Everyone has had moments behind the wheel when they were angry and frustrated. However, driving in such a state can make for a disastrous situation as it can lead to an accident. Road rage is widespread amongst South Florida drivers, but it is an extremely dangerous habit, especially when travelling on the expressway. In the worst-case scenario, road rage can result in assault or even homicide.
Luckily, road rage is entirely preventable. For people who know they are prone to getting angry while driving, it is their responsibility to get help before their behavior causes irreversible damage to someone else’s life.
How Common is Road Rage?
While the penalties for road rage are severe in most states, it’s still easy to fall victim to individuals with this condition while commuting. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) lists several scary statistics for road rage accidents:
- Two-thirds of road accidents that are fatal stem from acts of road rage
- Within the past seven years, 12,610 people suffered injuries as a result of road rage, and 218 were killed because of it
- Thirty-seven percent of acts of road rage involve firearms or another type of weapon
- Half of all drivers who have experienced road rage admit to reacting in an aggressive manner
- Two percent of drivers admitted they have tried running another driver off the road
Oftentimes, the person in the other car is unaware that the other motorist has violent tendencies, which can make the situation worse. The best thing to do if approached by an aggressive driver is to lock your doors and call the police.
How to Protect Yourself from Road Rage
There are a few specific steps drivers can take to protect themselves from road rage. If a driver is repeatedly honking, flashing their lights, yelling and screaming or making threatening gestures, the best thing a person can do is ignore them and simply let them pass. If a person is being tailgated, they should move out of the other vehicle’s way when they are safely able to do so. When a person keeps their own emotions in check, it can help prevent an accident.
Holding Road Rage Drivers Responsible
Road rage is preventable. However, a driver who is guilty of road rage and whose actions result in an injury to another person should be held liable. Anyone who has suffered injuries in an accident with a road rage driver should consult with an attorney. Calling the police is also wise as the driver will be cited for aggressive driving.
Individuals wounded in an accident caused by road rage can file a claim pursuing compensation for the following:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent injury
- Medical equipment
- Loss of consortium
- Emotional injuries
- Loss of earning ability
A person who has sustained injuries on the road with an aggressive, angry driver should immediately discuss their case with an experienced lawyer. The Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyers at Salpeter Gitkin, LLP can help ensure that you recover compensation for all accident-related damages. Contact us today at (954) 467-8622 for a free case evaluation. We can review the facts of your case and make you aware of your legal options going forward.
