Reckless Driver Car Accident Lawyers in Ohio

Injured by a Reckless Driver in Ohio? Know Your Rights.

Per Ohio Revised Code 4511.20, reckless driving is defined as “willful or wanton disregard of the safety of persons or property.” Unfortunately, reckless driving is a common occurrence that leads to serious accidents and injuries. If you are involved in an accident resulting from someone else’s negligence, you should reach out to our highly skilled Ohio reckless driving accident lawyers at Kisling, Nestico, & Redick. Our Ohio car accident lawyers may be able to help you obtain compensation for your damages.

For a free consultation of your case with an experienced attorney, call KNR today at 1-800-HURT-NOW.

What’s Considered Reckless Driving in Ohio?

There are a variety of reckless driving behaviors that can put motorists and pedestrians in danger. Some examples of reckless driving behaviors that are often seen in Ohio include:

• Speeding
• Tailgating
• Braking abruptly
• Texting, eating, or engaging in any other distracting activities
• Changing lanes or turning illegally
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Failing to use turn signals or headlights at night
• Failing to stop at lights or stop signs

Penalties for Reckless Driving in Ohio

Ohio takes reckless driving seriously. Most reckless driving offenses are minor misdemeanors that come with a small fine. However, if you have been convicted of another traffic offense within the past year, you will be charged with a fourth-degree misdemeanor. Additionally, if you have been convicted of two or more traffic offenses within the past year, you will be charged with a third-degree misdemeanor.

A fourth-degree misdemeanor may lead to up to 30 days in jail and fines reaching $250. A third-degree misdemeanor could cause you to spend up to 60 days in jail while paying fines of up to $500.

Why Do People Drive Recklessly?

People engage in reckless driving for a plethora of reasons. Often, they do not even realize they are driving recklessly. This can cause serious accidents. People drive recklessly because they:

• Do not care about hurting themselves or others.
• Do not want to stop at lights or signs.
• Are fleeing from the police.
• Are late or impatient.
• Unaware of traffic laws or consequences.

When reckless driving leads to an accident, victims may suffer from serious injuries such as whiplash, lacerations, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, back injuries, and neck injuries. If you’ve sustained injuries due to a negligent driving accident, contact our reckless driving accident lawyers right away.

How to Respond to a Reckless Driver & Avoid Becoming One

You should always be on the lookout for reckless drivers and know how to respond whenever you see one. By following these tips, you can keep yourself safe and reduce your risk of becoming involved in a reckless driving accident.

• Adhere to all traffic laws.
• Drive defensively.
• Refrain from honking you horn at reckless drivers.
• Avoid flashing your lights at reckless drivers.
• Keep your seat belt buckled at all times.
• Call the police and report any reckless drivers you see.
• Resist the urge to make eye contact or rude gestures at reckless drivers.

In addition to responding appropriately to reckless drivers, you should make an effort to avoid becoming one. Here’s how you can ensure that you drive safely and resist the temptation to engage in reckless driving behaviors:

Leave early.

You’re far more likely to drive recklessly if you’re late. Therefore, try to leave early and give yourself extra time to get to your destination.

Control road rage.

If you find it a challenge to stay calm while driving, listen to soothing music and/or breathe deeply. Keeping calm will reduce your risk of causing a reckless driving accident.

Do not drive under the influence.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs almost always leads to reckless driving. If you know you’ll be drinking, find a designated driver or invest in a taxi or ride-sharing service.

What to Do After a Reckless Driving Accident

Immediately after a reckless driving accident, you should call the police. This way, you can obtain a police report that can help you in a personal injury claim if you choose to file one. Then, you should take pictures of the accident scene and collect the contact information and insurance details of the other driver.

Next, you should visit the doctor and seek medical attention. By doing so, you can get treated for your injuries and ensure they are properly documented. Lastly, consult our reckless driving accident lawyers. They will gather evidence and witness testimony, determine an appropriate amount of damages you should be due, and speak to the other driver’s insurance company to make sure that you do not receive a low-ball settlement.

Frequently Asked Questions About Reckless Driving Accidents in Ohio

Is Reckless Driving the Same as Negligence in a Personal Injury Case?

Not exactly. While both involve a failure to drive safely, reckless driving implies intent or extreme disregard, whereas negligence is generally unintentional. In personal injury claims, reckless driving may support punitive damages or increase liability for the at-fault party. This distinction can be legally significant and should be evaluated by an experienced Ohio accident attorney.

Can I Sue a Driver for Reckless Driving in Ohio?

Yes. You can file a personal injury claim if you were injured in an accident caused by someone else’s reckless behavior. A civil lawsuit allows you to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Criminal penalties for the driver do not prevent you from pursuing your own case—and often strengthen it.

How Do I Prove the Other Driver Was Driving Recklessly?

Proving reckless driving requires evidence such as police reports, witness testimony, dashcam or surveillance footage, and expert accident reconstruction. A skilled Ohio personal injury lawyer can subpoena relevant documents, interview witnesses, and compile a compelling case to demonstrate that the at-fault driver acted with gross disregard for safety.

Are Criminal Charges Required to File a Civil Lawsuit?

No. A civil personal injury claim is separate from any criminal proceedings the state may pursue. Even if the reckless driver isn’t charged—or is acquitted—you can still file a civil lawsuit to seek financial compensation. Civil cases require a lower standard of proof (“preponderance of the evidence”) than criminal trials.

How Long Do I Have to File a Reckless Driving Lawsuit in Ohio?

Under Ohio’s statute of limitations, you generally have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline could forfeit your right to compensation. It’s best to consult a lawyer as soon as possible to preserve evidence and meet all filing requirements.

What Injuries Commonly Result From Reckless Driving Accidents?

Reckless driving often leads to high-impact collisions that cause severe injuries such as traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord damage, fractures, internal bleeding, and soft tissue injuries. These injuries may require extensive treatment and long-term rehabilitation. Documenting the full scope of your injuries is critical to recovering fair compensation.

How Much Is My Reckless Driving Accident Claim Worth?

The value of your case depends on multiple factors, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and whether permanent injuries occurred. Cases involving reckless conduct may also be eligible for punitive damages, which are intended to punish the driver and deter similar behavior. KNR will evaluate your case thoroughly and fight for the maximum compensation you are entitled to under Ohio law.

Hurt by a Negligent Driver? Contact Our Reckless Driving Accident Lawyers

If you’ve been hurt in a reckless driving accident, it is in your best interest to contact the Ohio reckless driving accident lawyers of Kisling, Nestico & Redick right away. With our legal representation by your side, you may be able to secure compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Contact us today at 1-800-HURT-NOW to schedule a free, initial case consultation.