We’ve all seen them on the roads — those aggressive drivers whose rage apparently knows no bounds. But are they merely rude and lacking in common sense and manners, or do they pose a deadly problem?
The latter is true and backed up by statistics provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Almost a third of all auto accidents and two-thirds of collisions involving one or more deaths arise from aggressive driving behaviors.
Some examples of reckless and aggressive actions while driving include:
— Tailgating
— Going too fast in heavy traffic
— Weaving back and forth between lanes
— Not using turning signals
— Not allowing cars to change lanes or pass
— Flashing bright lights at approaching drivers to blind them
— Cutting into the fast lane and slowing down
All of those above driving behaviors are irresponsible and contribute to the risk of collisions while still falling short of the malevolence of road rage incidents. All too often road rage escalates to deadly violence. Below are examples of road rage.
— Sideswiping another car
— Ramming a car from behind
— Making obscene gestures or cursing at other drivers
— Running drivers off the road
— Shooting a gun or pointing it at another driver
If you have been victimized and injured by the aggressive driving or road rage of another motorist, it might be necessary to pursue a civil claim through the North Carolina court system. Criminal convictions are not necessary in order to seek financial compensation. A personal injury attorney can review the circumstances of your case and advise you on how to proceed.
Source: AAA, “Aggressive Driving,” accessed April. 09, 2015
