Most Californians follow the rules of the road and adhere to all safety measures when behind the wheel. However, some people feel the need to get where they are going as quickly as possible with little regard for their own safety or the safety of others on or near the road. Reckless driving is the cause of many motor vehicle accidents each year, and the behavior can take on various forms, including any of the following:
- Speeding — Excessive speed is arguably the most common reckless driving behavior. While a lot of drivers may travel a few mph over the speed limit, others drive as fast as possible, which can lead to serious collisions.
- Following too closely — Tailgating refers to the action of following the vehicle ahead too closely. While many drivers consider this an annoyance, it greatly reduces reaction time on the part of the tailgating driver, which can lead to a rear-end collision should the driver of the leading car brake suddenly.
- Making dangerous maneuvers — Weaving in and out of traffic lanes, passing on double-yellow lines and around blind curves, and racing other vehicles are all examples of reckless behaviors some drivers engage in. Doing so significantly increases the risk of causing an accident.
- Ignoring traffic signs and signals — People who run stop signs and red lights as well as those who do not yield the right of way at intersections can cause potentially deadly crashes.
- Driving while intoxicated — Driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol is another pervasive reckless driving action, and each year, DWI and DUI accidents claim the lives of many people throughout the nation.
These are but a few examples of reckless driving behaviors some motorists engage in. Victims of car accidents caused by another driver’s negligent, careless or reckless behavior have the right to pursue litigation in an attempt at recovering damages. Affected parties in California will want to work closely with an experienced personal injury attorney to increase their chances of obtaining a successful outcome.