Your Best Defense Against Aggressive Driving
April 6, 2016
Your Best Defense Against Aggressive Driving
Tips to Avoid Auto Accidents in Sarasota
Nobody expects to get involved in an auto accident when getting behind the wheel of the car. Unfortunately, you risk being involved in an auto accident in Sarasota every time you are on the road.
Although most drivers practice safe driving techniques to avoid being in an accident, millions of auto accidents still occur across the nation and in Florida each year. Most auto accidents in Sarasota result in only damage to property, but even an accident in which no one was injured can be very costly in terms of the disruption it causes in our lives. Because you cannot control the actions of other drivers on the road, you are always at-risk of having your life disrupted by the actions of those who choose to drive carelessly and without regard to the safety of others.
Aggressive Driving and Road Rage In Florida
One of the most common causes of auto accidents on Florida roads is aggressive driving. A motorist is driving aggressively whenever he or she deliberately operates a vehicle in a manner that increases the risk of an accident occurring. This includes:
• Speeding
• Tailgating
• Frequently and suddenly changing lanes
• Failing to signal when turning or changing lanes
• Ignoring road signs
• Passing on the shoulder
• Recklessly cutting into the path of other drivers
• Driving slowly in a passing lane.
According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, more than half of all traffic-related fatalities are caused by aggressive driving.
Aggressive driving in its most extreme form is referred to as “road rage,” which involves a driver becoming violently agitated and driving in a threatening manner, or intentionally trying to cause harm to others. Road rage often leads to violent collisions and physical altercations on and off the road.
Defense Against Aggressive Driving
We have all been on the road with an aggressive driver at one time or another, and chances are high that we will encounter one again. Your best defense against an aggressive driver is to be aware of the other drivers around you at all times. If you witness someone driving recklessly or in a threatening manner, here is what you should do:
- Stay calm,
- Stay clear of them and give them lots of room
- Don’t attempt to retaliate
- Don’t engage them with eye contact,
- Don’t allow them to pick a fight with you,
- Don’t invite them – or accept any invitation – to pull over and settle things “man to man,” and
- Call the police if you need help.
Furthermore, avoid driving aggressively yourself. Driving too slowly in a passing lane, tailgating or cutting other drivers off is the kind of behavior that will enrage drivers around you and lead to incidents of road rage.
Your safety should be your first priority. If you’re involved in an aggressive driving accident, the first thing you should do is seek immediate medical attention. After your health has been attended to, you should contact a Florida accident attorney.
As with all auto accidents, establishing fault for an aggressive driving accident can be complicated. While you take the time to heal from your injuries, your auto accident attorney can help you build your case and file a claim for compensation of your medical expenses, lost wages and damage to your vehicle.
Have You Been the Victim of an Aggressive Driver in Florida? Contact Jodat Law Group Today
With offices in Bradenton, Sarasota, Tampa, and Venice, Jodat Law Group represents auto accident victims and their families throughout Sarasota, Florida. If you or a loved one have been involved in an accident caused by aggressive driving or road rage, feel free to contact us at 877-JODATLAW (877-735-0265) or contact us online for a free consultation. Our aggressive personal injury lawyers, Jodat Law Group will help you get back on your feet!
