Signs of Road Rage Driving Behavior
When it comes to avoiding car wrecks on our Texas roadways, there is only so much drivers can do to protect themselves and their fellow passengers from experiencing accident and injury. Prevention efforts can go a long way, which is why statewide and nationwide authorities, along with transportation advocates, harp so strongly on the need for drivers to remain alert, aware, and prepared before venturing out to travel the highways.
Road Rage Red Flags
One aspect of our daily travels that we cannot control is another driver’s behavior. This is especially the case when it comes to aggressive driving, commonly referred to as road rage. Aggressive driving is an indicator that the person behind the wheel is in an impulsive state, possibly intoxicated, under the influence of various drugs or emotionally unstable on some level. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), road rage incidents are the product of disagreements between drivers, which sometimes result in physical assault.
In order to protect ourselves and those riding with us, our very best defense against aggressive driving behavior is to be alert and cautious of what is happening around us. Here are some red flags that point to road rage and how we should react when we have encounters with these aggressive driving behaviors:
- Speeding – Speeding is often a sure sign of road rage. If a driver speeds around you, it is recommended that you stay out of the driver’s way and allow them to pass you. Do not challenge them or attempt to stay in their path in order to prove a point. Doing so will only further agitate the driver and place you in greater danger.
- Tailgating – Speeding is typically paired with tailgating behavior. If a driver is riding dangerously close to the rear of your car, especially at an excessive speed, this is aggressive driving behavior and should be addressed right away. Avoid slowing down or getting in the driver’s way, and when they attempt to pass you or pull up next to you, do not make eye contact, as it can encourage the behavior and cause the incident to escalate.
- Running stop signs or red lights – Speeding through roadway signals and signs is another major indicator that a driver is operating their vehicle aggressively. If you notice someone run a stop sign, fly through a red light, or ignore important crosswalks or other crucial roadway instructions, steer clear of the vicinity around them until they have passed you and are officially out of sight.
- Aggressive hand and facial gestures – It is not uncommon for angry drivers to lash out at other drivers with gestures or verbal assaults. If an aggressive driver makes any gestures at you, it is important to ignore them. Do not try to communicate or return their angry gestures with inappropriate ones of your own. Avoid contact in general and move your vehicle as far away from theirs as possible.
In addition to these tips, another important rule of thumb for everyone who encounters an aggressive driver is to make sure they are properly restrained. Wearing your seatbelt is critical when operating a vehicle, especially in the midst of a road rage incident. If you have been injured in a road-rage related collision, do not place your rights at risk. Speak with a competent New Braunfels car accident attorney right away to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to. Call the Bettersworth Law Firm at 830-443-9193 for a personal consultation today.
Sources:
http://www.tdi.texas.gov/pubs/videoresource/fsroadrage.pdf
http://www.txdot.gov/driver/share-road/aggressive-drivers.html
