Traffic accidents generally stem from careless actions behind the wheel. Failing to look before changing lanes and not using a turn signal are some examples. But reckless driving causes some crashes, which is much more serious because it involves acting with disregard for the safety of others.
That was the case in the recent tragedy involving an eight-month-old girl killed when a bus driver lost control and hit a light pole, which then struck her stroller. Seven other people were also injured.
The Queens driver was charged with reckless driving. He was using a cell phone at the time of the accident. Although the crash occurred in New Jersey, the state has laws similar to those in New York regarding the use of cell phones. All handheld devices are banned. But their laws go even further in that bus drivers cannot use handheld or hands-free devices.
Determining If Reckless Driving Was the Cause of an Accident
One of the more common examples of reckless driving is operating the vehicle while impaired. Another is when someone speeds excessively or races.
However, other actions behind the wheel can be difficult to distinguish between carelessness and recklessness. In some cases, reckless driving can apply to other acts of negligence such as using a cell phone, driving at night without headlights, going through a stoplight or stop sign, and other infractions where the motorist knew the risk of his or her actions.
With the challenges of proving that someone drove negligently or recklessly and caused injuries or death, it’s generally a good idea to seek legal advice. Call (800) 246-4878 to set up a consultation with an attorney at Gacovino, Lake & Associates to discuss the case.
