If you or a loved one has injuries or material damages from a car accident involving a reckless driver, you are not alone. A Deerfield Beach reckless driving lawyer with Ben Crump Law, PLLC will focus on handling your case and getting you compensation while you focus on you or your loved one’s recovery. Call (844) 730-0233 today for a free consultation with a member of our team.
Overview of Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is a crime and a major traffic violation. Reckless driving can include speeding excessively, such as driving twice the posted speed limit. Racing with other cars on the highway is also an example of reckless driving, as well as weaving in and out of traffic at high speeds or driving a vehicle with major defects.
Aggressive driving and actions resulting from road rage, for example, tailgating other drivers, can also be reckless driving. The Florida Statute of Limitations states that a driver causing a police chase and fleeing from police officers is per se considered reckless driving and a felony of the first degree. Other causes of reckless driving accidents can include:
- Driving while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol
- Ignoring traffic signs and traffic lights
- Distracted driving
There can be many different instances in which a driver commits a reckless driving offense.
For a free legal consultation with a reckless driving lawyer serving Deerfield Beach, call (844) 730-0233
The Consequences of Reckless Driving
Reckless driving and the resulting accidents can have dire consequences for the victims and their families. They can cause health or psychological problems for years to come, and even the loss of a loved one. Some of the consequences of being a victim in a car accident involving a reckless driver can be:
- Debilitating physical injuries
- Mental scars
- Permanent disability
- Inability to work
- Job loss
- Spiraling medical and hospital bills
- Material damages
- Needing caregivers
There can be many other serious and life-changing ramifications for victims of a car accident caused by a reckless driver, including future costs that may not be apparent at the time of the accident. It is therefore vital that victims have a grasp of their legal rights.
Speaking with a Deerfield Beach reckless driving lawyer can make all the difference in knowing your rights and potential compensation. You should not be responsible for any expenses resulting from someone else’s criminal behavior. Importantly, taking a reckless driver to account can help prevent other people from becoming victims in the future.
Deerfield Beach Reckless Driving Lawyer Near Me (844) 730-0233
The Difference Between Reckless Driving and Careless Driving
There are some fundamental differences between reckless and careless driving in Florida.
Careless driving is a much less serious offense compared to reckless driving, which is a criminal act carrying a much higher punishment. On the surface, careless driving can look similar to reckless driving. The type of traffic offenses, such as driving too fast, and weaving in and out of traffic could be either careless or reckless driving.
However, the major difference distinguishing careless from reckless driving is that it is a temporary distraction or unintentional slip-up by the driver that makes it careless.
Reckless driving, on the other hand, is defined by law as a complete disregard for other road users, driving so dangerously as to put other people’s lives at risk, and doing so on purpose.
Careless driving is a moving violation rather than a criminal offense. Reckless driving in Florida carries a prison sentence as well as a monetary fine.
In practice, the lines between reckless and careless drivers can be blurry, especially for the layman. This is why it can be helpful to speak to a reckless driving lawyer to see whether your particular case is, in fact, a reckless driving incident. By reviewing the accident report, your lawyer can determine the nature of your collision.
Being injured or, in the worst case, having a loved one pass away due to the actions of a reckless driver can be devastating. It is normal to feel angry and helpless. Dealing with insurance, medical appointments, and all the paperwork involved can cause added stress; however, we can help you hold a driver accountable for their reckless actions. You do not have to do this on your own.
The Statute of Limitations
Timing is important in a reckless driving lawsuit. In Florida, the statute of limitations for a wrongful death claim is generally only two years, and four years for a personal injury case. Time can pass quickly when preparing and researching a potentially complex case.
We can help you determine whether a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit is a good option for you. Contact your Deerfield Beach reckless driving lawyer with Ben Crump Law, PLLC at 800-598-7557 to help you move forward.
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Compensation For Victims of Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is a crime and, therefore, a criminal case can take place concurrent with a civil lawsuit. If a plaintiff can prove negligence, they can receive compensation for economic and non-economic damages. This includes lost wages, medical expenses, material damages, and pain and suffering, among others.
A wrongful death lawsuit could warrant additional awards, an example being funeral expenses and loss of companionship for the spouse and children of the deceased.
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We Offer Legal Assistance
Reckless driving lawsuits can be multi-faceted, complicated, and lengthy. The last thing on your mind after an accident leaving you or a loved one injured may be trawling through paperwork or gathering witnesses for a lawsuit. Do not let this deter you from potentially receiving an award for your medical costs and other expenses. We can work on your behalf and ensure that a reckless driver can be held accountable for their actions.
Importantly, we will take future expenses into account that may arise from an injury or disability caused by the car accident and help protect you and your loved ones from such future bills. A member of our Deerfield Beach reckless driving lawyer team is standing by to discuss your rights and legal options. Call Ben Crump Law, PLLC today: (844) 730-0233.
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