When you’re late to work and every car in front of you is driving slowly or cut off by a driver trying to make their exit, you can become frustrated. However, like many drivers, you may be able to let this frustration go. Unfortunately, this is not the case for all drivers, as some people can experience intense fits of road rage. If you are a victim of another driver’s temper, understanding how a Sacramento auto accident lawyer can help you through these matters is critical. Additionally, the following blog explores road rage in further detail and what to do if you have been involved in an accident.
What Is Road Rage?
Road rage is a term used to describe the overwhelming and often unbridled anger some drivers experience when traveling. Driving can be stressful, especially when you are stuck in traffic or miss your turn. However, when you combine this stress with the negligent or poor decisions of another driver, many can experience road rage as a result.
As such, drivers experiencing road rage can become impatient, aggressive, and erratic.
How Can This Contribute to Accidents?
Drivers who experience road rage are more likely to engage in unsafe and risky behaviors. As such, the likelihood of collisions increases.
When a driver becomes angry or impatient, they may speed to pass traffic. While speeding is inherently dangerous, drivers may use the shoulder to pass vehicles or cross a double yellow line. As such, they can collide with other cars that have the right of way in these instances.
Similarly, if a driver becomes angry, they may tailgate other cars or follow too closely. Because drivers are supposed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle in front of them, tailgating is one of the most common causes of rear-end collisions.
Additionally, drivers who weave in and out of traffic can lead to collisions, as they often do so at high speeds and without using their blinkers to indicate the lane change. As such, unsuspecting drivers can collide with the angry driver since they failed to follow traffic laws and drive safely.
In some instances, drivers may become so enraged by the actions of others that they attempt to collide with the other driver or even run them off the road entirely.
What Should I Do if I’m a Victim of an Enraged Driver?
If another driver’s road rage has led to a collision, understanding your rights during these matters is critical. While in traditional accidents, you may exchange insurance information with the other driver until the police arrive, it is likely unsafe to do so with an enraged and frenzied driver. As such, you should remain in your vehicle with the doors locked, immediately call 911, request the police, and inform the operator about the circumstances so they can provide further assistance.
Additionally, you should contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible if you sustained injuries during this collision. Working with legal representation can help you fight for the compensation you need during these matters. At the Law Offices of Dale R. Gomes, we know how devastating these collisions can be, which is why our team will fight for you during these matters. Connect with us today to learn more.