Reckless Driver

When a car accident occurs due to reckless driving, the attorneys at Tapalian Law in Providence are ready to represent clients who have been hurt in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. A reckless driver crash can occur when a motorist uses their vehicle in a way that puts others around them, including themselves, in danger. If a driver is aware of operating their vehicle in a way that could threaten the wellbeing of the public, whether the resulting damage was intentional or not, they may be found at-fault for reckless driving. A person in any age group can be guilty of reckless driving, and the event need not occur on a public road.

According to Rhode Island Statute § 31-27-4, reckless driving is considered a criminal charge punishable by fines, jail time, and/or loss of license. A reckless driver’s first conviction may result in a misdemeanor while any following convictions may be deemed felonies. The State considers a driver to be reckless when they were aware of the danger their driving posed, or when they reasonably should have been aware of the risk. The statute also does not require harm to occur for a vehicle to be driven recklessly, as there only needs to be the potential of damages. Rhode Island also defines reckless driving as trying to escape from law enforcement. A RI car accident lawyer can examine police reports and other vital evidence to determine if the motorist responsible for your collision may be held responsible for your injuries according to the reckless driving statutes in RI.

Operating a motor vehicle in a reckless manner can manifest in many ways, all of which can result in a dangerous collision leaving those involved with severe or fatal injuries. When a reckless driver crash turns fatal, family members may potentially file a wrongful death claim against those responsible for the harm. The Providence reckless driver attorneys at Tapalian Law are well-equipped to represent victims of any type of reckless car accident in Rhode Island and Massachusetts and seek justice for the injured and their families.

• Speeding. One of the most common types of reckless driving is speeding. A vehicle moving at high speeds typically causes a more forceful collision resulting in greater chance of injury or a fatality. Fast-moving cars are also more difficult for the driver to control and stop. While speeding can be defined as driving faster than the speed limit, a driver can also be considered reckless if they drive too quickly in adverse weather conditions, even if they are technically below the speed limit.
• Aggressive driving. If a driver acts aggressively by weaving in and out of traffic or tailgating too close to cars in front of them, a reckless driver crash may occur. Road rage, one type of aggressive driving, also falls under the reckless driving category, as well as an intent to use the car as a weapon. If another driver harasses and deliberately attempts to harm others on the road, they are guilty of aggressive driving.
• Fleeing Law Enforcement. If a driver makes deliberate attempts to avoid law enforcement officials or flees the scene at which a police officer is present, they may be convicted of reckless driving that can also be amplified if the speed they travelled is greater than 15 miles per hour.
• Distracted driving. By taking their eyes off the road to look at their cell phone, eat, or engage in other activities, motor vehicle operators put those around them at risk. The driver of a car can also get distracted if they talk to other people in the automobile, apply makeup, or adjust their seat, GPS, or radio while moving. Drowsy driving is also considered reckless driving behavior, as excessive tiredness can cause a motorist to either fall asleep at the wheel or pay less attention to their surroundings.
• Drunk driving. While drunk driving is often classified in a category of its own, reckless driving can also be used as a plea bargain for driver’s initially charged with driving under the influence.
• Drag Racing. In Rhode Island, drag racing also results in a reckless driving charge. A driver is part of drag racing if two or more people race on the roadway, or if the driver prevents another vehicle from passing them. These vehicles travel at high speeds and there must be an aspect of competition.
• Ignoring Traffic Laws. Other types of reckless driving include driving a car that is known to be unsafe or damaged. When a driver makes an illegal turn, ignores red lights, or drives through a stop sign, they put other cars legally following traffic laws in danger. If a school bus is present, a driver may be acting recklessly if they pass the bus when the stop sign is present. At a railroad crossing, a driver may decide to ignore the barrier preventing the vehicle from passing to the other side of the road.

Providence Car Accident Attorney David Tapalian works in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Florida to assist victims of reckless driver crashes, as well as other car, motorcycle, and pedestrian accidents. Attorney Tapalian offers a free consultation to discuss your injury claim and explain your legal rights. Our offices are in Providence, Warwick, and Seekonk to ensure easy access for all RI and MA residents. Call Tapalian Law at 401-552-5000 or go online to schedule your free consultation.