Aggressive Driving Behaviors to Avoid
We all have bad days, but taking your anger out on other drivers puts everyone at risk. Aggressive driving continues to be a problem on our nation’s highways, resulting in crashes and collisions that can cause serious and potentially fatal injuries. Car accident injuries caused by aggressive driving can impact every aspect of your life, resulting in medical expenses, lost wages, and even permanent disability. When you are behind the wheel, it is important to know the types of driving behaviors that could endanger you and other drivers. At the same time, knowing what to do if you encounter an aggressive driver can help to keep you and your loved ones safe.
Types of Aggressive Driving
According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), aggressive driving is a major problem on America’s roadways. The III cites research stating that more than 50 percent of all accidents can in some way be attributed to aggressive driving behaviors, and speeding in particular was linked to serious accidents and fatalities. In addition to speeding, some of the most dangerous types of driving behaviors to avoid include the following:
- Tailgating, or following improperly
- Improper lane changes and cutting other drivers off
- Passing on the shoulder, in opposing lanes, or where prohibited
- Failing to yield right of way
- Disregarding traffic signs or signals and running red lights
- Improper turns and failing to signal
While we are all in a hurry sometimes, indulging in these types of dangerous driving behaviors could exact a heavy price when it comes to being involved or causing serious car accidents and injuries.
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What To Do If You Encounter An Aggressive Driver
Aggressive driving endangers everyone. Simply avoiding aggressive driving behavior yourself is not always enough to ensure your safety. If you should happen to encounter a dangerous driver on the road, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones and prevent a potential car accident from occurring by following these safety tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
- Steer clear. Give aggressive drivers plenty of space, and pull over or get off at the next exit if you need to
- Do not take the bait. If confronted by an aggressive driver, fight the urge to respond in any way. Do not speed up or attempt to block them from passing, and do not engage in yelling matches or by flashing your lights or by making hand gestures
- Report dangerous behavior. At the earliest safe opportunity, pull over and report the incident to 911 or to the local highway patrol
Contact Our Office for Help
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, contact the Anastopoulo Law Firm. Our experienced South Carolina car accident attorneys can advise you on how to hold responsible parties accountable for their actions, and assist you in getting the compensation you deserve. With offices in Charleston and throughout South Carolina, we are prepared to assist you. Call Anastopoulo Law Firm today for a free review of your case.
Call or text 803-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
