Reckless driving refers to a wide range of dangerous behaviors behind the wheel. A particularly egregious moving violation could lead a driver into a Connecticut civil court if someone gets hurt or suffers property damage. Those hurt by a reckless driver may benefit from learning their options if they become a victim
Reckless driving behaviors
Showing a driver committed reckless disregard for the safety of others may require pointing to the cause of the crash. Speeding represents such behavior, especially when the driver travels far above the speed limit. Speeding drivers who perform other reckless actions, including going through red lights, may face credible negligence claims if they hit a car or pedestrian. Tailgating and lane splitting are two other dangerous actions that could cause collisions.
Drunk driving kills a significant number of people each year. Still, many drivers are willing to operate a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. A substantial wrongful death claim could result when a fatal drunk driving accident occurs.
Post-accident steps
Motor vehicle crashes involving reckless drivers could leave victims with traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage and other catastrophic injuries. Victims might take a significant financial loss because of medical bills, lost wages and more. Filing a civil lawsuit might open doors to recovering compensation and punitive damages.
When a driver’s behavior is so reckless, and the harm inflicted so serious, a jury may award punitive damages. Punitive damages serve to punish the person by imposing substantial monetary costs. However, auto liability insurance may exclude punitive damages. An insurance claim could cover various other losses caused by negligence up to policy limits.