Both reckless and aggressive driving put other drivers, passengers, and motorists in danger. In the US, reckless driving is a serious traffic violation that usually comes from someone driving a vehicle without thinking about their own or others’ safety. On the other side, aggressive driving occurs when a driver continually breaks the regulations of the road in an effort to risk other motorists. You should schedule a free consultation with your attorney if you are involved in a reckless or aggressive car accident.
The difference between reckless and aggressive driving
Reckless driving
Reckless driving is defined by any of the following behaviors by a driver:
- Driving recklessly, either at an overly fast or slow pace, threatening the safety of others
- Passing another vehicle in a no-pass zone or on a slope or turn when visibility may be reduced
- Weaving continuously in and out of traffic
- Passing school buses that have stop signs when they are moving slowly
Aggressive driving
When a motorist exhibits any of the following, it is considered aggressive driving:
- Too closely following a vehicle
- Slowing down or stopping in an unsafe way
- Failure to follow the rules
- The act of driving the vehicle off the road
- Ignoring traffic lights and signs
- Continually blowing a siren or flashing lights
Legal differences between aggressive and reckless driving
While every kind of driving is risky, reckless driving and aggressive driving have different legal consequences. Driving carelessly typically refers to driving a vehicle without considering the safety of other people or personal property. Reckless driving is punishable by a Class B misdemeanor, which carries a maximum $1,000 fine and a potential jail term. Reckless driving may also have more legal consequences, such as a suspended license and a potential lawsuit when someone is hurt.
Aggressive driving is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in prison and a $5,000 fine. If a laborer is hurt due to a driver’s aggressive driving in a construction zone, felony charges against the offender can be brought. A Class D felony may be filed for injuries in a work zone, while a Class C felony may be filed for murdering an employee while driving recklessly.
What to Do After an Auto Accident
Following an accident involving you or a loved one, you should take the following steps to ensure your safety:
- Keep your cool and never leave your car.
- Check your own and others’ bodies for injuries.
- Initiate a police call
- Capture the incident
- Gathering data from witnesses
- Seek out medical help
- Notify the insurance company of the incident
Speak with the legal team at WKW