The Dangers of Road Rage

Approximately 56 percent of car accidents are caused by road rage and aggressive driving, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Because road rage accidents often involve speeding, crashing into other vehicles or other aggressive driving maneuvers, many of these collisions result in serious injuries and death.

If you have been injured in a car accident caused by road rage, the Lynch Law Firm, PC’s New Jersey auto accident lawyers will investigate your claim and determine if you may have a case against the other driver. Contact us as soon as possible to schedule a free, no obligation consultation to find out if you may be entitled to compensation.

What Is Road Rage?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration defines road rage as a combination of moving violations that endanger the safety of other persons or their property.

Some common forms of road rage or aggressive driving include:

Road rage incidents are dangerous because they often occur when vehicles are traveling at higher speeds and the driver may not have complete control over his or her vehicle. Furthermore, drivers engaging in road rage may be following too closely or may not be in the proper lane, leaving them with little time to react to an upcoming hazard or change in traffic.

What Causes Road Rage?

Road rage is often caused by factors completely unrelated to traffic conditions, such as when a person may be having difficulties in his or her marriage, job or personal life.

Additionally, drivers may feel frustrated when they are cut off, unable to change lanes or get stuck behind a slow-moving driver. These driving behaviors may cause a motorist to become angry. This may result in motorists driving recklessly and aggressively.

How Can I Prevent Road Rage?

Driving cautiously and obeying all traffic laws can help you avoid doing things that may lead to aggressive driving.

If you begin to notice that you are displaying reckless or aggressive behavior while driving, consider following these guidelines:

• Understand your triggers – Recognize signs that indicate when you are starting to get frustrated or angry while driving. Consider pulling over to the side of the road and taking a break or letting your passenger drive your vehicle.
• Find ways to calm down – Use other outlets to calm yourself down, such as playing calming music, taking another route or exercising before taking a long drive.
• Be compassionate – Try giving other drivers the benefit of the doubt when they do something you disagree with. Do not assume another driver is trying to be rude or purposefully offend you. The other driver may have made a mistake or may be dealing with a problem in his or her personal life as well.

How Should I Respond to Road Rage?

If you are traveling near a motorist who is driving aggressively, it is important that you try to stay safe and remain calm.

When confronted with an aggressive motorist, consider following these driving tips:

• Give the driver space – Back away from the aggressive driver by changing lanes or taking other steps to create space between you and his or her vehicle. This may also increase your response time if the driver’s actions cause sudden traffic changes or an auto accident.
• Avoid engaging with the aggressive driver – Try not to respond to the aggressive driver’s gestures, shouts or other behaviors. Do not look directly at him or her and try to leave the situation as quickly and safely possible.
• Do not confront the driver – If the aggressive driver becomes confrontational, do not engage him or her in any way. Stay in your vehicle and lock your doors. However, if an aggressive driver threatens your or you feel as is your life is in danger, contact law enforcement immediately.

Contact an Attorney if You Have Been a Victim of Road Rage

If you have been injured in an auto accident caused by an aggressive driver, you may have a case that entitles you to compensation for your injuries and losses.

The Lynch Law Firm, PC’s personal injury lawyers in New Jersey are dedicated to protecting the rights of injury victims and will not hesitate to pursue legal action against the driver responsible for causing your pain and suffering. We will provide you with a free, no obligation consultation to help you determine if you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Our experienced attorneys work only on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not have to pay us up front for our services. We only require payment if we help you recover compensation for your claim.

Call (800) 518-0508 to get started today.