Road rage and aggressive driving are factors in many accidents every year in Rhode Island, some of which have led to serious injuries and wrongful death. The American Safety Council estimates that aggressive driving plays a role in 66 percent of all traffic fatalities, and 37 percent of aggressive driving incidents involve a firearm.
If you have been a victim of a car accident caused by road rage or aggressive driving, the Rhode Island car accident lawyers at Marasco & Nesselbush understand the trauma you are going through, and we want to help. Our experience and understanding of Rhode Island law have allowed us to obtain exceptional results for victims of road rage.
Our attorneys for aggressive driving accidents are committed to securing just compensation for clients to allow them to move beyond devastating injuries and losses.
You can contact us at any of our offices in Providence, RI; East Providence, RI; Warwick, RI; Wakefield, RI; Woonsocket, RI; and Quincy, MA, and by calling (401)-289-1405 or filling out our online contact form.
Defining Road Rage And Aggressive Driving
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines aggressive driving as “when individuals commit a combination of moving traffic offenses so as to endanger other persons or property.” It also can be defined as “the operation of a motor vehicle involving three or more moving violations as part of a single continuous sequence of driving acts, which is likely to endanger any person or property.”
Aggressive driving can easily escalate into an incident of road rage that can endanger the lives of everyone involved. Road rage is defined by NHTSA as “an assault with a motor vehicle or other dangerous weapon by the operator or passenger(s) of another motor vehicle or an assault precipitated by an incident that occurred on the roadway.” It also states that road rage involves “the willful and wanton disregard for the safety of others.”
Common Aggressive Driving and Road Rage Warning Signs
Being able to identify aggressive driving and road rage is essential for ensuring safety on the road. Both behaviors pose significant risks not only to the individuals involved but also to other road users.
Examples of aggressive driving and road rage include:
- Repeatedly darting from one lane to another
- “Cutting off” other vehicles
- Excessive speeding
- Swerving or braking to block other vehicles
- Passing illegally (such as on the shoulder or crossing a double line)
- Braking to make a tailgater mad (sometimes called “brake checking”)
- Road racing
- Failure to signal turns or lane changes
- Flashing headlights and using the horn to excess
- Making obscene gestures and verbal insults
- Confrontational body language
- Running cars off the road
- Weaving through traffic
- Passing on the shoulder
- Intentionally ramming vehicles
- Threatening drivers or displaying weapons
- Chasing drivers off the highway
How Aggressive Driving Can Escalate into Road Rage
Aggressive driving and road rage are dangerous behaviors on the road, often stemming from a buildup of frustration and anger. Understanding the progression from aggressive driving to road rage can help in identifying and mitigating these behaviors before they escalate.
Aggressive Driving: The Beginning Stage
Aggressive driving is typically the initial phase, characterized by behaviors intended to intimidate or inconvenience other drivers. Common signs include:
- Speeding: Driving significantly over the speed limit.
- Tailgating: Following another vehicle too closely.
- Frequent Lane Changes: Weaving in and out of traffic without signaling.
- Ignoring Traffic Signals: Running red lights or stop signs.
- Blocking Lanes: Intentionally blocking other vehicles from changing lanes or merging.
These behaviors often result from impatience, running late, or frustration with traffic conditions.
Escalation to Hostile Intent
As frustration builds, the driver’s behavior may escalate to hostile intent, where the actions are more deliberate and aggressive. This stage includes:
- Honking Excessively: Using the horn frequently and aggressively.
- Yelling or Gesturing: Shouting or making rude gestures at other drivers.
- Cutting Off: Deliberately cutting off other vehicles.
- Brake Checking: Sudden braking to startle the driver behind.
At this point, the driver’s emotions are heightened, and their driving becomes more unpredictable.
Transition to Road Rage
Road rage is the most severe stage, where aggressive driving evolves into outright anger and violent intent. This includes:
- Physical Confrontation: Getting out of the vehicle to confront another driver.
- Using the Vehicle as a Weapon: Intentional ramming or trying to force another vehicle off the road.
- Extreme Tailgating: Following another car dangerously close for an extended period.
- Throwing Objects: Tossing items at another vehicle.
In this stage, the driver’s actions pose a significant risk to themselves and others, potentially leading to accidents, injuries, or even fatalities.
What Road Rage Crash Victims Should Do At The Scene
If you find yourself a victim of road rage or aggressive driving, it is important that you protect your safety. Never engage in yelling, rude gestures, or any other form of antagonistic behavior that could further anger the other driver, no matter the provocation.
If another driver begins acting aggressively, it is important to take a deep breath and remain calm.
If you are involved in a road rage or aggressive driving accident, there are several steps you can take to protect your immediate safety and your long-term right to compensation. After you are sure that you are in a safe position, note the license plate number of the other vehicle, its make and model, and anything else you can recall. Being able to identify the individual who caused the accident or assaulted you is a key issue in your case.
Assault Is Defined As A Threat That Places You In Fear Of Being Harmed. Battery Is Defined As Harmful Or Offensive Contact Without Consent.
Proving Road Rage Caused Your Crash
Our personal injury attorneys can further investigate the accident for evidence that another driver’s road rage or aggressive driving was responsible for your injuries. We frequently work with independent investigators, accident reconstruction specialists, and other experts to determine the true cause of a car accident.
Witness statements, security video, skid marks, vehicle damage, and other types of evidence may help establish that another driver’s road rage or aggressive driving caused the accident that resulted in your injuries. A thorough analysis of your case should be undertaken as early as possible before evidence and witnesses fade away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should You Do if Someone is Driving Aggressively?
If you encounter an aggressive driver, your safety is the top priority. Here’s what you should do:
- Stay Calm: Keep your emotions in check and avoid reacting to their behavior.
- Maintain Distance: Increase your following distance to give yourself more time to react. Avoid tailgating or getting too close.
- Do Not Engage: Avoid eye contact, obscene gestures, or attempting to confront the aggressive driver. Ignoring their behavior is often the best course of action.
- Use Your Signals: Use your turn signals and brake lights to communicate your intentions clearly. This helps reduce misunderstandings and potential conflicts.
- Pull Over Safely: If you feel threatened, find a safe place to pull over, such as a gas station or rest area, and let the aggressive driver pass.
- Call for Help: If the situation escalates or you feel unsafe, call 911. Provide your location, a description of the aggressive driver, and their vehicle details.
What Kind of Penalties Do Road Rage Drivers Face?
Road rage is considered a serious offense, and penalties can vary depending on the severity of the behavior and local laws. Common penalties include:
- Traffic Violations: Aggressive driving behaviors such as speeding, tailgating, and running red lights may result in fines, points on your driving record, and license suspension.
- Criminal Charges: In cases of extreme aggression, such as intentional ramming or physical confrontation, drivers can face criminal charges, such as reckless driving, assault with a vehicle, or even attempted murder.
- License Suspension or Revocation: Convictions related to road rage can lead to suspension or revocation of your driving license, particularly if the behavior is deemed dangerous or habitual.
- Fines and Penalties: Fines can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the specific offense and its consequences.
- Jail Time: Severe incidents involving violence or harm to others can result in jail time, ranging from a few months to several years, depending on the charges and the outcome of the incident.
What to Do If You Were Injured in a Road Rage Incident?
If you are injured in a road rage incident, taking the right steps can help protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the priority. Call emergency services or go to the nearest hospital for evaluation and treatment.
- Document the Incident: If possible, take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any damage to your vehicle. Gather contact information from witnesses and note their statements.
- Report to Authorities: File a police report detailing the incident. Provide them with all relevant information, including the aggressor’s vehicle description, license plate number, and any evidence you have collected.
- Contact an Attorney: Consult with a personal injury lawyer who is experienced in road rage cases. They can help you understand your rights, navigate insurance claims, and pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.
- Keep Records: Maintain detailed records of your medical treatments, expenses, lost wages, and any other related costs. These documents are crucial for your compensation claim.
Call the Car Attorneys at Marasco & Nesselbush for a Free Consultation!
Dealing with the aftermath of a road rage or aggressive driving incident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. The experienced personal injury lawyers at Marasco & Nesselbush are here to help you navigate the legal complexities and ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Marasco & Nesselbush?
- Expert Legal Guidance: Our attorneys specialize in personal injury cases, including those involving aggressive driving and road rage. We understand the nuances of these cases and will provide you with expert legal advice tailored to your situation.
- Maximize Your Compensation: We are committed to fighting for your rights and will work diligently to secure the maximum compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- No Fees Until We Win: We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t pay any legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation, or call 401-289-1405 and learn how we can protect your rights. We have offices conveniently located in Warwick, Wakefield, Woonsocket, Providence, East Providence, and Quincy, MA, and we are here to help you.