Were you in an accident caused by a reckless driver?

On Behalf of | Jan 4, 2023 | Car Accidents |

Although most drivers traveling on Massachusetts roads are responsible and safe, some behave recklessly. When that happens, people can get into a car accident and sustain injuries. If this has happened to you, these are the steps you can take.

What to do after a reckless driving accident

Contact the police. By law, the police must be called to the scene of any motor vehicle accident resulting in an injury or property damage over a specified amount. An officer will make an accident report; you can ask where to obtain a copy for your records. Get the name and badge number of the responding officer.

Exchange information with the reckless driver, but don’t make conversation. Although Massachusetts is a no-fault state and you have to go through your own insurance company to cover the costs of your damages, you may still need to sue them directly. Take photos of the accident scene, the road, traffic conditions and the weather. Anything pertinent could strengthen your claim.

Not all injuries are immediately apparent. Your body naturally pumps adrenaline after an accident, so you might not feel the effects of your injury until hours or days later. Even if you feel fine, it’s best to err on the side of caution and seek medical attention. Medical records can also back up your accident claim when you need to recover your out-of-pocket expenses.

Examples of reckless driving

Reckless driving is any type of aggressive or illegal practice behind the wheel that puts everyone else at risk. One of the most common examples is speeding or drag racing. Weaving in and out of lanes, not using signals to warn other drivers and ignoring traffic signs and road rules are also considered reckless driving.

Tailgating and road rage as a whole are other examples of reckless driving. These practices show disregard for other drivers, their passengers and pedestrians and can easily lead to car accidents.

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