Aggressive drivers are one of the most common causes of crashes– if you have been injured in a collision, there is a strong likelihood that it was because of someone else’s road rage. When aggressive driving leads to this, it’s essential to act right away to protect your rights. That’s why you should speak with a car accident lawyer at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. about the appropriate steps to take.
How Road Rage Can Lead to Auto Accidents
Some drivers allow themselves to become so angry at other vehicles that they respond by driving dangerously. In contrast, others are stressed for different reasons and find themselves taking out their aggression on the road. Some of the most common forms of aggressive driving include:
- Tailgating
- Speeding
- Running red lights and stop signs
- Cutting off other vehicles
- Changing lanes without using a turn signal
- Using high-beam headlights
These driving behaviors can easily lead to accidents. They can also influence the behavior of other drivers, increasing the risk of a collision.
How to Protect Yourself from Aggressive Drivers
To stay safe on the road, it is essential to avoid driving aggressively. If you see another vehicle engaging in this type of behavior, keep your distance from it and do not respond in kind. Avoid making eye contact with aggressive drivers, and do not make angry gestures. Never try to get revenge on an aggressive driver by driving slowly in front of them, cutting them off, or taking any other dangerous actions. Any temporary satisfaction you might get from such behavior will be far outweighed by the inconvenience and danger of an accident.
What to Do When Road Rage Causes an Accident
Unfortunately, even safe, and responsible driving isn’t always enough to protect you from an accident. If you are involved in a collision caused by someone else who was driving recklessly or aggressively, it’s important to stay calm. Do not get angry at the other driver or communicate with them in any way other than to get their contact and insurance information. Remain polite and non-confrontational.
While it may be tempting to argue with the other driver about their responsibility for the accident, doing this will not help you protect your rights or recover compensation for your damages. Instead, take photos, get the contact information of any witnesses to the accident, and make detailed notes about the accident for your own future reference.
Why You Should Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer
The aftermath of an auto accident can be chaotic, especially if you have suffered serious injuries. When you’re trying to handle this situation on your own, unfortunately, it’s easy for your rights to fall by the wayside. That’s why contacting a personal injury law firm right away is so critical. A car accident attorney’s assistance is essential for negotiating with insurers, gathering evidence, and establishing the facts of your claim.
Contact us for a free consultation
When your life has been disrupted by a serious auto accident, the team at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer & Graifman, P.C. can provide you with the legal assistance you’re looking for. We have been serving clients in Rockland County, NY, and Bergen County, NJ, for nearly half a century. We will always fight hard to uphold your best interests, and we work on a contingency basis. If you’re ready to get started, get in touch with us today to schedule a consultation.