Driving is one of the most high-risk activities most of us engage in in a regular basis. Not only do we need to deal with potential dangers such as bad weather, pedestrians, animals, and natural obstacles like trees, there are also other drivers on the road who may behave in unexpected ways. Drivers who drive aggressively are pose a particularly high risk to other vehicles on the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines aggressive driving as “commit[ting] a combination of moving traffic offenses so as to endanger other persons or property.” Aggressive drivers, by definition, are driving negligently, meaning that they are legally liable for any damage or injury caused by their driving. If you have been involved in a collision with an aggressive driver, you should contact an auto accident attorney in Fayette County as soon as possible to have your case evaluated. The attorneys of Shane Smith Law are available to meet with you about any potential claim you may have at no charge to you.
What is aggressive driving?
Aggressive driving could encompass a wide range of behaviors, so long as they increase the risk of an accident occurring. Some common driving behaviors that are considered aggressive include:
- Going faster than the posted speed limit
- Following too closely
- Erratic or unsafe lane changes
- Failing to signal lane changes
- Ignoring traffic lights
- Ignoring traffic signs
How to safely avoid aggressive drivers
If you do encounter an aggressive driver on the road, the safest course of action is to avoid him or her as much as possible. Engaging an aggressive driver in their behavior will only add to the risk of collision. The Federal Highway Administration recommends the following ways to avoid aggressive drivers:
- Get out of the way and put as much distance as possible between yourself and aggressive drivers
- Try your best to stay relaxed
- Avoid eye contact and do not return any rude gestures
- Do not block the passing lane. If you are driving more slowly than other drivers, move over to the right
- Report aggressive drivers to local authorities
Contact a Fayette County car accident lawyer for a free consultation
If you have been injured by an aggressive driver, you may be able to file a lawsuit in order to recover for damages for medical bills, property damage, pain and suffering, or loss of income. In order to determine whether you have a claim, you should contact an experienced Fayette County auto accident lawyer as soon as possible for a free case evaluation. It is important to not delay when you recognize that you have a claim, as personal injury claims are subject to a strict statute of limitations, meaning that there is a limited window of time in which you may sue. In addition, waiting may result in the loss or destruction of evidence or the fading of eye witness memories. To schedule a free consultation with one of our car accident attorneys, call Shane Smith Law at (980) 246-2656