Reckless driving has the potential to cause serious and fatal injuries. Returning to daily life after a crash can be stressful, especially if an injury burdened you with unexpected medical bills and other expenses. In Maryland, you could obtain compensation for your losses in several ways. An experienced car accident attorney can outline your options after reviewing your case.
Reach out to an experienced reckless driving accident lawyer at Trollinger Law LLC. We can help you seek the compensation and justice you deserve. For years, clients have trusted our law firm to provide honest and vigorous legal representation that delivers results. Put our knowledge to work for you. Contact us today for a free consultation with a reckless driving accident attorney in Maryland.
What is Reckless Driving in Maryland?
Maryland defines reckless driving as operating a motor vehicle with a wanton or willful disregard for other peopleās safety or property. This means driving in a way that shows a deliberate indifference to the consequences.
Reckless driving is more severe than negligent driving. Negligence occurs when a driver fails to act with the care a reasonable person would exhibit behind the wheel. Recklessness involves knowingly taking substantial and unjustifiable risks. While negligence suggests carelessness or inattention, recklessness implies a conscious choice to drive dangerously.
To convict someone of reckless driving in Maryland, prosecutors must prove the driver knew their actions jeopardized people and property and intentionally disregarded that risk. Causing an accident through carelessness does not constitute reckless driving.
Causes of Reckless Driving Accidents
Common causes of reckless driving accidents include:
- Deliberately ignoring red lights or railroad crossings
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Ignoring other road usersā right-of-way
- Operating a vehicle with a suspended or revoked license
- Speeding excessively
- Racing
- Passing in dangerous conditions
- Driving aggressively by tailgating, swerving, or cutting others off
An experienced Maryland car accident attorney can investigate the accident to determine whether the other driverās actions amount to reckless driving.
Penalties for Reckless Driving in Maryland
Reckless driving is a misdemeanor offense in Maryland. Penalties include:
- Fines up to $1,000
- Up to 6 points on the offenderās driverās license
- Driverās license suspension
People injured in reckless driving accidents often seek compensation from the driver or another at-fault party for their personal and financial losses. A victim of a reckless driving wreck might be entitled to money for losses like:
- Medical and rehabilitation expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
Get Help From Our Maryland Reckless Driving Accident Attorney
Having the right car accident lawyer could help you obtain the compensation you need after a reckless driving accident in Maryland. With decades of experience, Trollinger Law LLC knows what it takes to build a strong case in your favor. Call or contact our office today to speak to a Maryland reckless driving accident attorney. The first consultation is free.
