What is considered “reckless driving” in California?
California Vehicle Code 23103 defines reckless driving as operating a motor vehicle with a willful or disregard for the safety of other people or property.
Some common scenarios that constitute reckless driving are:
Speeding through a school zone
Performing donuts and/or burnouts
Drag racing or street racing
Is reckless driving a crime?
Reckless driving is a crime; it is a misdemeanor that is punishable by the following:
A maximum stay of 90 days in jail
A minimum fine of $145 and a maximum fine of $1,000
And 2 negligent operator points on the person’s driver’s license.
What happens if a reckless driver hits me in a car accident?
If someone gets hit and injured in a car accident that involved reckless driving, the injured party may have grounds to pursue punitive damages as part of their compensation.
Extreme recklessness or gross negligence, such as in situations involving extreme speeding, street racing or running red lights, can demonstrate a conscious disregard for the potential harm that others may suffer in an accident.
An experienced accident lawyer can help reinforce a claim for punitive damages based on the at-fault driver’s gross negligence and advocate for the maximum compensation that an injured person deserves.
If you have been hit and injured in a car accident that was caused by a reckless driver who was seriously speeding, racing or weaving between cars, don’t wait to win!
Contact the expert attorneys of Win Nguyen Law to hear your legal options and learn more about your case at no upfront cost to you! We are proud to serve the communities of Westminster, Garden Grove, Fountain Valley, Santa Ana, Anaheim, Irvine and more to help spread awareness for locals to better protect themselves and their legal rights.
