According to a study conducted by State Farm and KRC Research, 64 percent of United States drivers faced an aggressive driver at least six times in the past three months. The survey also found that the leading reasons for aggressive driving included being late for work, being stuck in a traffic jam, or facing a lane or road closure. The frequency of these incidents makes aggressive drivers more common on the roads.
No matter the excuse, there is never a good reason to put oneself and other drivers in danger; aggressive driving can lead to a severe motor vehicle accident. This ultimately puts other drivers at risk for injuries or even death. Drivers who get in an accident with an aggressive driver should contact an experienced lawyer.
What Is Aggressive Driving?
When an individual has little regard for another driver on the road, that is considered aggressive driving. Aggressive driving can manifest itself in many ways; however, the identifiable factor is that the driver is typically driving or behaving recklessly. Aggressive driving includes:
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Intentionally cutting off another vehicle
- Passing on the shoulder
- Yelling at another driver
- Unnecessary honking
- Intentionally hitting another vehicle
Tips for Drivers
In order to avoid any conflict, drivers should try to drive defensively. A few ways a driver can drive defensively includes keeping a safe distance from other vehicles, maintaining a safe speed, and being aware of their surroundings. Doing this ultimately promotes safety for the driver themselves and other drivers around them.
When dealing with an aggressive driver, one should stay calm, lock their doors, and not make any eye contact. These are important tips, especially if the driver is behaving in a threatening manner. It might feel good in the moment to display anger to an aggressive driver, but it could make matters much worse.
Avoid Aggressive Behaviors
In order to avoid being an aggressive driver, drivers should give themselves more time in the morning to make it safely to their destination. This prevents a driver from becoming anxious and participating in dangerous behaviors while behind the wheel. They should also remain calm when stuck in traffic. Some ways to remain calm are listening to relaxing music and keeping a comfortable temperature. If a driver finds themselves feeling frustrated while driving, they should try to park at a rest stop or pull over until they gain their composure.
Egg Harbor Township Car Accident Lawyers at the D’Amato Law Firm Advocate for Those Affected by Aggressive Drivers
If you are dealing with the effects of a motor vehicle accident due to the actions of an aggressive driver, you need to contact one of our skilled Egg Harbor Township car accident lawyers at the D’Amato Law Firm. Our lawyers help clients obtain entitled monetary compensation for losses, including medical bills, vehicular damage, and pain and suffering. If you are interested in consulting with a car accident lawyer, contact us online or call us at 609-926-3300 for a free consultation. With an office located in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients in Atlantic City, Linwood, Galloway Township, Cape May, Vineland, Millville, Bridgeton, Ocean City, Woodbury, and throughout South Jersey.