Spotting Aggressive Driving Behaviors

 Posted on December 00,0000 in Aggressive Driving

The number of car accidents caused by aggressive drivers on our roadways is staggering and continues to grow as time goes on. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines aggressive driving as incidents that occur when “an individual commits a combination of moving traffic offenses so as to endanger other person or property.” There are a number of factors that contribute to the rising number of these incidents, from increasingly crowded city and roadways to heightening stress levels of the drivers operating vehicles. While we cannot prevent all aggressive driving related accidents, we can be alert to other drivers around us displaying threatening behavior. The simple practice of defensive driving can go a long way in the prevention of serious injury and fatality on the highway. To protect yourself and others on the road, it is important to watch for the following behaviors:

• Speeding and Tailgating: The NHTSA reports that speeding is one of the most prevalent aggressive driving behaviors on the roads today. Speed is a factor in almost one third of all fatal crashes. If someone is speeding around you or riding your tail, move to the right lane and allow them to pass, or pull to the side of the road if necessary to protect yourself from someone who is driving at an extreme speed. Never hesitate to call 911 to report reckless driving behavior;
• Swerving : Swerving on the roadways can be a sign that someone is driving under the influence, but it can also be an indicator that a driver is exhibiting aggressive behavior. Swerving around other drivers or between lanes to get ahead of another driver is a common threat on the highway and should be avoided at all costs. If you see someone swerving, distance yourself as best as possible from the driver and pull over and call for help if needed; and
• Quick movements: Any sudden, quick movements such as jerking to the left or right to cut someone off or to get around another driver is another form of aggressive behavior. Treat this situation the same way you would treat other aggressive driving behaviors by distancing yourself and contact authorities if the observed behavior turns reckless.

Being involved in an accident caused by an aggressive driver can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. You do not have to face the aftermath of such a collision on your own. An experienced Lake County car accident attorney can explain your rights and help ensure you have the proper representation. Call Salvi & Maher, LLP today at 847-662-3303 to schedule a free consultation.

Source:

http://www.nhtsa.gov/Aggressive