Aggressive driving is a disturbingly common phenomenon on the road, resulting in otherwise preventable accidents. Worse still, the number of accidents related to aggressive driving have gone up substantially over time. But what exactly is aggressive driving, and how can you potentially protect yourself from getting into an accident with an aggressive driver?
What is Aggressive Driving?
Broadly speaking, aggressive driving refers to any incident caused by a driver who intentionally engages in reckless or dangerous driving behaviors as a result of frustration or anger. In lesser cases, it can manifest as drivers flaunting the rules of the road and placing themselves and others at an increased risk of harm. In more extreme cases, it can become what is known as “road rage,” with drivers attempting to intentionally cause accidents or otherwise harm others on the road.
What Are the Signs of Aggressive Driving?
Aggressive driving can take many forms, but the signs of a potentially dangerous driver are usually easy to identify. These include, but are not limited to:
- Speeding
- Changing lanes or turning without signaling
- Swerving or zig-zagging between lanes
- Tailgating
- Brake checking
- Ignoring road signs or stop lights
- Cutting off other drivers
- Using profane language or obscene gestures
- Attempting to run other drivers off the road
- Brandishing or using weapons against drivers or vehicles
How Can You Protect Yourself?
The best way to avoid an accident with an aggressive driver is to practice safe driving habits yourself, and to avoid responding in kind. This means doing things like respecting the speed limit and other traffic laws, maintaining a safe stopping distance from any vehicle in front of you, and avoiding potential distractions like cell phones. It also means staying away from any vehicle that appears to be driving erratically or aggressively, as best as you are able.
What Should You Do if You Get Into an Accident?
If you have gotten into a serious accident as a result of an aggressive driver, you should first seek immediate medical attention. After that, however, you should speak to a lawyer with experience handling auto accident cases. They can go over your legal options and help you get justice for the harm you have suffered.
The personal injury attorneys at David J. Lorber & Associates, PLLC will work with you to help you get justice for you or your loved ones who were hurt by someone else’s negligence. For comprehensive personal injury law services in New York, call David J. Lorber & Associates, PLLC at (631) 750-0900 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation at our Setauket office.
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