November 10, 2021
Under New Hampshire law, “reckless driving” occurs when a motorist operates their vehicle in a manner that presents a “substantial and unjustifiable” risk to others, and they were aware of the risk but disregarded the risk. Those engaging in this conduct may face serious criminal or civil penalties. In the context of civil law, reckless driving generally falls under the state’s negligent driving statute.
In New Hampshire, negligent driving refers to situations when a driver fails to meet their duty to exercise reasonable care for the safety of others on the road. While negligence does not always meet the standard of recklessness, the consequences can be the same. Both negligent and reckless driving can result in serious injuries or death to anyone in the vicinity of the motorist. The difference between these two types of conduct generally rests with the driver’s intent. While negligence tends to fall under the category of “careless” or “accidental,” recklessness requires an element of intent.
During a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit, the distinction may impact the amount of compensation that a victim recovers. Some common examples of reckless or aggressive driving are:
Data by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates that there are about 40 fatal accidents every year in New Hampshire related to speeding. The number does not include the number of accidents involving other forms of recklessness such as road rage, tailgating, and impermissible lane changes. This conduct can result in preventable, devastating accidents and injuries.
A recent New Hampshire news source reported that a man is facing criminal charges after an accident. Officers reported to the scene of an accident between a Jetta and Dodge pickup truck. According to reports before the crash, the Jetta driver was observed to be operating his vehicle erratically. Law enforcement explained that while neither party suffered physical injuries, the Jetta had front-end damage, and the pickup truck rolled. The claim is still under investigation; however, the Jetta driver was charged with felony reckless conduct with a deadly weapon.
New Hampshire accident victims may be entitled to damages related to their medical costs, ongoing physical or psychological treatment, pain and suffering, lost wages, and funeral or burial expenses.
Have You Suffered Injuries in a New Hampshire Car Accident?If you or someone you love has suffered injuries or died in a New Hampshire car accident involving another’s negligence, contact Peter Thompson & Associates. The lawyers at our office have significant experience securing favorable results for New Hampshire accident victims. Our law firm handles New Hampshire accidents involving reckless and negligent drivers, slip-and-falls, construction site accidents, animal bites, dangerous products, nursing home negligence, medical malpractice, and wrongful death. The top-rated lawyers at our firm provide clients with respect and compassion while fiercely advocating for the compensation they deserve. Contact our office at 1-800-804-2004 to schedule a free initial consultation with a New Hampshire accident attorney. Calling is free, and we will not bill you for our legal representation unless we can recover compensation on your behalf.