Driving is a responsibility and privilege that should be taken seriously by all motorists. Some drivers handle their vehicles without taking their own safety or the safety of others in mind. This is called reckless driving, and its consequences can be devastating for victims. Motorists who drive their vehicles carelessly are demonstrating poor judgment and blatant disregard for traffic laws and courtesies. Below are the main 4 types of reckless driving.
1. Tailgating
Tailgating occurs when a driver follows too closely behind another vehicle. When one car is too close to another, it does not provide either driver with adequate space to safely brake. Tailgating takes two forms, passive and aggressive. Passive tailgating is not intentional, but it is a sign that the driver is not paying enough attention to responsible driving habits. Aggressive tailgating is done deliberately as a dangerous method to get the other vehicle to drive faster.
2. Speeding
Drivers put everyone at risk when they engage in speeding. Speed limits are intended to prevent car crashes, regulate traffic flow and make everything easier for everyone on the road. Any type of racing is also dangerous. This type of reckless driving is not only disrespectful to other drivers; it is dangerous and violates traffic laws.
3. Passing in a no-passing zone
Some parts of the road are determined to be no-passing zones. These distinctions exist to keep accidents from occurring. Most of the time, a double yellow line marks such sections of road. Drivers who blatantly disregard these no-passing zones cause other drivers to have difficulty predicting how to drive safely and defensively.
4. Ignoring traffic signals
Traffic signals provide predictability and stability to driving. They also help smooth the flow of traffic to prevent obstructions and accidents. Motorists who race or even cruise through traffic signals are gambling with safety.
Reckless driving is a traffic offense that should be taken seriously. Taking part in any of the above acts can compromise everyone’s safety and result in a reckless driving charge. When you obey the rules of the road and drive safely, you can avoid creating more risks for yourself and others. That is the great thing about learning about reckless driving: it is preventable. Now that you are more aware of this risky behavior, you can make the conscious decision to stop. If you have been charged with reckless driving or another incident on the road, you may benefit from discussing the events with a qualified attorney with expertise in motor vehicle accidents.