to securing the best possible outcome for your claim to help you during your recovery.
Do not let reckless drivers get away with their negligent behavior. Contact us today to schedule a free case consultation. We will answer your questions and help you determine the next best step for you in pursuing fair compensation.
