In 2016, it was reported that tens of thousands of people lost their lives in serious accidents involving acts such as speeding, failure to stay in a lane, distracted driving, and swerving across roadways. All of these collisions seem like everyday accidents that occur on our roads due to the negligence of drivers, but it is much more than that. It is considered to be reckless driving.
All acts of reckless driving are completely preventable, which is why it might be shocking to you that people still tend to lose their lives in these horrific accidents at the hands of other parties. Because reckless driving has become one of the main reasons why drivers and passengers are hospitalized or killed every year, we must work together to do what it takes to put an end to all forms of reckless driving. Today, we would like to take a closer look at many of the most common types of reckless driving and how they can be prevented.
Common Types of Reckless Driving
Speeding: Nearly half of all deaths that happen to those who fall victim to reckless driving actually stem from incidents of speeding, which can cause a driver to lose control and completely wipe out anyone who shares the roads. Of course, avoiding a speed-related accident is completely preventable, as anyone can choose to follow the speed limit that is posted on our roads. Otherwise, a driver might find that they will lose control of their vehicle more quickly or won’t be able to stop in time if they have to.
Running Red Lights: Individuals tend to make this mistake every day. They are distracted while approaching a traffic light and don’t notice that it is red, so they breeze on through. Many other people feel that they are above the law and that they can pass through at any time. Statistics show us that failing to stop or yield in America took the lives of over 2,000 people in 2016. This is why it is important for us to keep our eyes on the road and watch out for red lights and others at intersections.
Crossing Center Line: If you see two double lines on the road, you know enough about driving to know that passing is not legal in that area. However, by no surprise, many people tend to ignore these double yellow lines and pass in places where they are not permitted to do so. This might not seem like a big issue, but it is; a car could be coming around a corner or up over a hill and the driver making the pass would never see them. These areas are marked for our safety and should be abided by.
Distracted Driving: Distracted driving includes anything that takes our eyes and minds off of the roads while driving, such as texting, eating, engaging with passengers, or adjusting the center console. Distracted driving kills many people every year and is particularly reckless, in the sense that you cannot operate a vehicle if it is not completely on your mind to do so.
Seeking the Help of an Attorney
If you believe that you were injured in a West Virginia car accident that took place at the hands of a reckless driver, you will have to show that the driver acted in a certain illegal manner at the time of your crash. At Katz, Kantor, Stonestreet, & Buckner, we understand what you are going through and wish to help you bring your personal injury claim so that you can gain strength and retain hope in your case. Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information on your claim at (304) 713-2014.