How Can Reckless Drivers Be Held Accountable for Their Harm?

Reckless driving has progressively gotten worse throughout the country in recent years. And, New Mexico is no exception. Such drivers are often in a hurry, move unpredictably and speed, which becomes dangerous for others traveling on the roadways, even for pedestrians and bicyclists. A collision, sadly, is often unavoidable, when a reckless driver is involved.

The Law in New Mexico

New Mexico law defines reckless driving as driving “any vehicle carelessly and heedlessly in willful or wanton disregard of the rights or safety of others and without due caution and circumspection and at a speed or in a manner so as to endanger or be likely to endanger any person or property.” A person convicted of reckless driving can face jail time and/or fines.

The driver can also be held liable for civil damages if they harm someone.

Obtaining Compensation From a Reckless Driver

Victims of reckless drivers can seek damages, to pay for medical bills and other expenses as well as non-economic damages like pain and suffering. You can also seek punitive damages. These types of damages are meant to deter the at-fault driver and others from engaging in such egregious behavior. Depending on the circumstances, in New Mexico, punitive damages can be as much as ten times the amount of compensatory damages.

Certainly, no amount of money can bring back a loved one or undo injuries you might have to live with for the rest of your life. However, they can mitigate the financial damage done and make things a little easier financially as you move forward.

By hiring an experienced legal advocate, you can improve your chances of getting the maximum possible compensation.