The Connection Between Car Accidents and Aggressive Driving Behaviors

The Connection Between Car Accidents and Aggressive Driving Behaviors

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In Alabama, aggressive driving has become a major concern in almost every city. Unfortunately, aggressive driving often results in catastrophic injuries or fatalities because of the dangerous actions of the at-fault driver. If you have been injured because of the negligence of an aggressive motorist, you should be able to hold them accountable for your injuries and losses. A robust and reliable car accident attorney can help you obtain the maximum compensation you are entitled to in this case.

What Does Aggressive Driving Include?

Aggressive driving is defined by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) as when persons and property are endangered by a driver committing a combination of several moving traffic offenses. These are a few common types of aggressive driving:

  • Tailgating
  • Speeding
  • Running red lights
  • Unsafe lane changes
  • Failure to obey stop signs, traffic signals, and yield signs
  • Passing in zones where it is prohibited
  • Driving illegally on the sidewalk, shoulder, or median
  • Ignoring signals from other drivers
  • Failure to signal lane changes and turns
  • Driving in a reckless, erratic, or negligent manner
  • Failure to yield the right of way
  • Taking out frustration on other road users

The link between Aggressive Driving, Road Rage, and Car Accidents on Alabama Roads

Aggressive driving frequently escalates to road rage, which is defined as “a physical assault of a person or vehicle as a result of a traffic incident” by the National Safety Council (NSC). Statistics related to aggressive driving and car accidents are:

  • Aggressive driving and road rage are usually exhibited by young males
  • Firearms are part of 37% of road rage incidents
  • 12,610 injuries were attributed to aggressive driving in recent years

Certain types of road rage behavior can be charged criminally. Drivers engaged in aggressive behavior can be held with vehicular assault. A perpetrator can be held responsible in case of a fatal car accident. Motorists can take several measures for protecting themselves from aggressive drivers.

Road rage and aggressive driving are serious issues. These pose a real risk on American roadways. Aggressive driving can result in both fatal and nonfatal injuries. You can sue an aggressive driver for any personal injury and property damage. You should talk to an experienced personal injury attorney to explore your legal options for obtaining financial recovery from the liable parties.

Steps to Take After Encountering an Aggressive Driver

It can be traumatic to share the road with an aggressive driver. You should take the following steps if you encounter an aggressive driver on the streets:

  • Keep your car far away from the aggressive driver. It is best to allow them to pass. In fact, you should leave several car lengths between your vehicle and theirs.
  • Never try to provoke or engage an aggressive driver by making eye contact, rolling down your window, or saying something.
  • Never respond to someone’s aggression by getting out of your car.
  • If you find an aggressive driver trying to chase you, drive to the nearest police station, fire station, hospital, or public place. Remain locked in your car even if the aggressive driver resorts to road rage. Call 911 immediately if you feel threatened.

You should try and remain courteous in the face of aggressive driving. Make sure you follow the rules of the road. In relation to this, if the aggressive driving incident turns nasty and you end up getting hurt, you should consider filing a personal injury lawsuit against the driver.

Do You Need a Lawyer in the Aftermath of an Aggressive Driving Accident?

Dealing with an aggressive driver on your own can be a stressful and painful experience. This is especially true for those that like following the rules of traffic and are not prepared to tackle the egregious behavior of an aggressive driver. While you may be tempted to confront an aggressive driver on the road, it is best to remain at a safe distance and drive safely.

You should consult with a competent car accident attorney if you were injured by an aggressive driver. Your attorney will help you gather the necessary evidence required to win a successful personal injury claim. They will also evaluate the facts surrounding your claim to establish that the other driver’s negligent or egregious behavior caused your accident.

The goal of any skilled car accident attorney is to obtain the largest possible settlement or verdict for your injuries and pain and suffering resulting from an aggressive driving accident. The attorney will handle all communications and negotiations with the at-fault party’s insurance company. They will also build a strong trial strategy and take the case to court if the insurance company fails to provide a fair settlement.

There are strict deadlines for filing a car accident claim in Alabama. It’s best to consult with an aggressive driving injury lawyer as soon as possible to preserve evidence and build a compelling case for damages.

Our Capable Car Accident Lawyers are Ready to Fight for You

The experienced and proven car accident attorneys at the Smith Law Firm have successfully represented injured victims and their families to obtain the highest possible compensation after their car accidents. If you or someone you love was injured in an auto accident due to the negligent or aggressive conduct of another driver, our attorneys will fight to obtain the justice and compensation you deserve. To set up your initial consultation , call 334-702-1744 or reach us online.