Reckless driving is a criminal offense in Wisconsin. It is typically a misdemeanor—but it could even be charged as a felony in certain circumstances. Reckless driving is also negligent driving. If a reckless driver is responsible for causing an accident, he or she can be held legally responsible for the resulting damage. At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, we have the experience needed to handle reckless driving accident injury claims. Our firm fights for justice for victims and families. Here, our Wisconsin auto accident lawyers provide a more comprehensive overview of reckless driving, including the legal definition, the risk, and your rights after a crash.
What is Reckless Driving in Wisconsin?
Reckless driving is dangerous driving. Under Wisconsin law (Wisconsin Statutes § 346.62), “no person may endanger the safety of any person or property by the negligent operation of a vehicle.” Reckless driving in Wisconsin is defined as operating a motor vehicle with a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. Some of the most common examples of reckless driving in Wisconsin include:
- Extreme speeding;
- Weaving through traffic; and
- Ignoring traffic signals in a dangerous manner.
Note: A conviction for reckless driving can result in fines, license suspension, or even jail time. It is a serious traffic violation. A reckless driving offense can also lead to higher insurance rates.
Reckless Driving is Negligence
Beyond being a criminal offense, reckless driving is negligence. Broadly explained, negligence is the failure to exercise reasonable care. A reckless driver who causes an accident should be held liable for the resulting damages, including any injuries. Here are key reasons why reckless driving is such a serious roadway safety hazard in Wisconsin:
- A Dramatically Increased Risk of Accidents: Simply put, reckless driving dramatically raises the likelihood of a crash. Erratic behavior—such as driving through different lanes of traffic or running red lights—is inherently risky. These actions give other drivers less time to react. Studies show that reckless driving is one of the leading causes of accidents.
- Reckless Driving Reduces Reaction Time for All Drivers: Erratic driving behaviors like tailgating or rapid lane changes give surrounding drivers less time to make critical decisions. The reduced time to respond increases the chance of chain-reaction accidents, especially in heavy traffic. The lack of predictability forces other drivers to navigate a hazardous and stressful road environment. Reckless driving is inherently unpredictable—and that is a very serious safety hazard.
- A Major Threat to Pedestrian Safety: Pedestrian safety matters. Unfortunately, pedestrians are particularly vulnerable to reckless drivers. These drivers fail to yield the right of way, putting lives at immediate risk. In urban areas, reckless driving is a major contributor to pedestrian fatalities. Other road users, such as motorcyclists, also face a higher safety risk from reckless drivers.
- More Serious Injuries (And Fatalities): Finally, reckless driving crashes are more likely to be devastating crashes. Reckless driving often involves high speeds or dangerous maneuvers. Accidents caused by reckless drivers frequently result in life-altering injuries—from traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) to spinal cord damage. Tragically, fatalities are also more common in accidents involving reckless driving.
Wisconsin is a Fault-Based Motor Vehicle Accident State
Who is legally liable for a reckless driving accident? In Wisconsin, the at-fault driver can and should be held legally responsible. Wisconsin operates as a fault-based motor vehicle accident state. The driver (or other party) who is found to be responsible for causing the accident is liable for damages. For example, if a reckless driver causes a crash, they can be held accountable for injuries, property damage, and other losses sustained by victims. Fault is determined through evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction. Every motor vehicle crash should be thoroughly investigated by an experienced Wisconsin car accident attorney.
Reckless Driving Accident Victims Need Justice and Compensation
In Wisconsin, car accident victims have the right to seek compensation for the full value of their damages. Hurt in a reckless driving crash? It is imperative that you are able to secure the maximum financial support. Do not rely on any insurance company to look out for your best interests. Our Wisconsin car crash lawyers can help. You may be entitled to recover financial compensation for:
- Property loss, including vehicle repairs;
- Emergency medical treatment;
- Hospital bills and other medical costs;
- Loss of current and future wages;
- Pain and suffering;
- Long-term physical disability; and
- Wrongful death.
Know the Statute of Limitations for a Car Accident Injury Claim
Car accident injury claims are time-sensitive. Under Wisconsin law (Wisconsin Statutes § 893.54), there is a three year statute of limitations. In other words, you have three years from the date of a reckless driving crash in order to initiate a civil claim. If you fail to bring a legal claim in a timely manner, you could miss out on your opportunity to seek compensation at all. Take a proactive approach: Consult with a Wisconsin car accident lawyer right away after a reckless driving crash.
How Our Wisconsin Car Crash Lawyers Can Help With a Reckless Driving Crash Claim
Reckless driving accident claims are complicated. At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, we have extensive experience fighting for justice and the maximum financial compensation for injured victims. It is our mission to help clients secure the best possible results. Our Wisconsin personal injury attorneys provide free, confidential, and no obligation initial consultations to victims and their families after reckless driving crashes.
Contact Our Wisconsin Car Accident Attorney Today
At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, our Wisconsin car accident lawyers are standing by, ready to protect your rights. If you or your family member was hurt in a collision with a reckless driver, we are here to help. Reach out to us by phone at 608-784-4370 or connect with us online to set up your free, no obligation initial case review. With offices in Eau Claire, Onalaska, and La Crosse, we are well-positioned to represent reckless driving accident victims throughout the region.