Reckless Driving

A reckless driver is one who operates a motor vehicle in an unsafe manner with willful disregard for the rules of the road or the safety of others. Maryland laws protect everyone on the road with no tolerance for reckless drivers. Whether or not a reckless driver has caused an accident, penalties for this type of behavior are strictly enforced.

At LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton, we have been advocating for those injured in car accident for over 30 years. Our team of experienced car accident lawyers is committed to claiming the maximum amount of compensation available to our clients that have been injured by a reckless driver.

Reckless Driving in Maryland

Reckless driving can take many forms, but the common denominator for the various types of this violation is the willful disregard for the law and the safety of others. A driver that is speeding in excess of 20 miles per hour over the state mandated speed limit, or is driving too fast for their current road conditions, is an example of a reckless driver. They are not only putting themselves in danger of injury, but could cause a serious or fatal car accident involving other vehicles and pedestrians on the road.

Tailgating or following another car too closely, making illegal turns or lane changes, and failing to yield to traffic signs or signals are other forms of reckless driving. A driver that fails to stop at a railroad crossing or passes another vehicle that is stopped can have serious consequences for the other cars at the intersection and for those in the oncoming train. Failing to use headlights during night driving or in inclement weather can result in a serious collision. Failure to yield the right of way in an intersection or driving on the shoulder of the road are also types of reckless driving that can cause serious and sometimes fatal car accidents.

Distracted driving is also a form of reckless driving and is becoming a leading cause of serious and fatal wrecks. Distracted driving can include texting or use of a cell phone while driving, or using onboard entertainment or navigation systems. Teenage drivers traveling with a group of rowdy friends can become distracted and cause a tragic car accident. Distracted driving is dangerous and reckless when a driver chooses to engage in these activities.

Penalties for Reckless Driving in Maryland

Reckless drivers in Maryland face stiff penalties that can have a significant impact on the offender’s finances and driving privileges. Reckless drivers can be fined up to $1,000 by the state and have up to six points added to their driving record.  Automobile insurance rates and coverage can be affected as well. Many insurance companies will not insure drivers with reckless driving histories, and if they do choose to provide coverage, insurance premiums can be substantially higher than average.

Criminal charges can also be brought against a reckless driver. Those who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs are not only considered reckless drivers, but face criminal fines and imprisonment as well. Injured victims or the families of those fatally injured by a reckless driver can also bring suit claiming damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages. Depending upon the seriousness of the car accident, reckless drivers can face criminal charges of vehicular homicide and involuntary manslaughter resulting in prison sentences and loss of driving privileges.

When serious injury occurs from a car accident caused by a reckless driver, the knowledge that these tragedies could have been prevented makes the emotional toll even worse for the victims and their families. Consulting with an experienced car accident lawyer can ensure that your legal rights are protected and that you claim the maximum compensation available to you.

Baltimore Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Help Those Injured by Reckless Drivers

If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident caused by a reckless driver, the experienced Baltimore car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton can help you recover the compensation you deserve.  Call us at 800-547-4LAW (4529), or contact us online to schedule a consultation today.  Our offices are conveniently located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, Maryland, serving clients throughout Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore.