Denver Reckless Driving Causing Injury Attorney

Decades of Experience Defending Against Traffic Offenses in Colorado

Did you know that, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation, more than 400,000 motor vehicle accidents were reported in the past five years, and almost 10,000 of those crashes caused serious injury or death? 

Reckless driving is a serious criminal offense, and reckless drivers can face both criminal and civil penalties after a wreck, depending on whether their actions were found to be responsible for the wreck. In the state of Colorado, all drivers are legally responsible for their actions behind the wheel, and if you’re injured in a car wreck, the person who hit you could be liable for your medical bills and ongoing treatment expenses.

If you’ve been hurt in a wreck, contact our Denver reckless driving causing injury attorneys at (303) 747-4247 or fill out the online form today to find out how our team can help you find the justice you need to find peace and rebuild your life.

What is Reckless Driving?

In Colorado, reckless driving is defined as operating a motor vehicle with willful disregard for the safety of others. It involves actions that show a blatant indifference to the potential consequences of driving dangerously.

Reckless driving includes behaviors such as:

• Excessive speeding, typically more than 25 miles per hour over the posted speed limit.
• Aggressive tailgating or following too closely.
• Changing lanes abruptly without signaling.
• Running red lights or stop signs.
• Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• Engaging in street racing or other high-risk activities.
• Failing to yield to pedestrians or other vehicles in a dangerous manner.

If reckless driving leads to a collision that results in injury to another person, the driver can be held liable for the damages caused. In some cases, criminal charges may also be pursued.

Penalties for Reckless Driving Causing Injury or Death

In Colorado, the penalties for reckless driving causing injury or death are severe, reflecting the seriousness of the offense and the potential harm caused to victims. Reckless driving in Colorado is typically classified as a Class 2 misdemeanor. However, when reckless driving leads to injury, the penalties can be much more serious.

If reckless driving results in a serious bodily injury to another person, the individual responsible can be charged with vehicular assault (C.R.S. § 18-3-205) under certain circumstances. If convicted, the driver could face a Class 4 felony charge which carries:

• A prison sentence of 2 to 6 years.
• A fine ranging from $2,000 to $500,000.

If reckless driving results in death, the driver can be charged with vehicular homicide (C.R.S. § 18-3-106). This charge is more severe and occurs when reckless driving directly causes the death of another person. A conviction for vehicular homicide can result in a Class 4 felony or Class 3 felony depending on the circumstances.

• Class 4 felony: 2 to 6 years in prison and $2,000 to $500,000 in fines.
• Class 3 felony: If the driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the accident, or if there are other aggravating factors, the charge may elevate to a Class 3 felony, which carries 4 to 12 years in prison and fines ranging from $3,000 to $750,000.

Common Defenses in Reckless Driving Cases

While it is often clear that reckless driving causes injury, the defendant may raise several defenses to minimize their liability. Some common defenses that might be used by a reckless driver in an injury case include:

• Fault of the Victim: The defense may argue that the victim contributed to the accident, for example, by failing to yield or not following traffic laws.
• Mechanical Failure or Weather Conditions: The defendant may claim that a mechanical failure or poor weather conditions led to the accident, rather than their own reckless driving.
• Lack of Intent: Since reckless driving requires a willful disregard for safety, the defendant might claim they did not intend to cause harm.

Your reckless driving causing injury attorney in Denver will anticipate these defenses and work to counter them, using evidence to strengthen your case and ensure that you are not unfairly blamed for the accident.

Additional Consequences 

In addition to potential jail time and hefty fines, the driver may face a mandatory license suspension or permanent revocation, particularly if convicted of vehicular homicide or vehicular assault.

The driver can be subjected to civil penalties, including personal injury or wrongful death lawsuits filed by the victims or their families. This can lead to significant financial compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, funeral expenses, and emotional distress.

If the driver’s actions were especially reckless, such as being under the influence, punitive damages may be imposed. Additionally, insurance companies may increase premiums or even refuse to cover the driver, leaving them financially responsible for damages and legal costs.

The consequences of reckless driving extend far beyond the courtroom. A criminal conviction can lead to a long-term criminal record, severely affecting the driver’s career prospects, travel opportunities, and personal life. 

Why Hire a Denver Reckless Driving Causing Injury Attorney?

Reckless driving accidents can be complex, especially when trying to prove fault and secure fair compensation. Having an experienced reckless driving causing injury attorney in Denver on your side is essential for several reasons:

• Knowledge of Colorado Law: A skilled attorney understands the specific laws surrounding reckless driving in Colorado and can guide you through the process of filing a claim.
• Expert Negotiation Skills: Insurance companies often try to settle for the lowest amount possible. A Denver reckless driving causing injury lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries.
• Courtroom Representation: If your case goes to trial, a lawyer can represent you in court, presenting your evidence and making a compelling case for your damages.
• Peace of Mind: Dealing with the aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming. An attorney will handle the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on recovering and moving forward with your life.

Reckless driving is a serious issue that can cause significant harm to innocent victims. If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by reckless driving, it is essential to take legal action to hold the responsible driver accountable. A Denver reckless driving causing injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process, fight for your rights, and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Contact an attorney today to discuss your case and take the first step toward securing justice. Call now - (303) 747-4247