As the Temperature Increases, So Do Instances of Road Rage
Driving in the city can be nerve-wracking to begin with, and studies show that the hotter it is outside, the more people let their emotions get the best of them. Even the calmest people can become anxious or angry under certain conditions. However, there is no excuse for allowing this anger to put others at risk. If you have been injured in an accident caused by an angry driver, you might have the right to receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and damage to your property.
How is “Road Rage” Defined
Many people confuse aggressive driving with road rage. While both are dangerous actions, they are quite different from each other. Aggressive driving includes risky behaviors like tailgating, speeding, cutting off other drivers, and weaving through traffic. On the other hand, road rage is about intentionally making other drivers feel threatened with immediate danger. This can involve aggressive gestures, yelling, intentionally hitting another car, pushing a vehicle off the road, or scaring another driver by using brakes or headlights in a way that isn’t needed.
How to Deal with Road Rager’s
In a heated situation, it can be hard to know how to respond when dealing with road rage. To help calm things down when encountering an angry or aggressive driver, think about these steps:
Stay calm – It’s important to keep your cool. Acting aggressively could make things worse and hurt your chances of getting compensation for what you lost.
Avoid eye contact – Looking the other driver in the eyes might make them think you want to fight.
Don’t get involved – Even small actions like shaking your head or showing you’re annoyed can make the other driver more aggressive.
Be prepared – Make sure your seat belt is on, use safe driving methods, and be prepared for a collision if the other driver keeps pushing.
Gather information – As soon as you get to where you’re going, write down everything you remember about the incident and call 911. If the angry driver follows you, go to a public place or a police station instead of heading home.
What if you’re involved in a road rage accident
In the moments following a road rage incident, it’s important to stay calm, notify the authorities, and collect essential details such as the license plate number of the other vehicle and photos of the accident scene. Also, make sure to get medical attention if needed. To protect your right to seek compensation from the at-fault driver, take these proactive measures.
Stay on top of your medical treatment – Regularly going to your doctor’s appointments helps you heal and creates documentation that supports your claims for losses.
Be careful with what you say – Avoid sharing details with insurance adjusters until you’ve talked to a lawyer. When you give a statement, focus on the facts and leave out your personal opinions. Don’t suggest that you might be at fault.
Avoid social media – Sharing information about the incident online can be risky because insurance adjusters often look at your social media for anything they can use against you.
Get assistance from an experienced lawyer – Getting the compensation you deserve can be really challenging, especially since many insurance companies won’t pay for accidents caused by road rage. The driver responsible might be liable for your damages. A lawyer who knows about road rage cases can help you understand your legal choices and advocate for the compensation you should receive.
Remember to document everything – Keeping track of your medical visits, conversations with your lawyer, and any other relevant information can strengthen your case and ensure you get the support you need.
IF YOU’VE BEEN INVOLVED IN A CRASH DUE TO ROAD RAGE, CONTACT THE LAW OFFICE OF BRIAN BRUNSON TODAY.
Named one of the “Best Car Accident Lawyers in Dallas” by Expertise.com, Brian Brunson is Dallas personal injury attorney who is dedicated to helping clients who have suffered a car, truck, or motorcycle injury through the negligent or wrongful conduct of other drivers. In addition, his professionalism is unmatched and the firms’ client reviews speak for themselves.
We proudly serve the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and surrounding areas, our office supports the legal needs of a wide variety of clients. Let the Law Office of Brian Brunson be your advocate in your time of need and help you put your life back together. If we can’t win or settle your case, you don’t pay a dime! We know it can be daunting to take that first step after you’ve been hurt. Contact Brian Brunson today via email or call us toll-free at 1-844-41-WRECK. We can help, when no one else will.