Road Rage is More Common Than You May Think

It is common knowledge that many, if not most, car accidents in the United States are caused by distracted or negligent drivers. But did you know that another leading cause of car wrecks is road rage? Sure, we’ve all had a momentary bout of road rage when someone is driving under the speed limit or switches into our lane all of a sudden. However, when this split second of irritation is taken to the next level and violence ensues, we have a problem. According to statistics, we have witnessed approximately 220 murders and an additional 12,000 injuries over seven years due to road rage. These days, it seems violence on the roadways is always in the news. Road rage comes in many different shapes and forms, including wrecks, punches, and even gun violence. This is a scary thought for many drivers, and rightfully so. As Dallas car accident attorneys, we have seen it all. We have represented victims of car accidents that stem from texting and driving, driver while under the influence of alcohol, and road rage. If you or a loved one are the victim of a case of road rage, we encourage you to contact our law firm today. 

What is Road Rage?

Generally speaking, road rage and aggressive driving are looked at as one in the same. Depending on the specific incident, these terms may be used interchangeably. This is due in large part to the fact that the majority of road rage incidents occur as a result of road rage. Maybe someone cut you off, maybe they have been tailing you for the last 10 miles and you’ve finally had enough. Regardless of the initial incident, road rage more often than not turns into aggressive driving, which can be deadly.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, aggressive driving is defined as something that takes place when a driver “commits a combination of moving traffic offenses so as to endanger other persons or property.” In some cases, aggressive driving may only result in a traffic citation. However, this type of behavior can also turn fatal. Road rage takes place when one driver is reacting to another’s behavior or actions and does so in a manner that it exceeds simple frustration or irritation. 

Common Signs of Road Rage

Some of the most common signs of road rage include the following:

• Sudden change in speed in close proximity to another driver
• Tailgating another car and flashing headlights at the driver in front
• Intentionally slamming on the brakes in front of another car
• Cutting off other drivers
• Persistent use of the vehicle’s horn
• Frequently and dangerously switching lanes
• Yelling at other drivers
• Making rude hand gestures to other drivers

The best way to avoid being involved in a car accident with an aggressive driver is to stay away from engaging in confrontation or giving into another driver’s road rage. Road rage is very serious and could cause long-lasting, devastating damage and injuries. To chat with a Dallas car accident attorney, please contact Rad Law Firm today.