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. Reckless driving 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, know that you can pursue full and fair compensation for the harm you have suffered from the at-fault driver.
Navigating Reckless Driving
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 reckless driving 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 reckless driving 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.
In a reckless driving accident, it is often the reckless 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 which caused you injury. Evidence may include everything from an accident report to pictures of the scene, to witness statements.
North Dakota Reckless Driving Accident Attorneys
Have you been injured in a reckless driving 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.
