Motorists making their way through the roads and freeways around Marietta, GA should be on the lookout for reckless drivers. Heavy traffic always increases the chances of accidents, but so long as everyone is observing the traffic laws, everyone should arrive at their destination unharmed.
Reckless driving is a common cause of car accidents. If you or a loved one was injured in such an accident, you should contact a Marietta reckless driving lawyer as soon as possible.
At the law offices of Diaz & Gaeta, we have considerable experience in reckless driving cases and standing up for the interests of our clients. Call [phone] today and arrange a FREE consultation with an experienced car accident lawyer in Marietta.
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What Is Considered Reckless Driving in Georgia?
According to Georgia Law, reckless driving is defined as a person “driving a vehicle with reckless disregard for the safety of other people or property.” But what does this mean? While there are no set standards for how this is defined exactly, generally this includes blatantly ignoring traffic guidelines.
There will be many instances in which the actions of the driver can lead to serious traffic accidents. Even small habits that may seem innocuous and have never been a problem before — like eating and driving— can one day result in a fatal car accident.
Here are a few other unsafe driving habits that can be considered “reckless driving.”
Speeding
While traveling at 5 mph over the speed limit doesn’t seem like a serious offense, even this minor infraction can increase the chances of a car accident. Speeds higher than the recommended speed limit reduce the capacity of the driver to maintain control over their vehicle.
Texting & Driving
We live in a world where we are connected to social and personal networks at all times of the day. It has become increasingly common for motorists to check their phones and messages while driving. But texting while driving is both dangerous and illegal in Georgia.
Running Red Lights
Running a traffic light places a driver and any motorists entering the intersection with the right of way in danger. It is important to always observe these traffic signals — lives are depending on them.
Tailgating
“Tailgating” is the term used to describe motorists following too closely behind a vehicle in front of them. A good distance between cars allows drivers to stop or change direction without placing other drivers at risk; the distance allows the time and space to maneuver safely.
Distracted Driving
Many things can fall into the category of distracted driving. Anything that takes your eyes, hands, or mind from the activity of SAFELY navigating your vehicle through traffic is considered a distraction. This includes, but is not limited to, texting,
Not Using Turn Signals
Perhaps it is laziness, or simply a bad habit, but drivers who fail to signal before turning increase the risks of an accident. Using turn signals can prevent serious accidents.
Road Rage
In addition to stress from work and other demands, driving through traffic can make the blood boil and cause drivers to behave and react irrationally and dangerously. Angry aggressive drivers are a danger to pedestrians and anyone else on or near the roads.
What Damages Can Victims Get from a Car Accident in Marietta, GA?
Compensation is available for the victims of accidents caused by reckless drivers. These damages are designed to relieve the financial strain and restore the quality of life to individuals and families whose lives have been impacted by reckless drivers.
These are the categories often used to describe the damages for which accident victims can seek compensation:
Financial Losses
Accidents always affect the victim and their family financially. There will be costs for medical expenses, lost wages, and the loss of earning capacity until a full recovery is made, if ever.
Disfigurement
Traffic accidents can be especially horrific, with many victims suffering from scarring and disfigurement that may last a lifetime. Compensation can cover the costs of all medical expenses related to the accidents as well as for the mental anguish caused by pain and suffering.
Property Losses
There will always be some sort of property damage related to an accident. For this reason, it is important to keep a careful collection of your valuables, such as the receipts for cell phones, costly jewelry, etc. This will make it easier to enter these items into your claim for compensation.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim in Marietta, Georgia?
There is a time limit for victims to make their claims for compensation in most states, called the statute of limitations. In the state of Georgia, the deadline for filing a personal injury case is two years from the date of the accident. We do not recommend waiting until the last minute, to get the case started as soon as possible while the evidence is still available to make a strong case.
Why Do I Need a Lawyer?
Some accidents may be very minor and include nothing more than property damage. These cases can usually be handled directly with the insurance company of the at-fault party. But in cases of extensive damage and personal injury, there are some very good reasons to have an experienced lawyer on hand to protect your interests. For example:
Case Preparation
An experienced Marietta reckless driving lawyer knows how to draw up a case, which details are important, and what the outcome will be to taking certain directions. This always adds a considerable advantage to your case and claim and can increase your chances of success considerably.
Settlement Negotiation
In most cases, compensation is obtained through a settlement with the insurance providers for the opposition. These insurance adjusters can be crafty in their pursuit to protect their interests and avoid making a payout. But an experienced reckless accident attorney will know how to defend your interests with skill. This can greatly increase the amount of compensation you can expect to receive.
Trial Preparation & Representation
If the insurance company doesn’t agree to reach a fair compensation award, your attorney will proceed to bring your case to trial, where it’s up to the jury to establish whether or not you are eligible for compensation. Your attorney will work to present the strongest case possible backed by compelling evidence to raise your chances of getting a favorable outcome.
How Much Does a Car Accident Lawyer Cost?
At Diaz & Gaeta, we fully understand that an accident can turn your life upside down and the last thing you need to concern yourself with is the high costs of legal representations. For this reason, we offer our skills, experience, and resources at no upfront cost.
We will shoulder all the risks and will collect our share from the compensation we collect when we win the case. You pay nothing if we don’t obtain compensation for you.
Got caught street racing? Diaz and Gaeta can help. 11 Alive News spoke to them about a case they were able to dismiss.
Review Your Claim With a Marietta Reckless Driving Lawyer!
Reckless driving is a common cause of car accidents. If you or a loved one was injured in such an accident, you should contact a reckless driving lawyer as soon as possible.
At the law offices of Diaz & Gaeta, we have considerable experience in reckless driving cases and standing up for the interests of our clients. Call 678-503-2780 today and arrange a FREE consultation with an experienced auto accident lawyer in Marietta.
