Information About Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is among the top causes for automobile accidents. People need to learn how to drive more carefully so they do not put themselves, their passengers and other motorists in danger. Prevention of reckless driving is imperative to reduce the number of deaths and injuries related to operating a vehicle.
Definition
Reckless driving involves operating a motor vehicle in an erratic manner with no regards to the safety of other drivers. It is different from other types of foul play, such as careless driving, which is the term for driving that unsafe but not without regard to others on the road. An example of careless driving would be failing to yield due to not seeing a sign.
Statistics
Every year, approximately 6 million car accidents happen in the United States. It has been estimated that 33 percent of these are caused by reckless driving. Common reasons for accidents caused by reckless driving include speeding, racing, tailgating and improper passing or lane change.
Penalties for Reckless Driving
There is a range of punishments given to those who are found driving recklessly. The offense is typically viewed as a misdemeanor on the person's criminal history. The poor driving may also lead to parole revocation, deportation, and suspension of driver's license or jail time.
State Laws on Reckless Driving
Because the term is so broad, laws for reckless driving vary based on the state. The phrase is used in every state in the USA, but the penalties may differ depending on where the erratic disregard for others on the road happened. For example, in Florida, the first conviction of reckless driving is sentenced up to 90 days in jail, is required to pay between $25 and $500 in fines or both. Every conviction thereafter results in up to six months in jail, a fine of $50 to $1000 or both.
Prevention in Young Drivers
In 2007, the Youth Reckless Driving Prevention campaign was launched to promote safe driving in teenagers. Car accidents are the number one cause of death for adolescents ages 16-21, so it is important that these drivers learn not to drive recklessly. The campaign has partnered with comedians Rob Riggle, Fred Willard and Rachael Harris to do their public service announcements.