How Should I React to Aggressive Driving in Lake County?

 Posted on April 18,2018 in Driving Safety

Each year, nearly 7 million automobile accidents occur throughout the United States. Of those accidents, well over half involve some form of aggressive driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), aggressive driving can be defined as any form of motor vehicle operation that endangers oneself and others on the road. Common examples of aggressive driving include the following:

• Speeding;
• Tailgating;
• Reckless passing; and
• Overall disregard for traffic guidelines.

While many assume that only a small percentage of drivers engage in aggressive driving behavior, the NHTSA estimates that upwards of 80 percent of all drivers have driven aggressively. Consider the following tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe the next time you encounter an aggressive drivers.

Steps to Take When Encountering Aggressive Drivers on the Road

• Keep Your Distance: If you see a driver electing to engage in overly aggressive behavior, the best policy is to keep as much distance as possible. Aggressive driving behavior, such as speeding and reckless passing, can result in injury and even death. Next time you see an aggressive driver on the road, slow down, change lanes, and attempt to avoid as much roadway interaction as possible.
• Stay Calm: In the event you encounter an aggressive driver, the worst step you can take is to retaliate. Retaliation—i.e. increasing your vehicle’s speed, attempting to pass, tailgating the aggressor, etc.—can endanger yourself, your passengers, and other drivers on the road. If you experience aggressive driving on the road, the best steps you can take are avoiding eye contact, avoiding obscene gestures, and avoiding an alteration in your driving behavior. Next time you encounter an aggressive driver, stay calm and carry on.
• Wear Your Seat belt: While most drivers understand that wearing a seat belt is important in all driving situations, utilizing all protective precautions is increasingly important when aggressive drivers are present. The NHTSA states that aggressive driving behavior increases the likelihood of a motor vehicle collision. Next time you get in your vehicle, ensure that you and all your passengers are wearing their seat belts. It may just save a life.

Getting the Help You Need from a Lake County Car Accident Lawyer

Aggressive drivers continue to bring danger to American roadways, and in dense urban areas such as the greater Chicago area, they are especially problematic. While all responsible drivers attempt to take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of themselves and their loved ones, extraneous concerns such as aggressive drivers continue to cause accidents.

If you or a member of your family are injured in an automobile accident involving aggressive driving behavior, contact our experienced and compassionate team of Waukegan personal injury attorneys. At Salvi & Maher L.L.C., we have decades of experience pursuing legal help for our clients. Contact us online to schedule consultation, or call us today at 847-662-3303.

Sources:

http://www.safeny.ny.gov/media/aggr-bro.htm

https://www.justia.com/injury/car-accidents/car-accidents/aggressive-driving-accidents/