All of us have experienced being targeted by an aggressive driver at one time or another. They’re in the car behind you, laying on the horn and flashing their lights. As they are flying past you the driver flashes an obscene gesture at you. Naturally, your first reaction is to yell at them but experts advise that you try to ignore them so as not to add fuel to the growing fire.
Aggressive driving, also known as road rage, is on the rise. According to the American Auto Association, road rage contributed to over 12,000 injuries and more than 700 murders in the last seven years.
Recognizing an aggressive driver
Keeping an eye out for aggressive drivers is key to avoiding being seriously injured in a road rage-fueled accident. Some signs of aggressive driving include:
- Tailgating you
- Side swiping your car
- Trying to run you off the road
- Brake checking
- Cutting you off
- Flashing a weapon at you
- Yelling obscenities
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Speeding excessively
- Getting out of their car to confront you
- Assaulting you or attempting to harm you
Any one of these actions can lead to serious injury or death. That’s why the best thing you can do when confronted with a raging driver is to get out of their way. If possible, pull over to the shoulder and let them pass you by. If you are able to safely do so, take a picture of the driver’s license plate. Then, call 9-1-1 and tell them about the driver.
If you are seriously injured in a car accident caused by an aggressive driver, you have options. To find out what those are seek guidance from someone who can assist you with your claim.