Many Atlanta drivers would not be surprised to learn that “road rage” is one of the leading causes of Georgia car accidents. Road rage is defined as aggressive or angry behavior by a driver of an automobile or any other motor vehicle. Road rage behavior may include rude gestures, verbal insults, or making threats as well as deliberately driving in an unsafe or threatening manner. For example, drivers may brake suddenly in front of another car, pull right up on another driver’s bumper or even try to tap the other driver’s bumper. In some cases, drivers may deliberately harm other drivers or pedestrians.
Road rage is especially common during commute hours. Drivers become anxious from dealing with traffic, high speeds, and rude drivers, on top of the pressures of their job, and family life. They may be in a hurry to get to an appointment. Signs of road rage include:
• Tailgating
• Flashing lights
• Obscene gestures
• Passing on the wrong side
• Cutting off another vehicle
• Hemming in another vehicle
• Speeding
• Obstructing another vehicle(s)
• Using some type of weapon, including one’s vehicle
This type of aggressive driving often ends in car accidents.
Road rage can happen to anyone. Here are some tips to prevent it from happening to you:
- When driving, try to focus on getting from one place to another safely. Don’t worry about time.
- Avoid getting drawn into a confrontation. If someone tailgates you, let it go. Don’t try to retaliate.
- Be courteous and kind to other drivers.
- Remember to use your turn signal so other drivers are not be surprised by your driving.
- When changing lanes, do not cut off other drivers and make sure you have plenty of room when you merge onto a highway. If someone cuts you off, slow down and give them room. Don’t respond in the same way.
- Drive at the speed of traffic. If someone wants to pass you, move to the right lane.
- Leave a safe distance between your car and other vehicles. Avoid tailgating.
- Do not make obscene gestures and avoid any visible sign that you may be angry or frustrated. Other drivers may retaliate even if it is not directed at them.
- If a driver is displaying any signs of aggressive driving give them space.
- If you think you are in serious danger from an aggressive driver, use your cell phone to call the police and drive to a heavily populated area. Do not drive home and do not get out of the car until you are safe.
- If you make a mistake, apologize with a smile and a wave of the hand.
Be courteous, be kind and be alert while driving. This will make you a better driver and help you avoid many cases of road rage. However, if you have been injured in an Atlanta car accident that was caused by someone else’s road rage, you have rights. Contact Shane Smith Law to schedule a free legal consultation with an Atlanta car accident attorney. When you call, request our free book, “10 Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Georgia Wreck Case.”