Reckless driving represents a conscious decision to put other people at risk. The difference between a simple traffic violation and reckless driving often comes down to intent and severity.
While accidentally rolling through a stop sign might earn you a ticket, repeatedly running red lights while speeding demonstrates a willful disregard for safety that the law treats much more seriously.
If you’ve been injured by someone whose driving went beyond mere carelessness into truly dangerous territory, you have the right to take legal action with the help of a Milwaukee car accident lawyer.
The Legal Definition of Reckless Driving in Wisconsin
Wisconsin law takes reckless driving seriously. Under Wisconsin Statute 346.62, this act is defined as endangering the safety of any person or property through negligent vehicle operation.
An accident doesn’t have to happen for a driver to be arrested for reckless driving; the dangerous behavior itself violates the law.Â
When reckless driving does not result in bodily harm, the driver could face fines ranging from $50 to $400. The consequences become much more severe when reckless driving causes injuries; in this situation, the driver could face up to six years in prison and fines reaching $10,000.
Common Examples of Reckless Driving Behavior
Reckless driving encompasses various dangerous behaviors that show a blatant disregard for road safety. While some actions might seem like minor infractions, they can quickly escalate into situations that endanger everyone on the road.
You might encounter reckless driving in these forms:
- Excessive speeding, especially in residential areas or school zones
- Aggressive tailgating or following too closely at high speeds
- Weaving in and out of traffic without proper signaling
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Racing other vehicles on public roads
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Using mobile devices while driving in heavy traffic
- Making illegal turns or lane changes in dangerous conditions
- Driving the wrong way on one-way streets or highway ramps
Compensation for Reckless Driving Victims in Wisconsin
Wisconsin operates under a fault-based insurance system, meaning the driver who causes an accident bears financial responsibility for resulting damages. If you’ve been injured by a reckless driver, you have several legal options for seeking compensation.
You can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company or pursue a personal injury lawsuit against them.
You can recover various types of compensation after a reckless driving accident, including:Â
- Medical expenses for both immediate treatment and ongoing care
- Lost wages from time away from work
- Property damage to your vehicle and personal belongings
- Pain and suffering for the physical and emotional trauma you’ve endured
In cases involving particularly reckless behavior, you might also be entitled to punitive damages designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct.
To secure this additional compensation, you must prove that the defendant acted with malice, intentional disregard for your safety, or engaged in other conduct warranting punishment.
Connect with a Wisconsin Reckless Driving Attorney Today
Being involved in an accident with a reckless driver can be overwhelming and frightening. You deserve justice and full compensation for what you’ve been through—and a Wisconsin car accident lawyer can help you recover every dollar you are entitled to receive.Â
An experienced attorney will know how to prove the other driver’s behavior crossed the line from simple negligence into reckless conduct and establish your right to damages.
Contact an attorney at Cannon & Dunphy S.C. today to protect your rights and pursue the settlement you need to move forward.