There is a difference between driving over the speed limit and reckless driving. However, this difference is often unclear and is under law enforcement’s discretion to determine the charge. This makes it very difficult to know when someone has crossed the threshold and started driving recklessly.
If you were injured by a reckless driver in Encino, California, call The Law Offices of Rosenstock and Azran. We have decades of experience serving the community of Encino and will fight for your rights. Set up an initial consultation today.
What are some examples of reckless driving?
California law describes reckless driving as a willful disregard for the safety of individuals or property. Some examples are:
- Street racing
- Swerving across several lanes
- Driving the wrong way in a one-way street
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Not respecting the stop sign displayed by a school bus
- Driving on the sidewalk.
- Cell phone use, texting, or eating while driving
- Running red lights or stop signs
Common Injuries Caused by Reckless Driving
By its very dangerous nature, reckless driving results in a variety of injuries, some of which can be severe. Some of the most common ones caused by reckless driving behavior include:
Head injuries – These can range from concussions to traumatic brain injuries with lifelong consequences.
Whiplash – Whiplash is one of the most frequent injuries sustained by victims of reckless driving accidents. This happens when the head is suddenly jerked forward and back, resulting in damage to ligaments, tendons, muscles, and the vertebrae of the neck.
Back and spinal cord injuries – Back injuries may include herniated discs while spinal cord injuries can lead to paralysis and permanent disability.
Broken bones – Broken bones are common, particularly when high speeds are involved. Victims may have to deal with more than one broken bone at once.
Internal bleeding – When internal organs are damaged due to the impact of the crash, they may be accompanied by internal bleeding. While in some cases these injuries are painful and obvious, others require a complete medical checkup to be discovered and treated.
PTSD – Being involved in a reckless driving accident and sustaining injuries can be quite traumatic. It is common for victims of reckless driving accidents to have mental health issues following the accident. This includes fearing getting behind the wheel again, having palpitations when driving by the accident scene, being unable to sleep, and many other symptoms.
Talk to us about your injuries. This will help us understand your losses and if you have reached the point of maximum improvement. The more information we have, the easier it is for us to place an accurate value on your case
What are the charges for reckless driving in Encino, California?
In Encino, California, reckless driving is classified as a misdemeanor and, as such, can result in the following penalties:
- Fines from $145 to $1,000
- Jail time of up to 90 days
Additionally, you can expect your car insurance rates to increase.
Alcohol-Related Reckless Driving
When a reckless driving charge involves alcohol, it is defined as wet reckless. Wet reckless is more likely to lead to imprisonment. In many cases, a wet reckless charge can be managed through a plea deal for a reduction in charges from a DUI charge. It is uncommon for a wet reckless to be charged on its own. In certain cases, there are reasons that make it impossible for the police or the prosecutors to prove a straight DUI offense.
Penalties for a wet reckless charge include:
- Jail time for a maximum of 90 days
- 1 to 2 years probation
- Up to 12 hours of mandatory alcohol education or substance abuse programs
Although a wet reckless driving charge will count as a prior drunk driving offense, it is generally a lesser penalty than a DUI conviction. A DUI carries up to 5 years probation and a court-ordered 6-month license suspension. Also, any DMV administrative license suspension will apply.
Get Legal Help Now
At The Law Offices of Rosenstock and Azran, we have worked tirelessly to defend all our clients who have been injured as the result of a reckless driving accident. We have represented many individuals who have suffered injuries and losses in a reckless driving accident and have a proven record of success. We will take every step to fight for your rights and get you the compensation you deserve. Let us hear your story at a no-obligation consultation. There is no time to waste so call today!