Drivers may have many reasons for ignoring the rules of the road. Those excuses might not help them when they are involved in a Maryland civil trial. Reckless driving is typically inexcusable, and those who inflict harm due to their bad driving behavior could face penalties beyond what they thought possible.
Reckless driving and dangers to others
Reckless driving comes in many forms, and there is a common thread among them – the behavior involves a disregard for others’ safety. Often, reckless driving involves a conscious act, such as deliberately pressing down the gas pedal to speed down a road. However, saying the speeding was unintentional and the result of daydreaming won’t likely keep the driver out of trouble after a crash.
A civil case could establish reckless driving in many circumstances. Other examples could involve various moving violations that put people at risk, such as lane-splitting or tailgating. Impatience might prompt such actions, but being in a hurry won’t likely serve as a valid legal defense.
Some reckless driving examples may lead to criminal charges. Drunk driving is one example, and so might be any case where negligence led to someone’s death. The defendant might face a civil lawsuit even if found not guilty of criminal charges.
Personal injury lawsuits after a reckless driving accident
Lawsuits provide someone who suffered losses a means to receive compensation after car accidents. For example, a victim financially struggling with medical bills from a broken leg and a fractured skull could demand payment for the costs and follow-up care. The plaintiff could ask for punitive damages when the harm derives from blatantly reckless and illegal behavior.
If the reckless driver carries sufficient liability insurance, filing a claim might be an option. Victims could explore an uninsured/underinsured driver claim on their policies in some situations.