National statistics show that there are almost 15,000 cases of road rage that occur each year in this country. Unfortunately, many of these cases involve car accidents that happened because of an angry and aggressive driver. A victim who has been injured in a car accident caused by a reckless driver may be entitled to pursue damages for the losses their injuries have caused them. If you have been injured in a crash caused by a driver exhibiting road rage, contact a car accident lawyer to ensure you receive the financial compensation you deserve.
What Exactly Is Road Rage?
There are many acts that could fall under the category of road rage. Stressors in someone’s life coupled with the frustration of traffic, whether it be traffic congestion or just a seemingly insignificant situation on the road, can trigger agitated behaviors in drivers that lead to road rage. Threatening verbal abuse and hand gestures can evolve into deadly physical altercations between bodies and vehicles.
Tragically, even the most apparent trivial incident can quickly escalate into an incident that causes victims serious harm or even death. Some of the acts can include a driver who dangerously and aggressively tailgates the driver they are raging at. They may weave in and out of lanes in a reckless manner, cutting other vehicles off, illegally passing, and driving at excessive speeds. All of these behaviors can result in catastrophic crashes.
Recognizing an Aggressive Driver
If you encounter an aggressive driver or one exhibiting road rage, it is important to take the steps to protect yourself. The first thing you want to do is to get out of the driver’s way quickly and safely. Ignore whatever they may yell at you or obscene gestures they make. Do not say anything or make any gestures back. In fact, do not even make eye contact with the driver. Keep your windows up, your doors locked, and do not honk your horn.
If the driver is still being aggressive with you and you are unable to safely get away from them, drive straight to a police station. Do not drive to your home or workplace. Doing so will alert the driver to where you live and work.
Contact a Car Accident Law Firm Today
Unfortunately, there are cases where the exchange with a driver suffering from road rage turns into a car accident. If you have been injured by an aggressive driver, you deserve to be compensated for all the losses your injuries have caused, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. To ensure that compensation, you need a skilled attorney, like a car accident lawyer from a law firm like Tuttle Law, P.A.
