Reckless driving does not simply represent a serious offense in Georgia. It is the focal point of a serious problem that affects the entire state. According to Georgia Highway Safety, nearly half of all fatal auto accidents in Georgia involve at least one driver who is exhibiting risky driving behaviors.
When another driver’s disregard for safety causes the injury or death of another person, it can cause devastating emotional and financial hardship. And if you or a loved one has been harmed by reckless driving, you may be entitled to compensation for such damages.
At Gautreaux Law Firm, our experienced Macon, GA, personal injury lawyers will fight to ensure the reckless party is held liable for both your medical costs as well as your pain and suffering. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a free consultation.
Common Causes of Reckless Driving Accidents
Going just a touch over the speed limit or taking a quick look in the backseat to check on a passenger doesn’t necessarily constitute reckless driving. It’s natural for us, as drivers, to be frustrated by heavy traffic or find ourselves momentarily distracted while on the road.
Reckless driving is generally defined as willfully driving in a dangerous manner, one that involves the purposeful disregard for the safety of property of other people. Common examples of reckless driving in Georgia are as follows:
- Tailgating
- Lane weaving
- Driving any vehicle you know to be unsafe or mechanically flawed
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Running stop signs or lights
- Street racing
Some of these examples could also be described as aggressive driving, but in the state of Georgia, aggressive driving is a separate offense. It is defined as driving with the intent to obstruct, intimidate, or harass other drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, or passengers. As such, a Georgia driver can be charged with both reckless and aggressive driving, depending on their actions.
The Penalties for Reckless Driving
Georgia State law classifies reckless driving as a misdemeanor. And though that may not sound like a serious charge, it is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and a year in jail. Not only that, but a misdemeanor remains on a person’s criminal record forever.
If the individual’s reckless driving causes the wrongful death of another person, it may be considered an act of homicide by vehicle, which is a felony. Additional charges of speeding, DUI, or aggressive driving can result in thousands of dollars of fines and long prison terms.
What to Do if You Are in a Reckless Driving Accident
If you are in a car accident caused by a reckless driver, start by getting yourself (and your vehicle, if possible) to safety. Then, as you are able, complete the following tasks:
- Collect information from eyewitnesses
- Take photos of the accident site
- File a police report
- Contact your insurance provider
- Contact a personal injury attorney
Despite the importance of these steps, your health (and that of any others involved in the accident) must be the top priority. Call emergency services before anything else if you or someone else are clearly injured.
Even if you don’t feel any pain, it’s important that you seek medical attention as soon as you can. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding, may only be apparent with medical examination. Similarly, the symptoms of whiplash, one of the most common auto accident injuries, may not appear for several days. Keep your appointments and follow up with all medical recommendations, including those that concern your mental health.
Receiving Compensation
Many people who have been injured in car or motorcycle accidents assume that the liable driver’s actions influence the amount of compensation they are entitled to.
Compensation for reckless driving accidents, obtained from either a settlement or a court case, is based on the cost of current and ongoing medical care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other factors that directly affect the injured party. Whether the driver was wantonly reckless or made a simple mistake does not generally influence compensation values, though it does affect their legal consequences.
Depending on the severity of your injuries and the costs involved with rehabilitation, a reckless driving suit could implicate hundreds of thousands of dollars or more. However, without an experienced personal injury attorney to represent you, you may only receive a small fraction of the compensation you deserve. Consulting with an attorney is the best way to ensure your rights are protected and that the reckless driver is made financially liable for their actions.
Gautreaux Law Can Help
The experienced attorneys at Gautreaux Law know how to navigate the complexities of the Georgia legal system and fight with insurance companies on behalf of their clients.
Furthermore, with Gautreaux Law on your side, you have more than just an attorney who shows up in court. Our lawyers take the time to explain the process to you and discuss the best strategies. We gather crucial evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with medical experts and others to build a strong case.
If you or someone you know has been injured by a reckless driver, contact Gautreaux Law Personal Injury Attorneys in Macon, GA, today to schedule a free consultation.