Because of the relatively long distances between most people’s homes and their places of school, work and recreation, driving is almost required in much of the United States, including in Colorado. Most people drive everyday without thinking too much about it, but most people know that careless driving can lead to serious injuries in an instant. Understanding that, most people obey all traffic laws when they are behind the wheel.
In Colorado Springs recently, the driver of one vehicle apparently failed in that responsibility when she was unable to avoid hitting another vehicle. According to police, the 11:00 a.m. accident happened when a 2000 GMC Jimmy rear-ended a 2000 Dodge Grand Caravan that was stopped at a red light at the intersection of Woodmen and North Marksheffel roads. The impact sent the van careening into a Honda van that was also stopped. The driver of the Dodge van was taken to the intensive care unit of Memorial Hospital Central. Her injuries were described as life-threatening. Two other injured people were treated and released. Police cited the SUV driver for careless driving, but noted she may have been experiencing an unidentified medical emergency.
Reckless driving not only can cause property damage but can also injure and kill. Although authorities may file criminal charges against a reckless driver, injured victims or the families of anyone killed can also take legal action. Injuries often mean large medical bills and lost wages if a victim cannot return to work. A family’s household finances can be affected if an injured victim or someone killed was the primary breadwinner. Compensation may be possible through a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.
Whether the injury was caused by reckless driving or other negligent behavior, such as distracted or drunken driving, victims have the option to file a lawsuit against the negligent party.