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Identifying and avoiding reckless drivers

September 8, 2020

That’s because drivers who engage in reckless behavior make the conscious decision to put others in danger. Each year, people are killed in crashes because of reckless driving. Many more sustain serious injuries.

That’s why it’s important to know how to spot a reckless driver and do your best to practice defensive driving. If you were injured in a crash with a driver who was behaving recklessly, don’t hesitate to speak to an experienced Chicago car accident attorney to learn about the legal options available to you.

Reckless driving behavior to watch out for

The types of driving behaviors linked to reckless driving to watch out for include:

  • Failing to consider the conditions of the road or weather: Drivers must be prepared to slow down for traffic jams, road construction and inclement weather. Reckless drivers often don’t take these conditions into consideration. They may travel at speeds that are not safe for the given conditions, weave through traffic or try to cut off other drivers.
  • Failing to show regard for the safety and rights of other road users: Reckless drivers sometimes behave like they own the road by failing to yield the right-of-way or engaging in aggressive driving. They often don’t show any regard for the safety of other road users, especially motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians.
  • Failing to obey traffic laws: Reckless drivers may blow through red lights and stop signs, exceed the posted speed limit or make illegal turns.
  • Drunk driving: The degree of impairment linked to alcohol may depend on the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of the driver. It’s illegal to drive with a BAC of 0.08 percent or greater. Drunk drivers may have trouble staying in their lanes or controlling the steering wheel.
  • Distracted driving: Distracted driving can be a form of reckless driving. Distracted driving can lead drivers to take their hands off the wheel, eyes off the road and attention away from driving. The use of cellphones while driving is prohibited in Illinois and enforced as a primary law. Signs that another driver may be distracted include failing to stay within the lines on the road, making abrupt stops in traffic or at red lights, and noticeably engaging in tasks other than driving.

Contact us if you were injured by an aggressive driver

You can avoid reckless drivers simply by maintaining a safe distance from them, but sometimes that’s not possible. You may be in the wrong place at the wrong time when being struck by a reckless driver.

If you or a loved one was hurt in a crash, the attorneys at Coplan + Crane can help you through your recovery. We investigate crashes like yours. Our lawyers help our clients maximize their compensation. We don’t want you to pay out of pocket for medical costs and other damages.

You may also be eligible for wage reimbursement and non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. To learn more, contact us online and schedule your free and confidential case evaluation.