Brockton Reckless Driving Accident Lawyer

If you or someone in your family has sustained injuries due to the reckless driving of another motorist in Massachusetts. You may be entitled to compensation that will aid in the recovery process. To increase the value of your case and your chances of getting full compensation, you will need to retain the services of a reputable Brockton reckless driving accident lawyer.

Call the Law Offices of Robert Shea, a local specialist in reckless driving and personal injury cases at 508.510.5107 to arrange a FREE consultation. Our car accident attorneys will review the details of your case and provide expert direction on what to do next.

Types of Reckless Driving in Brockton, Massachusetts.

Reckless Driving or Driving to Endanger is defined as “…operating a vehicle in a way that endangers public safety…” by Chapter 90, section 24 of the Massachusetts General Law. Here are some of the most common examples of reckless driving according to traffic laws in Brockton, MA.

• Careless driving
• Driving while intoxicated or impaired
• Distracted driving
• Ignoring Traffic Signs
• Swerving
• Tailgating
• Speeding

Reckless Driving Under Massachusetts Law

As mentioned, Massachusetts General Law Section 24(2)(a) provides a definition for reckless driving and mentions drag racing specifically. However, the definition of reckless driving is especially broad and law enforcement have plenty of wiggle-room when determining what constitutes a reckless driving infraction.

Is reckless driving a felony or misdemeanor?

In Massachusetts, reckless driving is considered a misdemeanor, but it can be elevated to a criminal charge in some cases. In addition to a suspended license, reckless drivers may also face fines and even incarceration in more extreme cases.

Here is what you should know about Reckless Driving Penalties:

• First Time Offender — $50 – $500 dollar fines or incarceration of 30 days to 2 years.
• Second Time Offender — Fine of $600 to $1000 and imprisonment of 60 days to 2 and ½ years.
• Third-time Offenders — $1500 to $25,000 and imprisonment of 1 and 1/2 years to 5 years.

Reckless Driving Convictions

To be convicted of reckless driving in Massachusetts, three things must be proven about the incident, beyond a reasonable doubt:

• The defendant was operating the motor vehicle.
• The defendant’s reckless actions took place in a public area, such as a public street or highway.
• The defendant’s driving was reckless inasmuch as it reasonably could have resulted in the death or injury of another person.

Steps to Take to Prevent a Reckless Driving Accident

As a motorist operating a vehicle in Brockton, Massachusetts, here are some important ways you can prevent a reckless driving accident.

Allot plenty of time to get to your final destination

By allowing for plenty of time to get to your destination, you will not be pressed for time and stressed, which can urge you to drive faster

Always wear your glasses or contact lenses when driving

It is far more likely that an accident will occur if the driver can’t clearly see the road. If you need corrective lenses to drive, make sure you are wearing these when operating a motor vehicle.

Keep road rage in check

Driving can be stressful in itself, in addition to giving yourself time to arrive at your destination, do what you can to keep yourself calm and collected.

Keep fully aware and mindful of your surroundings

Many mistakes can happen in a momentary lapse of awareness. Always keep your attention on the road ahead and awareness on your peripheral vision and rearview mirrors.

Keep a safe distance

You may be driving very carefully, but the others on the road may not. Make sure you allow plenty of room on the road to avoid a collision if another motorist swerves, brakes or changes lanes without signaling.

Don’t drive distracted

Anything that takes your mind, hands or eyes from the task of operating your vehicle can be considered a distraction to driving and can place you at serious risk of an accident.

Follow traffic laws

Traffic laws are not guidelines or suggestions. Make sure you are following all traffic laws to prevent a serious accident.

How Much Does a Car Accident Lawyer Cost?

The aftermath of a car accident can mean serious financial implications. The last thing on the mind of an accident victim and their families are the high financial costs of legal representation. For this reason, our lawyers offer our initial consultations, through investigative services, case preparation, negotiations with insurance providers, and the entire gamut of legal services at no upfront costs.

Actually, we don’t charge our clients a thing for our services unless we win the case and obtain the compensation needed to make a recovery from the accident. Because our fees are contingent on our winning the case, this is called the “contingency fee” arrangement.

What Should I Do After a Reckless Driving Accident?

The wake of a car accident can be confusing and made worse by emotional upset. But it will be very important to keep a level head and act to preserve your interests and the strength of your case. Here are some key pointers to keep in mind:

Contact the Police

The police report on the incident is a crucial component of a strong personal injury case. Make sure you note the names and badge numbers of the police at the scene so you can get a copy of the report.

Check On Other Involved Parties

If it is safe to do so and your injuries permit, make sure you and the others involved in the accident are safe.

Exchange Information

Copy down the names, insurance information, contact information and license plates of the other drivers involved in the accident.

Record the Scene

Take pictures of the accident for future examination. Take pictures of the vehicles involved, pints of impact, damage, injuries and traffic signals in the vicinity.

Never Admit Fault

Make sure you don’t say or do anything that could threaten the validity of your case. Even an innocuous “I’m sorry!” could be taken as an admission of guilt.

Seek Medical Attention

Have your injuries examined by a medical professional who can ascertain the extent of your injuries. Remember, not all serious injuries are immediately apparent.

Call A Car Accident Lawyer!

Finally, make sure you have called a legal professional who can handle the legal details while you focus on recovery.

File Your Claim With Our Brockton Reckless Driving Accident Lawyers

If you have been involved in a reckless driving accident in Brockton, Massachusetts, your future could be severely impacted in the short- and long-term. It is imperative that you do what you can to protect your interests. Call the law offices of Robert Shea at 508.510.5107 and arrange a FREE consultation. Our reputable Brockton personal injury attorneys will examine your case and provide perspective on how best to proceed.