When does aggressive driving rise to the level of road rage?

We’ve all been through a lot in the past couple of years, and we have see the toll it has taken on people’s patience and manners. Unfortunately, anger and frustration have been all too common among drivers during the pandemic years.

Road rage is nothing new. In 2019, over 80% of people surveyed said they had been guilty of road rage at some point over the last year, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that aggressive driving is responsible for about two-thirds of all traffic deaths.

However, not all instances of aggressive driving amount to road rage, but road rage is definitely a type of aggressive driving. In general, aggressive driving may involve speeding, tailgating, cutting someone off or preventing another vehicle from passing you. Many instances of aggressive driving lead to traffic citations.

Aggressive driving may rise to the level of road rage if the behavior involves some sort of violent intention, such as intentionally colliding with another vehicle or running someone off he road. Acts of road rage are often considered criminal offenses that go beyond a simple traffic citation. Road rage may also include threatening or assaulting someone. Too often, weapons are involved.

Regardless of the reason for dangerous driving, the point is that it puts people in harm’s way and increases the likelihood of a serious collision. If you have been injured in a crash caused by an aggressive driver, it’s important that you seek legal guidance to help ensure that you get the financial compensation you deserve. Our New Mexico Car Accident Overview has more information about the options available to injury victims.