Common Types of Reckless Driving

Reckless driving refers to any type of driving that completely disregards the safety of others on the road. Reckless driving is more likely to cause serious injuries to others and comes with harsher legal consequences than regular traffic violations. If you were recently pulled over for reckless driving, it’s important to consult with a traffic lawyer soon.

Here are some of the common types of reckless driving:

Excessive Speeding

If you’re just going five miles above the speed limit, you likely won’t be charged with reckless driving. On the other hand, if you drive 20 or more miles above the posted speed limit, you can receive a reckless driving charge. Driving that many miles above the speed limit is more likely to put others in serious danger.

Failing to Stop for School Buses

Drivers can also get charged with reckless driving if they don’t stop for school buses. When a bus stops to let on or discharge passengers, you’re required by law to stop your vehicle until the bus starts moving again.

Tailgating

Tailgating can result in much more than just a fender bender. If you’re following the vehicle in front of you too closely and the vehicle hits the brakes suddenly, you could swerve your car and get into a serious accident. To avoid this, always leave at least several car lengths between you and the vehicle in front of you.

Running Red Lights

While running red lights is an obvious no-no, some drivers still do it. No matter how much of a hurry you’re in, you should never run a red light. If the light turns yellow and you have enough time to stop your vehicle, you should. 

Too Many Passengers

It’s also possible to get charged with reckless driving if you have too many passengers in your vehicle. For example, you aren’t allowed to have more passengers than seat belts allow.

Not Making the Proper Turn Signals

If you forget to make one turn signal, you likely won’t be charged with reckless driving. However, if you’re caught not making several turn signals, you might face a reckless driving charge.

Cutting Other Drivers Off

Even if you don’t do it on purpose, cutting other drivers off can be very dangerous. In addition to hitting their vehicle, the other driver might swerve to avoid an accident and lose control of the vehicle.

Consulting With a Traffic Lawyer

If you were recently charged with reckless driving, it’s important to speak to a traffic lawyer as soon as possible. A reckless driving charge could have serious penalties, so it’s important to have an experienced and knowledgeable reckless driving lawyer in Abingdon, VA on your side.

Contact a traffic lawyer today to set up a free consultation.

Thanks to The Law Offices of Mark T. Hurt for their insight into traffic law and common types of reckless driving.