Walk It Through: The Rainy Night
Willful or wanton against careless, a fine when someone is hurt, and the duty to stop and help.
Running late on a rainy night, a driver speeds and weaves around slower cars.
Two things a person in this spot might do. Picking one shows what the law says about it.
One driver and one rainy night. Vehicular homicide, insurance, and a civil claim for the injury are not worked through here.
A practice walkthrough, not a prediction of how any real one will go. Legal information, not legal advice.
Words this turns on
Terms with a legal meaning that is narrower than the everyday one. Each links to the definition and the authority behind it.
- Misdemeanor of the third degreeThe lowest misdemeanor grade, punishable by up to 1 year in prison and a fine of up to $2,500.
- Summary offenseThe lowest grade of offense, punishable by not more than 90 days, with a fine of up to $300 unless a higher fine is set.
- Careless drivingDriving in careless disregard for the safety of persons or property, a summary offense.