Aggressive driving or “road rage”, is not a new phenomenon. Nonetheless, the rise in the use of dash cams has meant that these incidents are more broadly understood than they have been in the past.
Studies indicate that aggressive driving contributes to over half of all fatal motor vehicle collisions. What does road rage look like and how can you protect yourself from it?
Defining road age
Simply put, road rage is any form of driving behavior that amounts to outward aggression. Some of the most common examples include:
- Excessive honking of the horn
- Repeatedly flashing headlights
- Rude hand gestures
- Tailgating
- Slamming on the brakes
- Dangerous overtaking
- Getting out of the car for a confrontation
All of these behaviors have the potential to cause serious road traffic collisions. The trouble with road rage incidents is that they can escalate very quickly and result in injuries. Sadly, numerous people are killed every year due to physical violence stemming from road rage incidents in addition to those harmed by rage-related accidents.
Keeping yourself safe
Dealing with a road rage incident is not easy. If you can, it is best to let an aggressive driver pass you. If this is not an option, then you may want to pull over at a public place and alert the authorities. Remember, do not pull over in a private place or at your home address.
Some other tips that might help to protect you include:
- Do not respond to rude hand gestures or requests to pull over
- Try not to make direct eye contact
- Do not speed up to get away
Oftentimes, aggressive drivers are just looking for some kind of response. It is best not to give this to them.
If you have been injured in a road rage incident, then you may be entitled to financial compensation. Seeking as much legal information as possible can help to strengthen your case.