Too often, the traffic in Southern California frustrates drivers to the point that they become emotional. Anger commonly overcomes their good judgment, and they begin to drive aggressively. You likely have seen or experienced the frightening actions of drivers consumed by road rage. The erratic and hostile behavior of road-raging motorists can possibly increase the chances of a crash.
Road rage linked to fatal crashes
Studies of road rage have estimated that over half of fatal crashes occurred because of angry drivers. Almost anyone is susceptible to the condition. A motorist survey found that close to 80% of drivers admitted to grappling with serious anger behind the wheel at least once a year.
What road rage looks like
The behavior of drivers in this mental state creates abundant opportunities for accidents. Common road rage maneuvers include:
- Tailgating
- Changing lanes erratically
- Honking and yelling
- Gesturing obscenely
- Purposefully hitting another vehicle
- Confronting other drivers outside vehicles
Car accidents resulting from this behavior may involve the original target of the road rage or perhaps other motorists. The weaving and speeding aggressive driver could crash with someone who was expecting traffic to move normally. You could suffer a hit-and-run crash because the person overcome by rage fears prosecution for reckless driving and liability for your damages.
Protect yourself from road rage
In many situations, the person who incited road rage in another driver was obeying traffic law. When someone honks and yells at you or drives dangerously close to your vehicle, you need to try to move away. If possible get out of the angry driver’s way. Do not stop if the hostile person remains close. The driver may stop and confront you. Keep driving until the vehicle leaves you alone. If you feel especially threatened, you could call 911 and report the vehicle. If you or a loved one have been involved in a road rage collision, please contact us at The Law Office of Aman N. Shah to discuss your legal options.
