Reckless behavior behind the wheel puts everyone on the road at risk. Drivers who choose to ignore traffic laws and act aggressively create situations where serious car accidents are almost inevitable, not to mention the catastrophic injuries that tend to result.
If you were injured in a crash caused by this kind of driving, Tennessee law gives you the right to hold the at-fault driver liable through a Nashville car accident claim. Most dangerous driving accident cases follow a general process that is worth learning about before you get started, so read on for the information you should know.
What Counts as Dangerous Driving in Tennessee?
Per T.C.A. § 55-10-205, reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle with “willful or wanton disregard for the safety of people or property.” This is a criminal offense classified as a Class B misdemeanor, but it also opens the door to civil liability.
Common behaviors that fall under dangerous driving include:
- Excessive speeding
- Aggressive tailgating
- Weaving between lanes
- Running red lights
- Street racing
Note that the driver does not need to be criminally charged or convicted of reckless driving for you to bring a civil claim against them. Your personal injury case operates separately from any criminal proceedings and only requires you to prove negligence.
How Does the Claims Process Work in a Car Accident Case?
The first step is to hire an experienced car and truck accident lawyer in Nashville. From there, your legal team will investigate the accident, collect evidence, review the police report, and calculate the full scope of your damages. Once that picture is clear, your attorney will send a demand letter to the at-fault driver’s insurance company outlining what your claim is worth.
The insurer will almost certainly push back. Insurance companies make their money by paying out as little as possible and will use various tactics to lower or deny your claim altogether. From there, settlement negotiations begin between your lawyer and the insurance carrier. Most cases do resolve at this stage, though some may proceed to court if necessary.
How Much Is My Dangerous Driving Car Accident Case Worth?
No two dangerous driving cases carry the same value. Several factors will shape what your claim is ultimately worth, such as:
- The severity of your injuries and whether you will fully recover
- How much you have spent on medical treatment so far and what future care you may need
- The amount of income you have lost due to the accident
- The strength of the evidence linking the other driver’s behavior to your injuries
- The nature and extent of your pain and suffering
- The limits of the at-fault driver’s insurance policy
An experienced attorney can help you account for each of these factors and push for the maximum amount your case supports.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney for Help After a Dangerous Driving Accident
Dangerous driving is one of the most preventable causes of serious car accidents in Tennessee. If you were involved in one of these crashes, Woodard Injury Law is here to help you make the most of your opportunity to take legal action.
Schedule a free consultation with us today by calling (615) 640-3648 or reaching out online. We’re ready to get to work on your behalf right away.