Aggressive Driving and Road Rage Increase Risk of Car Accidents In Aiken
Between ongoing concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic, protests, and other problems going on around the country, people are feeling increasingly frustrated, which can lead to aggression. When this happens behind the wheel, aggressive driving and road rage can increase the risk of car accidents. During these turbulent times in Aiken and across the nation, it is important to be aware of potential dangers.
Vehicle Shooting Results in Car Accident Near Aiken
WRDW News reported that police were called to the scene of a car accident that occurred near the Barnwell/Aiken County line at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, October 30, 2020. A vehicle was found crashed on the side of highway 278 with several bullet holes in it. A male driver and a pregnant female passenger were found inside, having suffered gunshot wounds and other injuries. Witnesses claim to have seen another car drive alongside them and open fire, causing the victims to run off the road. It is not clear what caused the altercation and no suspects have been identified, but police are continuing to investigate the case.
Two months ago, a similar incident was reported in Lancaster County. A report by WBTW News stated that one motorist shot at another near Charlotte Highway and Highway 160. After an altercation on the highway, the victim (who was driving a pickup truck and had two young daughters sitting in the back seat) had stopped at a nearby gas station. The shooter followed and pulled up alongside the vehicle, firing several shots into the passenger side window before fleeing the scene. Fortunately, only minor injuries were reported and the police were able to make an arrest within days. They attribute the incident to road rage and that similar types of altercations have been recently reported throughout the state.
Aggressive Driving and Road Rage
Road rage is a term that became popular in the 1990s to describe aggressive, angry drivers who threaten and act out against other motorists. It continues to be a common problem on roads today. The Insurance Information Institute (III) warns that all motorists need to take precautions to prevent becoming either a perpetrator or victim of road rage. Drivers who have a tendency to lose their cool are advised to practice the following:
Leave early when going to work or making other trips, which will reduce the risks of getting frustrated in traffic.
Avoid aggressive behaviors such as tailgating and failure to yield.
Do not honk your horn excessively, yell at other motorists, or make hand gestures.
Never attempt to confront another driver. If you have serious concerns about someone’s driving abilities, contact the police.
Likewise, if you encounter an aggressive or angry driver on the road, do not engage with them or take their behavior personally. If they threaten you or if any type of car accident happens, notify law enforcement immediately.
Contact Our Aiken Car Accident Attorneys
Aggressive driving and road rage can increase the risk of car accidents. At the Surasky Law Firm in Aiken County, we can help you hold aggressive drivers accountable for injuries you suffer as a result of their actions. Contact our Aiken car accident attorney to request a consultation today.
