There are more than 6 million motor vehicle accidents reported in the United States each year. It’s difficult to determine exactly how many of these accidents are caused by road rage or an enraged driver. If you have been injured in a car accident contact an experienced Baton Rouge personal injury lawyer today for a free consultation.
Road rage is often defined as aggressive behavior by the driver of any type of vehicle. Some of these behaviors include rude gestures or verbal insults; other behaviors may include reckless driving, tailgating or failing to allow other motorists to pass, merge or change lanes.
The recent trial of David Leger has brought this subject to the forefront as Leger faces five charges of vehicular homicide for a 2011 crash. Prosecutors claim Leger was driving drunk and was involved in a road-rage fueled chase.
Between 1990 and 1997, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that about 13,000 people had been injured or killed in an accident involving aggressive driving.
Do you know what to do if you’re ever involved in this type of situation?
If a driver gets out of their vehicle and begins to approach you, avoid any verbal contact that could escalate the situation and make it worse. Call 911 and report the problem to the authorities.
If you’re still driving and notice someone tailgating you or driving erratically, do your best to avoid that driver. If you can, take down their license plate number and call the non-emergency line of your local authorities.
Drivers should avoid slowing down or taping on their brakes to “scare” the driver off, aggressive drivers will only think you’re challenging them and this could put you in further danger.
If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident that was caused by a reckless or aggressive driver, the victim may be entitled to compensation for damages. At Simien & Simien, we believe that victims of road rage deserve justice – and we can help you get it.
