Atlanta Reckless Driving Accident Lawyer

Reckless driving is a common occurrence on the roads today, especially in congested cities and traffic areas. The aftermath of a car accident can be a disorienting and painful experience. You may have suffered physical or emotional injuries, or have needed to take extended time off work. Your medical bills could be piling up trying to recover from the accident that was caused by someone else. An Atlanta reckless driving accident lawyer at Merritt & Merritt Law Firm, we understand the challenges you face when you’ve been injured by a reckless driver in Georgia. Our dedicated legal team is committed to advocating for individuals like you, ensuring your rights are protected and you have the best possible chance to recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us today 404-975-1775.

Understanding Reckless Driving Under Georgia Law

Reckless driving is not limited to a few specific actions; rather, it includes any driving behavior that demonstrates a clear disregard for the well-being of others or their property. Common examples of actions that can be classified as reckless driving in Georgia include driving at excessive speeds, particularly in areas where there is a higher risk to pedestrians or reduced visibility.

Aggressive lane changes, such as weaving through traffic without signaling, cutting off other vehicles, or improperly using the shoulder to pass, also fall under this category.

Ignoring traffic signals, like running red lights or stop signs, and failing to yield the right-of-way are further examples of reckless behavior that puts others at risk.
Engaging in street racing on public roads is explicitly considered reckless driving due to the inherent dangers involved.

Tailgating, or following another vehicle too closely, creating a situation where there is insufficient time to react and avoid a collision, is another dangerous behavior that can be deemed reckless.
Reckless stunt driving, which includes activities like drag racing or intentionally causing a vehicle to lose traction (“laying drags”) in a manner that endangers people, is also a serious offense. Even seemingly less obvious actions, such as operating a vehicle while significantly distracted by activities like texting or using social media, can be considered reckless if it leads to unsafe driving Finally, while driving under the influence (DUI) is a separate criminal charge, the act of driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs often demonstrates a profound recklessness and disregard for the safety of everyone on the road.

Reckless Driving Statistics in Georgia

Unfortunately, reckless driving is a common occurrence in Georgia and poses a significant threat to public safety. Data shows that reckless driving accidents have doubled in Georgia in the last 9 years. In fact, Georgia has experienced record-high numbers of fatalities attributed to reckless driving in recent years. The situation is particularly concerning in urban areas, with Atlanta being ranked as the most dangerous driving city in the United States in 2023, which means your chances of being in an accident caused by reckless driving are high in Georgia, especially Atlanta. If you do find yourself in such an accident, it is best to call an Atlanta reckless driving accident lawyer at Merritt & Merritt Law Firm at 404-975-1775 as soon as possible to have a dedicated attorney fighting for your rights.

Common Injuries Suffered in Reckless Driving Accidents

The sheer force and impact involved in accidents caused by reckless driving often lead to severe and life-altering injuries for the victims. The types of injuries sustained can vary widely depending on the specifics of the crash, but some common injuries frequently occur in these situations. Head and brain injuries such as concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI), neck and back injuries, bone fractures,soft tissue injuries, internal injuries, cuts, bruises, and lacerations, and burn injuries can all occur in accidents caused by reckless driving.

Beyond the physical trauma, it is crucial to acknowledge the significant emotional and psychological impact of being involved in a reckless driving accident. Many victims experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders as a result of the traumatic event. These emotional and psychological wounds can be just as debilitating as the physical injuries and can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.

The injuries sustained in reckless driving accidents can have long-lasting and devastating consequences. Victims may face chronic pain, long-term disability, loss of mobility, and an inability to perform everyday activities. In many cases, these injuries prevent individuals from returning to work, leading to significant financial hardship in addition to the physical and emotional suffering. Recognizing the potential severity and long-term impact of these injuries underscores the importance of seeking appropriate medical care and qualified legal representation from Merritt & Merritt Law Firm to understand your rights and options for recovery.

Negligence in Georgia

In the state of Georgia, you must be able to prove that the reckless driver was negligent in their actions that caused the accident. Every driver on the roads of Georgia has a duty to drive safely and follow traffic laws. If a driver does not do so, they are most likely being negligent, and could cause an accident based on that negligence. Driving recklessly would be considered driving negligent in the state of Georgia, but you must show how the driver was driving negligently. For example, was the driver speeding, changing lanes erratically, or did you notice that they were texting and driving at the same time? These circumstances could all be examples of situations that lead to reckless driving accidents. If their negligent actions do lead to a reckless driving accident that causes your injuries, then you must show that the injuries you suffered was a direct cause of that accident, in other words, the injuries could not be caused by anything else.

In order to file a personal injury lawsuit in Georgia, you must prove that you were not over 50% at fault for the accident. If you are found at fault for 0%-49% of the accident, then any compensation that you recover will be reduced by this percentage. For example, if you are found to be 30% at fault for the accident, but the other party is 70% at fault, then your compensation that you are awarded will be reduced by 30%, or the amount you were at fault for the accident.

Another point to remember that is important is that in the state of Georgia, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim for personal injury compensation. If you file a claim after the two year statute of limitations has passed, then you may have missed your opportunity to claim any compensation for your injuries. The legal process of personal injury claims can be very complex and time consuming, so it is best you have an experienced Atlanta reckless driving accident lawyer from Merritt & Merritt Law Firm to handle everything in your case for you so you can focus on recovering.

Recoverable Damages in Reckless Driving Cases

When you suffer from an accident that was caused by a reckless driver, you may have many injuries that need medical attention, or you may also have damage to your physical belongings such as your car that need to be repaired. You may also suffer from emotional symptoms, such as PTSD or emotional distress from the accident itself that appear months later. Paying for these injuries to be repaired could cost thousands in medical and mechanical repair bills.

Getting compensated for these injuries can be stressful, and the insurance companies may not cover all of your costs. This is when an attorney will make sure you get the compensation you need. We will handle everything from gathering evidence of the accident, to police reports, medical records, and will help negotiate with the insurance agencies to try and get a reasonable settlement amount. If the settlement amount is not to your satisfaction, then we are prepared to take your matter to court and represent your rights in front of a judge. At Merritt & Merritt Law Firm, an Atlanta reckless driving accident lawyer will ensure you get compensated not only for injuries you suffered already, but any future injuries or lost wages you may incur. Call us today at 404-975-1775 to get a free evaluation and get started on getting your compensation today.

Contact an Atlanta Reckless Driving Accident Lawyer from Merritt & Merritt Law Firm

At Merritt & Merritt Law Firm, we are deeply committed to helping individuals who have been injured by the reckless driving of others in Georgia. We understand the significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens that you and your family may be facing in the aftermath of such an accident. Our experienced team is here to provide you with the compassionate support and skilled legal representation you need to navigate the complex legal process and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact an Atlanta reckless driving accident lawyer from Merritt & Merritt Law Firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss the specifics of your case. We will take the time to listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your legal rights and options. Let us put our experience and dedication to work for you, so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life. Call us today at 404-975-1775. We are here to help you on your road to recovery.