Can You Report a Reckless Driver?
You're driving in the correct lane for your speed on the highway, and then suddenly, whoosh! Someone slams on their brakes, nearly crashing into the person next to them, and then speeds away. You're in disbelief. What should you do? You should call the police or the highway safety patrol and report them.
Reckless drivers pose a significant threat to responsible motorists everywhere, especially bikers. Steelhorse Law recognizes this threat and believes everyone should understand the crucial role we all play in stopping reckless drivers. We're going to cover how to report reckless driving, what types of behaviors to look out for, who to contact, and next steps to take.
What is a Reckless Driver?
The exact definition of a reckless driver may depend on your specific location. Generally, however, the term can be defined as someone who disregards traffic safety rules in a way that puts people and property in danger. In some southern states, such as Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee, the definition of reckless driving is similar.
According to the Georgia Governor's Office of Highway Safety and the O.C.G.A. § 40-6-390, reckless driving is a misdemeanor. It is defined as "any person who drives any vehicle in reckless disregard for the safety of persons and property." In South Carolina, reckless driving is defined in S.C. Code § 56-5-2920 as "any person who drives any vehicle in a manner that indicates either a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property," which may result in a suspended license. Tennessee's definition of reckless driving is in T.C.A. § 55-10-205 as "any person who drives any vehicle in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property." It is also considered a misdemeanor here.
Examples of Reckless Driving
When riding a motorcycle, reckless driving poses a significant risk. Motorcyclists have less protection than other drivers on the road, making encounters with careless drivers even more dangerous for them. What are some examples of reckless driving you can look out for?
- Racing vehicles
- Driving without headlights
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Improper passing or merging
- Extreme speeding (or driving far below the speed limit)
- Tailgating
- Distracted driving (e.g., texting, eating, applying makeup, adjusting the radio)
- Excessive Swerving
- Drifting between lanes (or lane splitting)
- Ignoring traffic signals/signs
- Road rage (e.g., weaving through traffic, honking excessively, making rude gestures)
- Driving under the influence (e.g., drugs and alcohol)
Can You Report a Reckless Driver?
Yes, you can and should report reckless driving. Your report could be the difference between a potential accident and a safe journey. Your action is not just necessary, it's empowering.
If you've been involved in a reckless driving accident, remember that you're not alone. Call emergency responders, collect the contact information of witnesses and involved parties, document the scene with photos and videos, and contact Steelhorse Law. We're here to provide the legal support you need.
How to Report a Reckless Driver?
If you're alone when encountering a reckless driver, try to memorize as much information about them and their vehicle as you can. If you are with a passenger, ask them to take down the:
- License plate number and state
- Car color
- Make and model
- Number of doors
- Distinctive markings, bumper stickers, or dents
- Number of people in the car
What number do I call to report a reckless driver?
If lives are in danger, you can call 911 or your local police department's number. For trucks, call the number on the "How's My Driving" sticker. When you are in a safe area, pull over to make the call. If you're with someone else, they can call immediately. If calling or stopping isn't an option, report it on well-known databases like Nexar or Drive Me Crazy at home. Your local DMV or police department might have online forms or email addresses for reporting reckless drivers.
If you're in South Carolina, call *47 for road emergencies. If you're in Tennessee, call *847 to report a reckless driver. Nashville locals can also report a reckless driver online.
What Happens When You Report a Reckless Driver?
If the police catch them exhibiting erratic behavior, they may be able to stop the driver, prevent accidents, and issue a ticket. However, if they miss them, there's not much that can be done. That's why dashboard cameras have become increasingly popular; in many states and counties, footage can be used as evidence.
If caught, legal repercussions can range from fines to a misdemeanor charge or even jail time. However, the consequences of reckless driving can extend far beyond legal issues. A careless driver may have to live with the knowledge that they were responsible for causing bodily harm to another person for the rest of their lives.
Reckless Driver Caused an Injury? Call Steelhorse Law.
Reckless drivers have a specific legal definition and typically exceed the standard of negligence, posing a safety risk to others. Each state defines what qualifies as "reckless." Tennessee has strict policies against riding a motorcycle with a wheelie on public roads. The range of punishments and penalties also varies, including fines, jail time, and full license suspension.
If you're a motorcycle rider who has been involved in an incident with a reckless driver, contact our legal team. We have the expertise needed to guide you through a reckless driving case.
