AUSTIN, Texas. Sometimes people will do anything to get a viral video. Dangerous and reckless driving is no exception. However, YouTube has announced a ban on dangerous challenges on its website, in a hope to reduce the number of risky behaviors people take. The hope is that drivers will put down their phones and stop taking reckless actions while driving.
YouTube has recently updated its policy on dangerous and risky content. According to YouTube, “Challenges that present an apparent risk of death are not allowed on YouTube.” The website also notes that any challenges that seem to pose a risk of bodily injury or harm to a child are also not permitted. Finally, any pranks that can lead to another person’s physical harm, or that can make a person believe they are about to be physically harmed are not permitted. YouTube is clear to differentiate between artistic works and documentaries, and videos that promote violence and deadly-risk taking, or encourage it, or engage in it.
Dangerous driving and viral content has long been a problem on social media platforms and search engines. Vice recently reported that a teenager trying to complete a Bird Box challenge, blindfolded herself while driving and crashed her car. The consequences of these challenges can be very real and serious. The recent Drake challenge in which people jumped out of moving vehicles to dance left some injured and raised concerns that others would be hurt.
The reality is that reckless behavior that puts others at risk can leave victims seriously injured and can leave families with high medical expenses and losses. If another person’s prank, reckless driving, or dangerous behavior resulted in a car accident, consider speaking to the Robson Law Firm, an Austin, Texas personal injury lawyer today. Teens who drive their parents’ cars could be held responsible for their actions, and their parents may be on the hook for any damages they cause. Parents are wise to speak to teens about the importance of safety behind the wheel and about the dangers of risk-taking.
Reckless driving includes driving 25 miles per hour over the speed limit, racing another vehicle, and passing a vehicle on a two-lane highway where there is a risk of a head-on collision. Other risky behaviors, which may not constitute reckless driving, but can also pose a risk to others include distracted driving, speeding, or engaging in viral “challenges” while driving.
At the end of the day, our actions behind the wheel matter. When accidents happen, victims can suffer serious injury or death. If you or a loved one was hurt due to the reckless or careless actions of another person while driving, the Robson Law Firm are Austin, Texas car accident lawyers who may be able to help you seek damages for your lost wages, pain and suffering, medical bills, and rehabilitation expenses. Contact our firm today to learn more.
Robson Law Firm
1114 Lost Creek Boulevard
Suite 440
Austin, TX 78746
Phone: (512) 345-8200