Motorists on Maryland highways and others throughout the nation owe a duty of care to others on those roads. If your car is struck by a driver who breached that duty of care, you may be entitled to compensation for any losses you incurred because of that person’s actions.
Reckless driving explained
Essentially, reckless driving occurs when a motorist takes actions that a reasonable person would know to be dangerous. For instance, a reasonable person should know that driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is dangerous. That person would also likely understand that traveling 80 miles per hour on an icy road could lead to an accident. Other examples of reckless driving include driving through a red light, turning left into oncoming traffic or failing to yield for pedestrians at a crosswalk.
Proving you were hurt by a reckless driver
You must be able to prove that a reckless driver caused your motor vehicle accident to obtain compensation. This may be done by using a toxicology report to show that the other driver had a blood alcohol content twice the legal limit when the wreck happened. Cellphone records may be used to show that the defendant made a phone call just seconds before the car accident took place. Typically, distracted driving is considered to be negligent or reckless operation of a motor vehicle.
Typically, motor vehicle accident cases are resolved through a negotiated settlement. The amount you receive may be reduced if you’re found partially liable for the accident. If necessary, a case can be taken to trial to obtain the best possible outcome in your matter. State law says you have three years after the accident date to file a lawsuit.