Aggressive Driving Increases Car Accidents and Injury Risks
It can be hard to keep your cool during high traffic conditions. Unfortunately, getting aggravated with other drivers generally does no good. In fact, it can increase your risk of personal injuries as the result of car accidents. See if you can identify with the following types of aggressive driving behaviors, and learn what to do to protect yourself and your passengers if you encounter an aggressive driver on the road.
Common Types of Aggressive Driving Behaviors
Most of us avoid headline making, road rage behavior, such as running other drivers off the road, following them home, or using a weapon to intimidate them. However, when rushed, stressed out, or overly fatigued, it is easy to lash out at drivers you encounter in traffic.
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), as many as 80 percent of drivers admit to getting angry in traffic and taking it out on others in the form of aggressive driving behaviors. Aggressive driving is any type of unsafe behavior that is performed with a blatant disregard for safety, including:
Tailgating
Speeding in heavy traffic conditions
Cutting off other drivers, then slowing down once you are in front of them
Weaving in and out of traffic
Running stop signs or red lights
Failing to signal when changing lanes or making turns
Blocking other drivers who attempt to change lanes
Attempting to blind other drivers with your high beam lights
In the event your conduct does result in an accident, you may be liable for any injuries or property damages that occur.
Protecting Yourself Against Aggressive Drivers
Even if you do not engage in the above types of driving behaviors, chances are good that you will eventually encounter an aggressive driver on the road. To protect yourself and your passengers, the Federal Highway Administration advises you to do the following:
Steer clear. If another driver is tailgating you, switching from lane to lane, or being aggressive in trying to pass, for your own safety it is best to swallow your pride and get out of their way.
Do not engage. When faced with an aggressive driver, avoid eye contact, honking your horn, or making angry gestures, which will only escalate the situation.
Avoid judgement. When a driver is speeding or weaving in and out of traffic, give them the benefit of the doubt. Maybe they just got bad news or are on their way to a sick loved one.
Stay calm. If another driver is acting unwisely, stay calm and composed, and try not to take it personally.
Get Help Today
In the event an accident does occur, notify law enforcement and wait for help to arrive. Get the medical care immediately for any injuries you suffer, and contact the Surasky Law Firm, LLC. We can arrange a free consultation with our experienced South Carolina car accident attorneys, who can advise you on how to hold responsible parties accountable so you can get the compensation you need to recover.
