While it’s common to become upset and irritated behind the wheel, some take it too far. Any driving behaviors that are done with the intent to hurt or intimidate other drivers are considered road rage. In many instances, law enforcement officers see it as a sort of assault and battery, which may be used to build an injury claim after a road rage auto accident.
Factors That Contribute to Road Rage
According to psychologists, numerous factors play a role in road rage incidents, including:
- Driving is a largely anonymous act, and some feel that they can act recklessly with no fear of repercussions.
- Inadequate time management. When people don’t manage their time properly, they tend to speed and engage in other dangerous habits.
- Disregard for others and for the law. A driver’s disregard for the law and others’ safety may lead them to act intentionally and violate traffic laws.
- Traffic delays. When traffic jams occur, drivers may become anxious about making it to their destinations on time. They may react by following others too closely, weaving in and out of stalled traffic, or cutting other vehicles off.
- Others’ actions. When other drivers act carelessly, some become angry and try to retaliate.
If you’ve been in an accident due to road rage, get help at The Krist Law Firm. Call or click today to schedule a consultation.
Is Road Rage Illegal?
According to NHTSA, road rage is defined as operating a vehicle with a wanton or willful disregard for others’ safety. It’s a type of reckless driving, for which a person may face prison time and steep fines. Anyone found guilty can face felony charges if they kill or seriously injure another motorist. Filing a road rage claim is complex, and victims should hire lawyers who are familiar with the process.
Determining Liability in Road Rage Cases
Many people become angry and frustrated behind the wheel. Getting mad about environmental factors is one thing; using a vehicle to express those emotions is another. When accidents happen due to road rage, the driver who acted carelessly is typically held responsible. However, the victim must prove that road rage caused the accident.
Driving Safely to Avoid Road Rage
The easiest way to avoid problems with road rage drivers is to recognize their behaviors early on. A dangerous and aggressive driver may:
- Tailgate others
- Use their vehicle’s horn in an unprovoked and excessive manner
- Use their high beams to blind others
- Weave in and out of traffic
- Yell profanities or use obscene hand gestures
- Intentionally drive distracted
- Use their vehicle to force another off the road
If you’ve noticed any of these intentional behaviors, try to keep a safe distance from the dangerous driver. Switch lanes when possible or take another route. Consider calling the police and reporting the other driver’s behavior, including their license plate number and vehicle description. Never do anything that puts your health and safety in danger.
Get Help After a Road Rage Accident
Road rage may seem like a satisfying reaction in the short term, but it can have long-term consequences. If you’ve been hurt because of another driver’s intentional acts, there’s help available. Request additional information online or call today to schedule a no-obligation consultation with an injury attorney.
