Road Rage & Aggressive Driving
Tempers can get out of control on the road. Usually, drivers are able to put their emotions to the side and drive safely, but sometimes, high emotions can lead to dangerous driving and accidents. When aggressive driving leads to an accident, take steps to protect yourself. If you were hit by an aggressive driver, you have legal options. At my firm, Wilson Law Firm PLLC, I will guide you every step of the way in pursuing financial compensation. I proudly serve clients in Shawnee, Oklahoma, including the surrounding areas of Chandler, Norman, Okemah, and Ada.
What Is Road Rage?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA) has defined road rage as extremely aggressive driving behavior when a driver or a passenger endangers or assaults other drivers or passengers. If the driver does something dangerous, such as committing a moving traffic offense, that is road rage, and it can cause issues for everyone around them.
Causes of Road Rage
There are many different causes of road rage. Someone might be experiencing stress in other areas of their life, and they take it out on the road. Traffic congestion and delays are common causes of road rage.
When someone thinks that another person is driving aggressively, that also might send them into road rage. Running late for an important meeting, appointment, or other event is also a common cause of road rage.
Some drivers feel that they are anonymous on the road, or that the rules don’t apply to them, so they feel free to engage in road rage. Lastly, for some drivers, road rage is a behavior they’ve learned from other drivers, and it becomes a habit.
What to Do If You Feel or Witness Road Rage
Not only do others experience road rage, but it’s possible you can experience it as well, especially if something dangerous has happened, and fear can take over. There are several steps you should take if you are worried that you might experience road rage.
First of all, leave your home early. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination, and you will feel less rushed and stressed on the road. Remember to drive respectfully. Don’t tailgate other drivers and avoid honking. Don’t use rude hand gestures and make sure to not stop to confront another driver. This protects you from others and others from you.
Protect yourself and any passengers if you witness road rage. Stay away from the incident. While it may be difficult, don’t give in to the temptation to engage with the other driver: ignore them and their aggressive behavior. Don’t stop at the scene. Lastly, it’s also wise to watch your back.
Understanding Aggressive Driving and Traffic Offenses
Aggressive driving can lead to traffic offenses, which can result in consequences for your driving record. Aggressive driving could be not using your turn signal, cutting someone off, and weaving through lanes of traffic.
How Aggressive Driving Differs From Road Rage
The NHSTA has established that there is a clear difference between aggressive driving and road rage. Aggressive driving is a traffic offense, while road rage can lead to criminal charges.
The Dangers of Aggressive Driving
Aggressive driving, like road rage, can result in serious consequences. It can lead to a traffic offense on your driving record or an accident. Following too closely, weaving through traffic, speeding excessively, and running stoplights are all considered aggressive driving.
What to Do If You Witness Aggressive Driving
If you witness aggressive driving, just like if you witness road rage, do not reciprocate. Do not make rude hand gestures to the other driver, cut off the other driver, or act aggressively in any way. Most importantly, do not stop and engage the other driver in a confrontation.
When Road Rage and Aggressive Driving Lead to Accidents
Road rage and aggressive driving can both cause serious accidents. When this happens, it’s important to follow several guidelines at the scene of the accident.
Do not admit fault or apologize to the other driver – this could create problems down the line. Make sure you file a police report so that there is an official record. Take pictures of the scene and the vehicles. Most importantly, politely exchange information with the other driver.
While emotions might have been high before the accident, it’s important to keep a level head afterward. You may hurt your case, and your wallet, if you don’t.
Turn to Reliable Representation
After an aggressive driving or road rage accident, it can be extremely helpful to seek legal counsel. An experienced car accident attorney can help you negotiate with the insurance agency and can work towards securing the best financial outcome for you.
How Wilson Law Firm PLLC Can Help
A car accident is an extremely stressful life event, especially when aggressive driving or road rage is involved. Working with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help you seek financial compensation for your medical bills, vehicle repair bills, and lost wages. At my firm, Wilson Law Firm PLLC, I passionately advocate for my clients who have been involved in car accidents. I proudly serve clients in Shawnee, Oklahoma, and the surrounding cities of Chandler, Norman, Okemah, and Ada. Contact my firm today to schedule a consultation.