According to the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office, the state of Oklahoma suffered 69,807 motor vehicle crashes in 2010. Of those collisions, the crash tally reached 36,549 injuries and 668 fatalities. Reckless driving is one of the leading contributing factors in these traffic statistics. As stated by Oklahoma law, reckless driving is defined as any operation of a motor vehicle that exhibits reckless, wanton or willful disregard for the safety of other people and their property.

Commonly confused with road rage, reckless driving actually refers to a traffic offense, while road rage is considered a criminal offense. Reckless driving in the state of Oklahoma is considered a misdemeanor. The penalties for this type of offense include: 4 points applied to the drivers license, potential incarceration of no less than 5 days but not to exceed 90 days, and possible license suspension.

At Edwards Law Firm, our Tulsa auto accident lawyers believe that every person deserves the right to legal representation, regardless of whether or not they have money. An Oklahoma reckless driving accident lawyer is prepared to fight for the compensation that you are entitled to receive.

For more information regarding your case, please complete a Free Case Review today.

What is Considered Reckless Driving?

The majority of motorists agree that reckless driving is incredibly dangerous. Unfortunately, those same motorists have also admitted to driving recklessly in the past. While avoiding these hazardous drivers is impossible at times, safety is increased by knowing what behavior to look out for on the roads.

The following are the most common behaviors associated with reckless driving:

  • Excessive speeding
  • Tailgating
  • Failure to indicate lane changes
  • Excessive lane changes
  • Passing traffic by way of emergency lanes and/or highway shoulders
  • Failure to stop at red lights

Defensive drivers are put in the best position to avoid an accident. If another driver on the road is showing any signs of the above behaviors, safely move to the right-most lane to avoid their reckless driving.

Tips To Prevent Escalating an Incident

Operating a motor vehicle is an enormous responsibility. Unfortunately, part of the responsibility is to maintain a constant level of alertness on the roads. As such, motorists are able to recognize a reckless driver and make the necessary adjustments to remain safe.

If you do, in fact, encounter a reckless driver, keep in mind the following:

  • Attempt to safely get out of the driver’s way
  • Make no eye contact or gestures towards the driver
  • Do not honk, flash lights, or bring any extra attention to your vehicle
  • Do not challenge the driver, allow them to pass
  • Report the driver to the police by safely pulling over and making calling 911

If you or a loved one has suffered injury due to the reckless driving of another, Edwards Law Firm is here to help.

Tips To Reduce The Possibility of an Accident

Oklahoma drivers cannot control how the other motorists on the road operate their vehicles. Nevertheless, every driver has a responsibility to keep the Oklahoma roadways and highways safe.

To reduce the likelihood of an auto collision, adhere to the following safety tips:

  • Obey all speed limits and traffic signage
  • Remain focused on the road, your vehicle, and traffic changes
  • Be positive behind the wheel, do not allow another’s aggression effect how you operate your vehicle
  • Allow extra time to travel or just be late
  • Look out for alternative routes with less traffic
  • Take a deep breath, a safe driver is a calm driver

Encountering a reckless driver on the Oklahoma roadways is inevitable. However, understanding and practicing traffic safety at all times is the most successful way to avoid an accident. If you or a loved one has been injured in a traffic crash, an Oklahoma reckless driving accident lawyer is dedicated to seeking justice for you.

An Oklahoma Reckless Driving Accident Lawyer is Here to Help

At the Edwards Law Firm, our personal injury lawyers strongly believe that those who were at fault in a car accident must be held responsible for their actions.

Injured parties deserve fair representation and adequate compensation to recover from their losses.

To find out how we can assist your damages lawsuit, call us today toll free at 1-800-304-9246 and let us review the details of your incident free of charge.