Road rage is a dangerous episode of violent or uncontrolled anger by a driver in response to a driving situation. Road rage can play a role in catastrophic and deadly car accidents. A driver who is experiencing road rage is more likely to speed, race, tailgate, weave in and out of traffic, and take other aggressive actions that can result in a crash. It is important to handle this volatile situation correctly to protect yourself from danger as much as possible.
Remain Calm
If a driver near you is exhibiting signs of road rage – such as yelling, swearing, gesturing, honking or driving erratically – do your best to remain calm. Do not match the driver’s emotions or behaviors with your own, as this could escalate the situation and make it more dangerous. Do not try to cut the other driver off. Try to control your anger or frustration to avoid what may otherwise turn into a car accident or physical confrontation.
Let the Driver Pass
Many road rage incidents arise because the aggressive driver wants to move faster through traffic. If a road rage driver appears to be in a hurry, safely maneuver your vehicle out of the way without engaging with the driver. Let the driver pass you and continue down the road. If the driver appears to be a risk to others or you suspect drunk driving, pull over in a safe location to report the driver to the police. Do not attempt to follow or chase down the road rage driver.
Don’t Engage
Do not make eye contact with a road rage driver or engage in other ways. Do not respond to any rude gestures or provocative behavior. Avoid challenging or confronting the driver. Resist the urge to retaliate or seek revenge. Instead, ignore them and focus on driving safely and responsibly. Not responding or interacting with the driver can help prevent the situation from escalating further.
Involve the Authorities
Your safety is the top priority. If you feel threatened or the driver persists in targeting you, involve the authorities. Call the police or emergency services and report the dangerous driver. If you can see any license plate numbers, give these to the authorities. Provide the police with your location, direction of travel and any details you have about the aggressive driver and his or her vehicle.
Drive to a Police Station
If you are being chased or followed by a road rage driver, take a different route to avoid further interaction. If you are on a highway, exit and take an alternate route. Do not head home if you are being followed. Instead, drive to the nearest police station or pull over in a public place, such as a store or parking lot. This will provide witnesses and security cameras in the event of an incident. Once parked, keep your windows rolled up and your doors locked. Do not exit your vehicle, as this could put you at risk if the driver wants a confrontation. Then, call the authorities.
Injured in a Road Rage Accident? Contact a Car Accident Attorney
If your car gets rammed by a road rage driver or you are otherwise involved in a crash, remain in your vehicle with the doors locked. Check yourself and others for injuries. Turn your hazard lights on to prevent further collisions. Then, call 911 to report the accident. Explain the situation and tell them that you need a law enforcement officer at the scene. Give the police your side of the story when they arrive and write down your police report number.
After seeking medical care for your injuries, consult with a car accident lawyer in Glendale for legal assistance. You may be eligible for compensation from the road rage driver’s insurance provider. Contact The Law Offices of John Phebus Glendale Criminal and Personal Injury Lawyer to learn more.