In the United States, road rage accounts for 54% of motor vehicle accidents. Add to that the fact that at least 37% of drivers carry a gun in their car and you have a recipe for disaster. Every year, 30 murders are committed by aggressive drivers.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, aggressive driving is when “an individual commits a combination of moving traffic offenses so as to endanger other persons or property.” Road rage occurs when the aggressive driver takes it one step further and puts other drivers in danger.
How to respond to road rage
There isn’t a whole lot that you can do to avoid aggressive drivers who are acting out. If someone is angry it’s best to get out of their way. Pull over to the side of the road and let them pass. If possible, try to get a picture of the aggressive driver’s license plate. Also, call 911 and report the driver.
What if I’m injured in a road rage accident?
At the first sign of trouble, do your best to pull over to the side of the road. If you’ve been in an accident as a result of another person’s road rage, do not engage with that driver. The rude gestures and aggressive honking may continue. Ignore it and take in your surroundings.
If you are able to get out of your car, check on any other people that may have been in the accident. Call 911 and explain what happened. Once help arrives, allow the medics to assess your injuries and transport you to the hospital if need be.
Once you are on the mend, seek out legal assistance to help you recover lost wages and the cost of hospitalization.