Reckless driving puts everyone in harm’s way, and not just the driver itself. By ignoring the rules of the road, drivers, their passengers, and the public are immediately put in danger. In 2018, there were 2,291 reckless driving cases related to alcohol, and 64 cases were fatal. For distracted driving, there were 230 cases of reckless driving.
These statistics show that drivers still ignore basic traffic laws to prioritize themselves. It shows indifference to the safety and property of others. Driving recklessly in Michigan is is a misdemeanor, and it becomes a felony if it involves death.
Be a responsible driver. Equip yourself with the knowledge of the different types of reckless driving as well as some tips on how to avoid it.
Types of Reckless Driving
With reckless driving, it’s always the driver who is at fault. There is no text more important than keeping the eyes on the road. No amount of lateness begs for speeding. Ignoring basic safety precautions will endanger not only you as the driver but other drivers and pedestrians too.
In summary, reckless behavior includes:
- Distracted driving
Distracted driving is hazardous because the driver is unaware and not paying attention. A driver should never focus on anything else aside from driving, which includes checking the cellphone, eating, or reading a map.
- Tailgating
Some people underestimate the danger of tailgating, which is why they keep doing it. By bringing the car too close to the car in front, it doesn’t leave enough space for reacting to a sudden turn or stop. That is extremely dangerous.
Reckless drivers pay no attention to red lights and stop signs because they only care about getting to their destination. It affects many other drivers as well and can cause road accidents.
- Operating while intoxicated (OWI)
Known as “driving under the influence” in other states, instances of operating while intoxicated include the consumption of alcohol and drugs (both prescription and controlled substances), which affects the driver’s thinking and control.
Speeding decreases the driver’s control, making it easy to miss traffic signs, turn dangerously, or even cause accidents. It is very dangerous to go over the speed limit as this can cause the driver to lose sight of pedestrians or small vehicles.
- Switching lanes
When the reckless driver is impatient, he often wants to speed over the other drivers who are driving more slowly than them. Some forget their turns or exits, so they change lanes quickly, which endangers the other drivers on the road.
Tips on How to Avoid Reckless Driving
Focus on driving at all times and follow traffic rules. Reckless driving is can be easily avoided if the driver is committed to driving safely. Do not have complete disregard of signs, signals, and the law as this creates danger for everyone. Keep yourself and everyone else safe from harm by remembering these tips:
- Check the vehicle first.
Even drivers who have been driving for a long time should always check the vehicle before leaving. Set the temperature controls, adjust what needs to be changed. It lessens the chance that it distracts the driver while on their way.
- Put your cellphone away.
Cellphones are always a distraction, so put it away where you can’t reach it to check messages or make a call. Any quick look, no matter how sharp, poses a huge danger to the driver and the other vehicles. Removing electronic distractions include smartwatches and Bluetooth text display.
- Have a designated driver.
Always have a plan on how to get home even before leaving the house. If you are going with friends, remember to have a designated driver and make sure that they don’t drink. If you drove to the location, use ride-hailing services instead of forcing yourself to drive.
- Leave early and account for traffic.
Reckless drivers speed because they are late for something, which could have easily been avoided with the right preparation. Leave the house early and be responsible enough to leave enough time to reach the destination so you would not have to speed.
- Reach the destination first.
People have always been eager to do something right at the moment that they think about it. Reckless drivers get tempted by the food that they’re taking home or make conversation that takes away their focus. It doesn’t hurt to wait until the ride is over before engaging in these things.
If You Sustained an Injury From Reckless Driving, Seek Legal Counsel
For an injury lawsuit, you need to have a reliable and skilled car accident lawyer. Let The Clark Law Office help you get the right financial compensation that you are entitled to receive from the damages.
Rely on experience and expertise to get the best possible result for your case. Be represented by the best accident lawyers in Lansing. Contact The Clark Law Office now and get a free legal consultation for your case.
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