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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that over half of deadly car crashes involve reckless or aggressive driving. If you're hurt in a car accident caused by a reckless driver, it's essential to seek a car accident lawyer. An experienced lawyer will help you understand your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
Read further to learn how Ohio defines reckless driving and how Cleveland lawyers from Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy are here to help get victims of reckless drivers the justice and compensation they deserve.
According to R.C. Section 4511.20, reckless driving in Ohio is defined as "operating a vehicle in a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of people or property." This law also covers reckless operation off-road or on watercraft. The offense is somewhat unclear, as it gives law enforcement or prosecutors the authority to decide if the conduct constitutes "willful and wanton disregard."
Reckless driving can come in many forms. Some examples include:
Reckless driving often leads to severe injuries, including:
Grasping the extent of your injuries is vital for maximizing compensation. Contact the car accident lawyers at Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy for guidance. We are well-versed in car accident cases and have a track record of attaining just compensation for our clients.
Ohio law allows victims to seek compensation for damages incurred in a car accident. These damages can include:
Economic damages cover your financial losses, including vehicle repairs or replacement. Typical monetary damages awarded in car accidents include:
Expenses for treatments, medications, and medical devices linked to the accident, present and future, could be compensated. Keep records of your medical expenses for a fair settlement.
You can seek compensation if your injury prevents you from working and you experience wage loss. Obtain a letter from your employer detailing your wage rate, hours missed, and total income loss due to the injury.
These damages lack a fixed value and must be quantified by your attorney for appropriate compensation. Non-economic damages in Ohio car accident cases include:
You can get compensation for physical discomfort and pain based on injury severity and recovery duration.
You can also receive compensation for psychological distress with proper documentation from medical professionals.
If your accident leads to losing emotional or sexual companionship with a partner, you may be eligible for this compensation. This type of compensation generally requires that you have proof of sexual disability.
In some situations, the court may award punitive damages if the defendant's actions are deemed intentional, grossly negligent, or reprehensible. While uncommon, punitive damages are a reminder of Ohio's strict stance against such conduct.
You must take specific steps to safeguard your rights and increase your chances of getting fair compensation. Here are some of the steps you should remember:
Reporting the accident to the police establishes an official record that can serve as crucial evidence for your case.
Even if you feel fine, seeing a doctor is essential. Some injuries, like concussions or whiplash, might have delayed symptoms.
Take pictures of the accident site and gather contact details from witnesses.
Seeking guidance from a skilled car accident lawyer specializing in motor vehicle accidents can help you understand your rights, explore options, and secure the compensation you’ll need to move forward with your life.
Irresponsible driving poses a significant threat on our roads. We must hold drivers responsible for any resulting injuries they are liable for. If you've been injured in a car accident due to reckless driving, let the Cleveland car accident lawyers here at Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy give you the legal guidance and support you deserve.
Contact us for a free consultation.
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