Reckless driving happens when a driver acts carelessly or dangerously on the road. This can include speeding, running red lights, tailgating, or weaving between lanes. In Washington, reckless driving is a criminal offense because it puts others at serious risk.
In a busy city like Seattle, reckless driving can cause severe accidents, leading to injuries or even fatalities. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash caused by a reckless driver, you may have the right to seek compensation. A Seattle car accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options.
Common Causes of Reckless Driving Accidents
Reckless driving can take many forms, but some of the most common behaviors include:
- Speeding: Driving too fast reduces reaction time and makes accidents more severe.
- Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Ignoring traffic signals endangers pedestrians and other drivers.
- Tailgating: Following too closely behind another vehicle increases the risk of rear-end collisions.
- Weaving Through Traffic: Changing lanes aggressively can cause multi-car pileups.
- Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drugs impair judgment and slow reaction times.
When drivers make reckless choices, they risk themselves and everyone else on the road. Victims of reckless driving accidents may face serious injuries, medical bills, and emotional trauma. A Seattle personal injury lawyer can help hold the responsible driver accountable.
The Consequences of Reckless Driving Accidents
Reckless driving can lead to serious, life-changing injuries. When a driver speeds, runs a red light, or swerves between cars, they put everyone around them at risk. Victims of these accidents often suffer painful injuries that take months or even years to heal.
Broken Bones
A reckless driver who speeds or runs a stop sign can hit another car with such force that it crushes bones. Broken legs, arms, or ribs are common in high-impact crashes. These injuries can be extremely painful and may require surgery, physical therapy, or even months in a cast.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
If a reckless driver causes a crash, the impact can make a person’s head hit the steering wheel, dashboard, or pavement. A brain injury can lead to memory problems, difficulty speaking, or even permanent brain damage. Some victims struggle with concentration or mood swings for the rest of their lives.
Spinal Cord Injuries
When a reckless driver rear-ends another car or runs someone off the road, the force can damage the spine. Some people lose feeling in their legs or arms; in severe cases, they may never walk again. Even less serious spinal injuries can cause constant pain and difficulty moving.
Whiplash
If a reckless driver stops suddenly or crashes into another car, the impact can violently snap a person’s head forward and back. This can strain the muscles and ligaments in the neck, making it painful to turn the head or even get out of bed. Whiplash can take weeks or months to heal, making everyday tasks difficult.
Internal Injuries
High-speed crashes from reckless driving can cause damage to internal organs like the liver, kidneys, or lungs. Because these injuries aren’t always visible, they can be life-threatening if not treated quickly. Victims may need emergency surgery or long hospital stays to recover.
In addition to physical injuries, victims may also suffer emotionally and financially. Medical bills can pile up quickly, and if injuries prevent someone from working, lost wages add even more stress. Working with a Seattle car accident lawyer can help victims recover the financial support they need.
How a Seattle Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
Filing a claim after a car accident can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with pain, stress, and medical bills. The legal process may seem confusing, but you don’t have to go through it alone. A Seattle car accident lawyer can handle the details while you focus on healing.
One of the first things a lawyer will do is investigate the accident. They will gather police reports, talk to witnesses, and even check surveillance footage to prove what happened. Next, they will calculate the full cost of your injuries, including medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional toll the accident has taken on your life.
Insurance companies often try to pay as little as possible, but your lawyer will negotiate to ensure you get the settlement you deserve. Your attorney can take the case to court if the insurance company refuses to be fair.
In addition, our personal injury lawyers handle claims on a contingency fee basis. This allows you to get trusted and effective legal assistance without paying anything unless we win your case. This allows accident victims to seek justice without worrying about upfront legal costs.
Contact Our Seattle Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured due to a reckless driver, you don’t have to face this alone. Our team at Bernard Law Group is here to help you seek justice and recover the compensation you deserve. Contact our Seattle car accident lawyer today for a free consultation. Let us handle the legal process while you focus on healing.
