It’s no secret that some people make objectively poor decisions while on the road, whether they unsafely merge across multiple lanes of traffic to avoid missing an exit or fail to yield at intersections, you may grow frustrated with these choices. However, when you are targeted by someone who is experiencing road rage, it can be a dangerous and scary situation. As such, if you have been injured by the actions of an angry driver, the following blog explores what you should know about your legal options. The following blog explores what you should know about your legal options following a collision and the importance of working with a Contra Costa County car accident lawyer to help you fight for the justice you deserve.

What Is Road Rage?

While you may grow frustrated with the choices of other drivers on the road, your annoyance may be fleeting. Some drivers, however, can fall into a blind rage when they are slighted by the actions of others. Unfortunately, this road rage is characterized by a deep-seated anger that does not dissipate. Drivers who experience road rage may exhibit the following behaviors:

  • Yelling
  • Cursing
  • Making obscene gestures
  • Unsafe lane changes or utilizing the shoulder
  • Tailgating
  • Throwing objects at the car
  • Attempting to run the driver off the road
  • Intentionally hitting another car

Unfortunately, road rage can be dangerous for a number of reasons. Not only can the driver experiencing road rage intentionally cause injury to the other driver, but their rage can also make them more susceptible to causing an accident. When a driver is focused on enacting “revenge” or harassing another vehicle, their attention is no longer on the task at hand, which in turn can lead them to make errors or be unable to avoid hazards, ultimately leading to a collision.

What Should I Do if I’m Hurt By a Reckless Driver?

If you are injured by the actions of a reckless and negligent driver, understanding your legal options is critical. Generally, the most important thing you must do following a collision is call 911 to report the accident and request emergency medical attention. While on the phone, you should inform the operator of the driver’s aggressive behavior. Additionally, while you may typically exchange information with the other driver while waiting for the police to arrive, if the driver is experiencing road rage, it is in your best interest to remain in your vehicle with the doors locked until law enforcement arrives on the scene. Instead, the police can help you safely obtain this information after they arrive.

Being the victim of a road rage accident can be incredibly scary and traumatic. At O’Connor Law APC, our team understands how overwhelming these matters can be to navigate, which is why we will doe everythin gin pour pwoer to help you recover the compensation and justice you deserve for the damage you’ve been subjected to. Contact us today to learn how we can fight for you.