According to WHO, about 1.3 million individuals die in road-related accidents per year. Millions more sustain severe, usually life-altering injuries, most of which can be attributed to reckless driving. Unfortunately, many motorists still engage in reckless driving, despite the knowledge of substantially increasing the risk of causing an accident.
If you or a loved one have been injured by a reckless driver, you may be entitled to compensation. However, proving negligence in such accidents can be tricky and that’s why it is important to hire a Smryna reckless driving accident lawyer.
The team at Jamie Ballard Law is experienced and skilled at handling auto accident claims and so, you can trust us to help you recover the compensation you deserve. Reach out today by calling our offices in Smyrna at 404-301-1687.
What Is Reckless Driving?
Reckless driving can take many varying forms. Simply put, however, it is the act of driving a vehicle in a manner that puts people or property in harm’s way, be it intentional or not. In Georgia, this offense is usually considered a misdemeanor, but charges may vary in severity depending on the outcome of the reckless behavior.
Being charged with reckless driving can have an array of outcomes for the motorist at fault. Some possible penalties include but aren’t limited to:
- Arrest and up to 12 months in jail
- Fine of up to $1,000
How Does Reckless Driving Increase the Possibility of a Road Accident?
Georgia law states that all motorists should exercise caution and reasonable care to ascertain the safety of others while on the road. When a person drives recklessly, they breach the duty of care that all motorists are supposed to observe when driving a vehicle on the roads. Common behaviors that contribute to a reckless driving judgment include:
Texting While Driving
With smartphones being a common device nowadays, texting while driving has become rampant. No matter how important the message is, avoid texting while operating a car as it only increased the chances of an accident.
Speeding
Going a few miles over the speed limit might seem like much, but driving at high speeds makes it harder to maneuver around obstacles or bring the car to a complete halt.
Road Rage
Motorists who shout and honk at others tend to be angry, which increases the chances of making poor decisions that may result in an accident.
Running Red Lights
Running a red light at a busy intersection is one of the most dangerous things you can do. Avoid this temptation or you might end up in an accident.
Tailgating
This happens when a car travels excessively close behind another one. Ensure you leave adequate room to break as the last thing you want is a rear-end collision.
Not Using Turn Signals
Some motorists are way too lazy to use their turn signals, which are supposed to let others know when they are changing lanes or making a turn.
What Damages Are Available When You’re Hit by a Reckless Driver?
The specific damages and amount to be awarded depend on the facts and circumstances of your individual case. There are numerous factors that contribute to the compensation or jury award amount of a reckless driving claim.
That’s why it is imperative to consult an experienced and knowledgeable auto accident attorney who specializes in reckless driving cases in Smyrna. This will ensure you protect your rights and make a fact-based assessment of the possible value of your damage or injury claim.
When you pursue a reckless driving lawsuit in Georgia, you can a claim for the following damages:
Economic Damages
These are losses related to assets or money and include medical bills, lost wages, inability to work, damage to property, etc.
Non-Economic Damages
These losses are just as important but tend to be difficult to quantify, as they are intangible. They include pain and suffering, disfigurement, loss of companionship, loss of enjoyment in life, emotional distress, etc.
Punitive Damages
These are sought in serious cases of negligence or liability, particularly if the reckless driving behavior resulted in severe physical impairment or death.
How Can I Prove the Other Party Behaved Recklessly?
In order to receive financial compensation following a reckless driving accident in Georgia, you need to prove fault. There are various ways to prove that the other driver was behaving recklessly, and this is where a good lawyer comes in handy.
An experienced personal injury attorney will garner the necessary evidence by reviewing police reports and interviewing witnesses in order to prove the reckless behavior of the party at fault. For more solid evidence, they will take advantage of highway cameras, dashcams, testimonies from witnesses, and even speedometer calibration.
Your Smyrna reckless driving accident lawyer will need to prove the following important aspects:
- The other party had a duty to care for others on the road.
- The other party breached that duty.
- The accident was the defendant’s reckless driving.
- You suffered injuries and losses due to the accident.
How Long Do I Have to Make a Claim in Smyrna, Georgia?
In Georgia, the statute of limitations for filing an auto accident claim is two years from the date of the accident. There can be exceptions for some cases, but this deadline won’t be waived or extended.
How Can an Attorney Help With My Auto Accident Claim?
If you find yourself in an accident resulting from reckless driving, you should contact a trusted lawyer as soon as possible. Here are some of the ways our team at Jamie Ballard Law can help:
Case Preparation
If the other party or insurance company isn’t willing to offer a fair settlement, our team will file a personal injury lawsuit in order to secure the compensation you deserve. This step is usually enough to push the other party to other a fair settlement before the case goes to court.
Settlement Negotiation
Adjusters are often skilled negotiators who will fight hard for their interests. With a legal team on your side, however, you can be assured that we will negotiate with your interests in mind and prevent you from settling for an unfair amount.
Trial Representation
While most cases are resolved through a settlement, sometimes negotiations don’t produce results. Having a Smyrna reckless driving accident lawyer on your side is essential if your case goes to trial.
How Much Does an Auto Accident Lawyer Cost?
Many of our clients worry about this but you don’t have to fret. Our firm operates on a contingency basis, meaning you do not have to pay a cent until you are compensated. If we do not win your case, then no payment is required.
Get a Smyrna Reckless Driving Accident Lawyer Today!
Being the victim of a reckless or negligent driver can be devastating, both physically and mentally. Victims of such accidents usually go through agonizing, potentially life-changing, and life-threatening physical and emotional injuries, not to forget financial ruin. If a reckless driver has injured you or a loved one, it is imperative to get an experienced lawyer on the case immediately.
The team at Jamie Ballard Law understands what you are going through. You may have questions about how much your case is worth and the time it will take to seek compensation. You can be certain that we will use everything in our arsenal to ensure you get justice and the compensation you deserve. Get to know your legal options by calling us at 404-301-1687 today!
