Law Injury Lawyers logo

Can You Sue for Injuries from Accidents Caused by Reckless Driving?

When Reckless Driving Turns Lives Upside Down

Reckless driving is not a mistake. It is a choice that puts everyone on the road at risk. If you were injured in a crash caused by a reckless driver, you are not just entitled to recover—you are entitled to hold them accountable.

At LA Injury Lawyers, we help victims of reckless driving causing injury get the justice they deserve. Whether the crash was high-speed, involved erratic lane changes, or resulted in long-term trauma, we are here to advocate for your full recovery.

Schedule a free evaluation with our team today. You do not pay unless we win.

Caused by Reckless Driving

What Is Reckless Driving Causing Injury?

Under California Vehicle Code Section 23103, reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle “in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” When such conduct leads to injury, it becomes a civil liability—and often a criminal offense.

Common Examples:

  • Excessive speeding
  • Tailgating and weaving through traffic
  • Running red lights or stop signs
  • Road rage or aggressive driving behavior

These actions commonly result in accidents caused by reckless driving, including rear-end collisions, high-speed highway crashes, and pedestrian strikes. When injuries follow, victims can file a personal injury claim.

Common Injuries Caused by Reckless Driving

Injuries can vary from minor to catastrophic, depending on the type of accident. Some of the most common include:

Physical Injuries

Long-Term and Psychological Trauma

When reckless driving results in serious physical injury, the cost of recovery can be overwhelming. Medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress are all compensable under California law.

Can You File a Lawsuit for a Reckless Driving Accident?

Yes. If you can prove the other driver acted with disregard for safety and their actions caused your injuries, you can pursue a civil case, even if they were not charged criminally.

A civil lawsuit for reckless driving accidents allows you to recover compensation for your losses. The claim can be filed against the driver’s insurance or, in some cases, against multiple parties if commercial vehicles or other factors are involved.

Consulting a Car Accident Attorney in Los Angeles will help clarify your options and build your case with the proper evidence.

Legal Elements to Prove in a Reckless Driving Injury Claim

To win your case, your attorney will need to establish the following:

Duty of Care

The driver had a legal obligation to operate their vehicle safely.

Breach of Duty

The reckless behavior demonstrated a clear violation of that duty.

Causation

There must be a direct link between the behavior and the injuries sustained.

Damages

You suffered quantifiable harm—financial, physical, or emotional—as a result.

Supporting evidence may include:

  • Police reports
  • Dashcam or surveillance footage
  • Medical records
  • Witness statements

An experienced Car Accident Injury Attorney in Los Angeles will handle the investigation and evidence gathering.

Can You File a Lawsuit for a Reckless Driving Accident

What Damages Can You Recover?

Victims of reckless driving can pursue both economic and non-economic damages.

Economic Damages

  • Current and future medical expenses
  • Lost wages and future earning potential
  • Property damage

Non-Economic Damages

  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Emotional distress

The severity of your injuries, the extent of the driver’s recklessness, and the available evidence will influence the amount of your rear-end collision compensation or overall recovery.

What to Expect When You Hire an Attorney

The process starts with a free consultation where your lawyer will:

  • Review accident reports
  • Assess the value of your claim
  • Identify all liable parties

From there, your Car Accident Attorney in Los Angeles will:

  • Collect and preserve evidence
  • Deal with insurance adjusters on your behalf
  • Negotiate for a fair settlement or take the case to court if necessary

A skilled legal team maximizes your compensation and relieves you of the burden of handling legal complexities.

LA Injury Lawyers: Proven Results

We have a long history of helping victims recover maximum compensation in reckless driving cases:

  • $11 Million – Brain injury victim
  • $10 Million – Car accident victim
  • $8.2 Million – Motorcycle accident victim
  • $7 Million – Spinal injury victim

We know how to hold reckless drivers accountable. Let us do the same for you.

Call us at (818) 539-5390 or visit us at 6200 Canoga Ave, Suite 310, Woodland Hills. You pay nothing unless we win.

Final Thoughts

Reckless driving accidents do more than cause property damage. They change lives. If you have been hurt in a crash due to another person’s recklessness, do not wait. California law gives you a limited time to act.

The sooner you contact a lawyer, the better your chances of recovering full compensation. Do not leave your future in the hands of an insurance company.

Schedule Your Free Legal Evaluation Today

At LA Injury Lawyers, we take every reckless driving case personally. Your injuries, your losses, and your future matter to us.

Let our results speak for themselves. Schedule your free, no-obligation consultation now.

Call (818) 539-5390 or email in**@*************rs.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Is reckless driving enough to file a personal injury lawsuit?

Yes. If reckless behavior caused injury, it may qualify for a civil lawsuit alongside any criminal penalties.

What if the driver was never charged?

You can still sue in civil court. Criminal charges are not required to pursue compensation.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit in California?

Generally, two years from the date of the accident. Speak to an attorney as soon as possible.

What is the average settlement for a reckless driving case?

It varies. Severe injuries or lasting disabilities often lead to higher compensation amounts.

Can I sue for emotional distress after a reckless driving accident?

Yes. Psychological trauma is a recognized form of damage in personal injury cases under California law.

Unlock the full potential of your physician-owned practice with our affordable growth and expansion services. At Karma Health, we specialize in driving success for healthcare providers like you.