KEEPING SAFE FROM AGGRESSIVE DRIVERS
One experience many Ohio drivers are familiar with is an angry motorist cutting them off or blaring their horn in frustration when commuting to or from work. These incidents are unfortunate and just mild examples of a growing road rage problem across the United States. A recent report by AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety highlighted this when it found that 80% of drivers have committed at least one road rage incident in 2020.
The Buckeye State has also seen its own share of increased road rage incidents. Speeding, a common form of this dangerous behavior, had a staggering 46% increase in 2020. According to the Ohio Highway State Patrol, many drivers drove at speeds over 100 miles per hour in the first two quarters of last year.
What is Road Rage?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, road rage involves one or more individuals who commit traffic offenses that can harm other drivers or property.
As mentioned before, speeding is a leading cause of fatal crashes in Ohio and around the U.S. and often begins with aggressive behavior behind the wheel. In addition to dangerous speed patterns, the below actions may signal road rage:
Tailgating
Yelling
Excessive honking
Angry gestures
Intentionally preventing lane changes
Cutting off other vehicles
Refusing to yield right of way
Erratic and/or aggressive lane changing
Driving recklessly
Racing
Turning on brights to blind another driver
How to Avoid Road Rage Incidents While Driving in Ohio
A critical aspect of avoiding road rage incidents is to prevent a tense driving situation from escalating into one. There are a few steps you can take to avoid involvement in these highly dangerous situations. Consider the tips below should you find yourself dealing with an irate driver on the road with you:
Stay calm and do not retaliate
Try to avoid eye contact with aggressive drivers
If being tailgated, move out of their lane
If someone appears to purposely follow you, let them pass or pull out of their way
Only use your horn in emergencies
If in fear for your life, call 911 immediately
The most important tip is to stay calm and not let your temper get the better of you. Remember, while someone may be annoying or driving terribly, the risk is not worth the anger. Such drivers could be carrying a weapon or cause you physical harm in a confrontation.
What to do if You are in a Road Rage Accident
Aggressive driving leads to accidents, and you should not have to suffer because of another driver losing control of their temper. If you were hurt in an accident caused by a road rage incident, speak with the experienced Ohio car accident attorneys of Diehl & Hubbell.
We are easily accessible for anyone in Southwestern Ohio, including the communities of Lebanon, Hillsboro, Wilmington, and Hamilton. Diehl & Hubbell has a reputation that you can trust to ensure you get the fair compensation you deserve. Contact our office online or call us to schedule a free initial consultation.