In Connecticut, reckless driving not only puts lives in danger but can also result in severe and long-lasting injuries. When you are the victim of a reckless driving accident, you must take steps to gather information, seek medical attention and report the accident as soon as possible.
Defining reckless driving
Reckless driving covers a variety of dangerous driving behaviors that disregard the safety of others on the road. Actions can include extreme speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, aggressive tailgating and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Reckless motor vehicle accidents can cause many types of injuries, ranging from small cuts and bruises to traumatic injuries and fatalities.
Types of injuries
Common injuries from reckless driving accidents include whiplash, bone fractures, spinal cord injuries, soft tissue damage and injuries to the brain and head. These types of injuries often require victims to get immediate medical attention and recovering can involve extensive treatment, healing and rehabilitation. Victims of reckless driving accidents often suffer emotionally and financially in addition to their physical injuries.
Assigning liability
Determining who is at fault in an accident helps law enforcement and insurers decide which party should be assigned liability for the accident and damages caused. The determination relies on eyewitness accounts, forensic evidence and police reports. Reckless driving often involves types of driving that clearly violate traffic laws and common-sense safe driving, which makes it easier to identify which driver was reckless.
In some cases, both drivers have some fault in the accident. Evidence from the accident scene and other factors help determine comparative fault or the percent fault assigned to each driver, which can affect your compensation. Understanding how liability is established helps victims seek justice and compensation for their losses.
Pursuing compensation
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries due to someone else’s reckless driving, you must understand your legal rights and options. You will need to have the evidence assessed, including witness statements, to establish whether you have any liability. You can seek potential compensation for medical expenses, lost income and pain and suffering. The process is complex, and you may need to negotiate with the other driver’s insurance company or file a legal claim to get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Being injured in an accident caused by a reckless driver can be traumatic. Taking the proper steps to navigate the aftermath can help you regain control of your life.
