Reckless driving is one of the top causes of car accidents in Ohio and across the United States. In fact, reckless drivers play a role in around 56% of fatal crashes, according to a study by the American Automobile Association.
Common reckless driving behaviors
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration defines reckless driving, which is sometimes called aggressive driving, as a combination of moving traffic behaviors that endangers other drivers, pedestrians or property. Some of these behaviors include:
- Speeding or driving too fast for the conditions
- Drunk or drugged driving
- Failure to yield
- Distracted driving
- Weaving through traffic
- Driving on the shoulder of the road
- Tailgating
- Passing where prohibited
- Failure to signal
- Drowsy driving
- Racing
According to the NHTSA, speeding, impaired driving and failure to yield caused the most fatal car accidents in 2019.
Reckless driving crash injuries
Because reckless driving accidents are often severe, they can result in a number of serious injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Disfiguring injuries, such as burns or facial lacerations
- Broken bones
- Soft tissue damage
- Crush injuries
Aftermath of reckless driving accidents
It’s common for reckless driving cases to end up in court. People who are injured by reckless drivers may file a lawsuit seeking compensation for pain and suffering, medical expenses, long-term care, lost wages and other damages. Meanwhile, families who lose loved ones might choose to file a wrongful death claim to recover funeral expenses, loss of income and more. These types of lawsuits can be filed against the driver who caused the crash and other responsible parties.