In North Dakota, reckless driving is considered to be driving that shows a reckless disregard for the rights or safety of others or driving that is without due caution, circumspection, and in a manner that endangers or would likely endanger any person or another’s property. In other words, North Dakota considers any driving that puts people or property in danger to be reckless. It is dangerous and many can be needlessly injured when someone makes the choice to drive in a reckless manner. If you have been injured in a reckless driving accident in North Dakota due to someone else’s negligence, contact the car accident attorneys at Pringle & Herigstad.
Navigating Reckless Driving in North Dakota
North Dakota, like other states, recognizes the dangers posed by reckless driving. In fact, a person who engages in reckless driving may be charged with a Class B misdemeanor which could carry penalties including up to 30 days in jail and a fine up to $1,500. If an offender causes injury to another, they may be charged with aggravated reckless driving. This is a Class A misdemeanor and can carry a penalty of up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $3,000. Furthermore, these convictions will lead to eight demerit points being added to the offender’s driving record. For aggravated reckless driving, 12 points will be added. If a motorist accumulates enough points, they will likely have their license suspended.
As you can see, North Dakota takes this seriously and it is no wonder why. Injury victims of these accidents can suffer debilitating and long-lasting injuries. Because of the severity of the injuries that can result from a reckless driving accident, it can be troubling to consider how many different types of reckless driving behaviors can lead to such devastation. Some of the more common behaviors that result in accidents include:
- Speeding: Whether someone is in a hurry or is simply impatient, speeding is a reckless driving behavior that plagues U.S. roads. Unfortunately, speeding not only increases the likelihood of an accident occurring, but it can also lead to more severe injuries and property damage.
- Cutting off other drivers: Again, this behavior can be the result of someone being in a hurry or impatient. It can also be a side effect of road rage. The fact remains, however, that cutting people off is dangerous and can easily result in an accident occurring.
- Tailgating: Following too closely behind other drivers is another common behavior that often leads to an accident occurring. When you do not leave enough room between you and another vehicle, you will likely lack the time necessary to effectively brake to avoid an accident should the car in front of you ever slow down quickly or come to a sudden stop.
Common Injuries from Reckless Driving Accidents
The potential for harm in these situations is significant, as the momentum of a speeding vehicle colliding with another or the impact of sudden, erratic maneuvers can lead to devastating outcomes. Some common types of injuries sustained in accidents caused by reckless driving include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Bone Fractures
- Whiplash
- Internal Organ Damage
- Severe Burns
- Soft Tissue Injuries
- Cuts and Lacerations
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Fatalities
It is often the negligent driver who will carry the brunt where the fault is concerned. Other parties, however, could still be partially at fault for the accident. In order to establish fault, you will need evidence to support that someone else’s negligence led to the accident that caused you injury. Evidence may include everything from an accident report to pictures of the scene, to witness statements.
Contact Our North Dakota Reckless Driving Accident Attorneys
Have you been injured in a car accident? Do not delay in reaching out to the dedicated personal injury team at Pringle & Herigstad for assistance in pursuing monetary compensation for your losses. Contact us today.
Pringle & Herigstad, P.C. is committed to supporting individuals in North Dakota, including Grand Forks and Minot, as well as the surrounding areas, who have been injured from car accidents. Our dedicated team is here to provide legal assistance and guidance to those facing the complex challenges that arise from these incidents.
