Aggressive drivers put everyone at risk

Does this scenario sound familiar? You’re doing the speed limit (or slightly above) when a car zooms up behind you, and then spends the next few miles aggressively riding your bumper. They begin to pull into the next lane to pass you, only to jerk their car back due to oncoming traffic. When they are finally able to pass you, they give you a few hand gestures before speeding off.

Drivers have a shared responsibility to follow road rules, practice safe driving habits and display courtesy to others on the road. However, aggressive drivers put everyone in danger through their reckless behavior.

What is aggressive driving?

Aggressive driving is characterized by hostile or reckless behavior. The driver is often impatient, frustrated or has a disregard for safety. Aggressive driving has many forms, including:

• Speeding: Driving above the speed limit or too fast for road conditions
• Tailgating: Following another vehicle extremely closely
• Erratic lane changes: Weaving in and out of traffic without signaling or cutting off other drivers
• Ignoring traffic laws: Running red lights and stop signs, attempting to pass in a No Passing zone
• Road rage: Exhibiting hostile actions, such as honking excessively, making obscene or threatening gestures or using their vehicle to intimidate others

These actions increase the likelihood of catastrophic accidents and endanger everyone on the road, including other drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. Aggressive driving is a factor in 54% of all fatal car crashes. The more extreme form of aggressive driving, road rage, caused 218 murders and 12,610 injuries in a 7-year period.

Victims of aggressive drivers carry the burden of physical injuries, medical expenses, lost income, vehicle repairs and emotional distress. Some catastrophic injuries, such as spinal cord damage or traumatic brain injury, may require lifelong care. In accidents involving fatalities, family members grieve the loss of their loved ones. They are left to worry about how they will pay the bills, keep a roof over their heads and have food on the table, especially if the victim was the primary breadwinner.

While filing a personal injury claim can never replace what was lost, it can be a crucial step in securing justice and compensation. It can also provide compensation to cover expenses and replace lost income. With financial resources, victims can begin to rebuild their lives. Working with a legal professional can make all the difference in attaining the compensation you deserve.