What Is Considered Reckless Driving In Wilmington, NC? 2024

Driving even under ideal conditions carries inherent risks. When drivers engage in reckless driving, they place the lives of others at risk. Reckless driving carries criminal consequences and civil liabilities. If you were injured due to driver misconduct, it is imperative that you fully understand what is considered reckless driving in Wilmington, NC.

What Is Reckless Driving in Wilmington?

North Carolina’s penal code specifically defines reckless driving as acts that carelessly and heedlessly disregard the safety of others on the road. Drivers have a responsibility to take steps to consider the safety of others. Obeying the speed limit, using turn signals, and remaining a safe distance behind vehicles are all acts that protect the safety of others.

Common examples of reckless driving include:

• Driving significantly over the speed limit, especially in areas with heavy traffic or pedestrian presence.
• Making dangerous lane changes, weaving in and out of traffic, or tailgating other vehicles.
• Running red lights or stop signs, failing to yield the right of way, or not obeying traffic signals and signs.
• Operating a vehicle while distracted (e.g., texting) or under the influence of alcohol or drugs, leading to erratic and unsafe driving behavior

The most common criminal charge given for someone who engages in reckless driving is a Class 2 misdemeanor that can lead to up to 60 days in jail. Even when someone is charged criminally, they can still be held accountable in civil court when the injured victim hires a personal injury lawyer.

What Do I Do After Being Hit By a Reckless Driver

If a reckless driver hits you, pull over if your car is still drivable. If the accident was serious, call 911. Try to move away from moving traffic if possible and wait for EMS and police to arrive.

If you are not seriously hurt and are able to safely do so, take photos or videos of the accident scene. Provide descriptions of the incident to the police so they can draft an official police report. You can request a copy of the report for your records.

EMS may ask to do a physical examination of you and your passengers to search for injuries. It is often advisable to schedule a full medical examination soon after the accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.

Schedule a consultation with a personal injury lawyer who can review your case to see who owes you compensation for your injuries. Even when the at-fault driver faces criminal charges, they can still be listed as the defendant in a personal injury claim through the civil courts.

What Are My Options if a Reckless Driver Hits Me?

If someone else’s reckless driving caused you physical harm, the at-fault driver is responsible for paying for your medical bills, lost wages, and other financial losses you suffered. One source of compensation could be the at-fault driver’s liability insurance policy.

Your attorney can work with the reckless driver’s car insurance carrier to negotiate a fair settlement that pays for expenses you incurred following the accident. Reckless drivers often cause catastrophic injuries. Your case may warrant direct legal action.

When someone engages in reckless driving, they often have a weak case from the get-go. Any judge or jury would often look unfavorably on any driver whose reckless actions injured innocent victims. Your lawyer can hold them accountable by demanding compensation so you do not suffer the financial consequences of someone else’s misconduct.

FAQs

Q: What Speed Is Considered Reckless Driving in North Carolina?

A: Speeding can be one of several factors that police consider when charging someone with reckless driving, which is typically a Class 2 misdemeanor in North Carolina. Speed limits vary widely, and cops will consider how far over the posted speed limit a driver travels when determining whether someone’s actions were reckless.

Q: What Are Common Examples of Reckless Driving in North Carolina?

A: Driving well over the speed limit, swerving erratically on the highway, tailgating, and brake checking are all common examples of reckless driving in North Carolina. Anyone who engages in reckless driving could face criminal charges and civil court liabilities in the state.

Q: When Should I Accept a Settlement Offer?

A: You should accept a fair settlement offer in close consultation with your personal injury attorney when the settlement fully compensates you for your injuries and any future expenses you will incur as a result of the car wreck.

You do not have to accept a settlement that does not fully compensate you for what you are owed. Your lawyer can provide counsel on the pros and cons of accepting specific settlement offers.

Q: Can I Take Legal Action Against Someone Even After They Are Arrested?

A: Yes. You can hire a personal injury attorney to take legal action against someone even when they face criminal charges. The civil courts do not give jail sentences, but they can demand that defendants pay plaintiffs for damages. If you were hit by someone who is currently facing criminal charges, you do not have to wait to start the personal injury claim process.

Q: Can a Reckless Driver Cause Pain and Suffering?

A: Car accidents commonly cause pain and suffering for victims of those collisions. Car accident victims report symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder following a car accident. Your personal injury lawyer can include pain and suffering as non-monetary damages when calculating your settlement.

Schedule Your Reckless Driving Consultation Today

Reckless driving is never acceptable. The acts of misconduct place the lives of all nearby drivers and passengers in grave danger. With the help of a personal injury attorney, you can hold the at-fault driver accountable in court. With experienced legal representation, you can be compensated for your injuries, lost wages, and other losses.

If you are considering taking legal action against someone who recklessly hit your car, you can rely on Christina Rivenbark & Associates to provide diligent legal representation for you as you pursue fair compensation for your injuries. To schedule your consultation, contact our office today.