Car crashes are a tragic and all-too-common occurrence on our roads. In many cases, these accidents are caused by reckless or negligent behavior on the part of one or more of the drivers involved. This type of behavior, known as wantonness, is a disregard for the safety and well-being of others and can have devastating consequences.
One of the most common forms of wantonness in car crashes is drunk driving. When a driver gets behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol, they significantly increase their chances of causing an accident. Alcohol impairs judgment, reaction time, and coordination, making it difficult for a driver to navigate the road safely. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2019, there were 10,142 deaths in alcohol-impaired driving crashes, accounting for 29% of all traffic-related deaths in the United States.
Speeding is another common form of wantonness in car crashes. When a driver exceeds the posted speed limit, they increase their chances of losing control of their vehicle and causing an accident. In addition to the danger posed to other drivers and pedestrians, speeding also increases the severity of injuries sustained in an accident. According to the National Safety Council, speeding is a factor in nearly one-third of all traffic fatalities.
Distracted driving is another form of wantonness that can lead to car crashes. With the proliferation of smartphones and other electronic devices, it has become increasingly common for drivers to use these devices while behind the wheel. However, even a quick glance at a text message or social media notification can take a driver's attention away from the road for crucial seconds, increasing the risk of an accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2019, distraction was a factor in 9% of all fatal crashes and 17% of all crashes resulting in an injury.
Another form of wantonness that can lead to car crashes is aggressive driving. This type of behavior includes tailgating, cutting off other drivers, and making sudden lane changes. These actions can provoke other drivers and lead to a dangerous road rage incident. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, aggressive driving is a factor in nearly half of all car crashes.
The consequences of wantonness in car crashes can be severe. In addition to causing physical injuries and property damage, these accidents can also lead to emotional trauma for the victims and their families. Furthermore, a driver who causes an accident as a result of wanton behavior may face criminal charges and civil liability.
In Alabama, we can ask a jury for additional damages when a driver who is texting is also speeding, through a known high-traffic area. If you were hit by a driver who was texting and driving call us today.