February is when drivers are asked to reflect on their driving behavior and the way that they react when other drivers make poor decisions. Think about the last time you were cut off by a speeding motorist and how you responded. Your heart probably started pumping faster and you may have even yelled or made an impolite gesture. The question is, did you respond by driving inappropriately? Aggressive driving is extremely dangerous, and it can result in devastating, high-speed collisions.
According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are over six million car crashes in the United States each year that are caused by road rage. This means that a large number of drivers who get upset on the roadway choose to channel their anger through reckless driving behavior. Make sure that you are not a part of the problem. Find ways to direct your anger in a positive way and find ways to stay calm when behind the wheel.
Of course, you don’t have to be an aggressive driver to be involved in an aggressive driving accident. It is entirely likely that you will encounter a number of hostile and dangerous drivers someday soon while driving in San Diego. Here are a few tips to keep in mind that could protect you and your family from road rage:
- Don’t make eye contact with drivers who are gesturing, yelling or honking their horn at you. Ignore them while staying in your lane at a safe speed.
- Let the aggressive driver pass you as soon as possible. Pull over or simply get out of the way so that he or she can move on.
- Call the police if a driver is behaving dangerously. Have a passenger write down the driver’s license plate and call the police to report them. Do not, however, try to report them while you are driving. That would make you a potentially dangerous distracted driver.
If an angry driver injures you, do not hesitate to research your legal options. Dangerous drivers can be held accountable for the injuries they cause. You may be able to receive support for medical bills, lost wages, suffering and other related damages. Contact an experienced San Diego personal injury lawyer to obtain more information about pursuing your legal rights.
