Road rage is often the end result of aggressive driving, which is considered a traffic violation. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines aggressive driving as when “an individual commits a combination of moving traffic offenses so as to endanger other persons or property.” Road rage occurs when the aggressive driver takes it a step further and puts other drivers in physical danger, thus committing a criminal act.
Statistics show that the number of incidents involving road rage has skyrocketed by 500% over the past ten years. The primary reason for drivers losing their temper is being late. They tend to get angry at any vehicle that obstructs their path or slows them down. Moreover, they often dehumanize other drivers by treating them as mere obstacles in their way.
Recognizing Road Rage
Every driver needs to be able to spot an enraged driver. Road rage can manifest in several ways, such as:
- screaming and yelling at other drivers
- making aggressive gestures
- brake-checking the car behind them
- honking the horn and flashing lights
- brandishing a weapon
- deliberately trying to force another car off the road
- inciting a physical altercation by attempting to get the other driver out of their car.
It is important to note that angry drivers with firearms are responsible for 30 homicides annually. Therefore, when faced with a road rage situation, the best thing that you can do is to let them pass you by without any acknowledgment.
When accidents occur due to Road Rage
If you are injured in a road rage-related accident, call 911. When help arrives, let the emergency personnel examine your wounds and, if necessary, take you to the hospital. You may need assistance with your medical bills as a result of the accident. Seek legal advice as soon as you’re able in order to recoup lost income and hospital expenses.