Dawn Pinnisi
May 12, 2025
Yes, you can report someone for reckless driving in New Jersey. If you’ve witnessed dangerous behavior on the road in Paramus, NJ—whether on Route 17, the Garden State Parkway, or during your daily commute—it’s more than just a right; it’s a responsibility to help ensure public safety. Reckless driving seriously threatens everyone on the road, often leading to dangerous collisions and preventable injuries.
Reporting this behavior allows law enforcement to address hazards before they result in serious harm. At Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C., we understand the devastating consequences of reckless driving and advocate for victims injured due to another driver’s carelessness. We are committed to protecting your rights and helping you pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
What is reckless driving?
Reckless driving in New Jersey is legally defined as operating a vehicle with “willful or wanton disregard” for the safety of others. This can include excessive speeding, tailgating, swerving between lanes without signaling, or running red lights. In many cases, these behaviors lead to serious car accidents and injuries.
Under New Jersey law, reckless driving is a serious traffic offense that adds five points to a driver’s license and may carry fines, license suspension, or even jail time.
Some examples of reckless driving include:
- Driving 30+ mph over the speed limit
- Aggressively weaving through traffic
- Ignoring traffic signals or signs
- Texting while speeding
Can you report a reckless driver?
Absolutely. You can and should report reckless drivers to the authorities. In Paramus, residents are encouraged to contact local law enforcement immediately when they witness erratic or dangerous driving behavior. If the situation is urgent or life-threatening, dialing 911 is appropriate. For non-emergency situations, you can call the Paramus Police Department directly.
When making a report, try to provide the following information:
- License plate number
- Make, model, and color of the vehicle
- The exact location and time of the incident
- Description of the reckless behavior
It’s important to note that reporting someone for reckless driving doesn’t guarantee immediate police intervention. Still, it helps build a record that could be crucial if the driver causes a car accident later.
What if you got hit by a reckless driver?
You may have grounds for a personal injury claim if a reckless driver struck you. In New Jersey, victims of car accidents caused by another’s negligence have the right to pursue compensation for damages such as:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
As a car accident victim in Paramus, you’ll likely be dealing with the aftermath of injuries, insurance companies, and possibly long-term treatment. Our legal team understands how overwhelming this can be. Proving that the other driver was behaving recklessly can strengthen your claim and potentially increase your compensation. Police reports, eyewitness statements, and traffic camera footage are all valuable tools in this process.
What steps should I take if I’m in a car accident?
After an accident, your priority should be safety and medical care. But beyond that, you can take several key actions to protect your rights and build a strong case.
According to guidance from DMV, you should:
- Call 911: Immediately notify emergency services and request police and medical assistance if needed. Prompt medical care not only ensures your well-being but also documents your injuries.
- Document the scene: Use your phone to take clear, comprehensive photos of the damage to all vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries.
- Exchange information: Get the names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s licenses, and insurance information from all involved drivers.
- Speak to witnesses: Politely ask for the names and contact information of any bystanders who witnessed the accident. Their testimony may be critical.
- File a police report: Request that law enforcement document the incident.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked by a medical professional—some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Contact a personal injury attorney: Having legal guidance early can protect your rights and strengthen your potential claim against the at-fault party.
Many people in Paramus assume insurance will “take care of everything,” but that’s rarely the case, especially when dealing with a reckless driver.
Injured in Paramus by a reckless driver? Call us today
If you’re asking yourself, “Can you report someone for reckless driving?”—you may already be concerned about safety or have been affected directly. At Varcadipane & Pinnisi, P.C., we’re here to help victims of car accidents in Paramus and throughout Bergen County. We aggressively pursue justice for our clients, holding reckless drivers accountable and helping you recover the compensation you deserve. Call us at (201) 588-1500 or contact us today for a free consultation.
Dawn M. Pinnisi
Dawn M. Pinnisi is a distinguished attorney with a track record of excellence in advocating for victims of injury and negligence. Dawn is a Founding Partner of the Firm, a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and has been awarded by the National Trial Lawyers.
University: J.D. Brooklyn Law School
Bar Number: 33771999
Locations: New Jersey and New York.
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