Aggressive Driving vs. Road Rage
Road rage is characterized by aggressive behavior, including speeding, illegal turns, and improper passing, to name a few. We often hear both terms interchangeably, but many do not realize that there is a difference. Road rage involves taking aggressive driving behaviors to the extreme. While an aggressive driver may not intend to endanger others’ lives, someone exhibiting road rage has a willful disregard for the safety of other road users.
If you have been the victim of an aggressive driver or driver exhibiting road rage behavior, our PA car accident lawyers are dedicated to getting you the compensation to which you are entitled.
What is Aggressive Driving?
Any erratic behavior that ignores traffic rules or the safety of others is known as aggressive driving. It seems that everybody is in a rush to get everywhere these days. Balancing personal and professional obligations can be demanding, causing some drivers to become aggressive behind the wheel.
We see aggressive drivers commuting to work, school, or running errands. Common aggressive driving behaviors include:
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Illegal turns
- Improper passing
- Failing to signal
- Failing to yield
- Erratic lane changes
- Sudden stops
What is Road Rage?
While aggressive driving encompasses erratic behavior, road rage intensifies that behavior. Road rage is behavior that not only entails irresponsible driving but can cause the driver to become aggressive and even violent. So much so that road rage shootings have been on the rise for the past decade. In 2021, 44 people per month were killed or wounded in road rage shootings.
Common road rage behaviors may include:
- Shouting insults or profane language
- Honking in anger
- Forcing another driver off the road
- Blocking another driver from making a lane change
- Making rude or obscene gestures
- Angry gestures
- Pulling over to physically confront another driver
- Threatening or exhibiting violence
Compassionate Counsel in a Time of Chaos
The hard truth is that anyone can be the victim of road rage. Unfortunately, you are the one who ends up enduring medical bills, lost wages, and other costs. If the other motorist exhibiting road rage became violent, your injuries may be excruciating, forcing you to be bedridden and unable to take care of your family. Medical expenses can pile up quickly, leaving you uncertain of what to do, all while you are trying to physically recover.
Our PA car accident lawyers believe that the person who caused your injuries should bear the responsibility of paying these costs. Our legal team will work tirelessly to make sure that you receive fair compensation for your losses while also ensuring that the other driver faces criminal sanctions if applicable.
Victim of Road Rage? Contact Our PA Car Accident Attorneys Now
The world is a chaotic place, with road rage incidents stemming from individuals being unable to handle stress in an emotionally healthy manner. If you have been injured as a result of another person’s road rage, the PA car accident lawyers at HGSK Injury Lawyers are here to provide compassionate counsel during this time. To learn how we can be of service, contact us online or by phone to schedule your complimentary consultation.