The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports1 that aggressive driving has become a significant issue on roadways throughout the country, and Michigan is no exception. Anyone who regularly drives understands the frustrations that can often accompany trying to get from place to place – seemingly endless construction, heavy traffic, poor road conditions, and simply running late are all issues that are capable of raising one’s ire. Furthermore, human beings are naturally susceptible to daily frustrations that are unrelated to driving, such as those stemming from personal problems or issues at work.
While getting frustrated or upset while driving is one thing, it is another thing to allow your emotions to affect the way in which you drive in a manner that puts others at risk. While there is no legal definition of “aggressive driving,” it generally involves a combination moving violations or aggressive behaviors that put other people or property at risk. In many cases, people who are injured by aggressive drivers can recover for the injuries and other losses they sustain, so it is important for anyone injured by an aggressive driver to talk to an experienced attorney as soon as possible.
It is important to be able to recognize aggressive drivers and avoid them whenever possible. Some of the kinds of driving that often are part of aggressive driving are detailed below.
Speeding
Speeding is a common form of aggressive driving that puts everyone else on the road at risk. Speeders often are unable see other vehicles in time to avoid them and significantly increase the stopping distance of their vehicles. Furthermore, accidents that occur at higher speed often cause significantly more damage than those that occur when vehicles are traveling more slowly.
Following too closely
In many cases, aggressive drivers follow a vehicle extremely closely, either to express their displeasure at the speed at which the lead driver is driving or in an attempt to pass. Following another vehicle too closely can often result in rear-end accidents, which are capable of causing serious injuries.
Obscene gestures
Making obscene gestures at other drivers is not simply offensive, it is also dangerous. When drivers make obscene gestures at others, they generally remove their hands from the wheel and look in the direction of the subject of their gestures, resulting in distracted driving.2 In many cases, these distractions can result in serious accidents.
Threatening behavior
Sometimes, an irate driver will make overt threats towards others, including verbal threats of physical harm or brandishing weapons such as firearms or knives. This type of behavior can be extremely frightening to others and result in criminal liability on the part of the individual making the threats.
Contact a Michigan auto accident lawyer today to schedule a free case evaluation
People that have been injured by aggressive drivers are often able to recover compensation for the economic and noneconomic losses they incur as a result of their accident. As a result, anyone that believes that their accident was the result of aggressive driving or road rage should contact an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. To schedule a consultation with a Michigan car accident attorney, call our office today at 313-438-4357 or send us an email through our online contact form.
References:
1 http://www.nhtsa.gov/Aggressive
2 http://www.distraction.gov/
Thomas L. Stroble
FOUNDER
Mr. Stroble is a highly accomplished graduate of Michigan State University, with degrees in both science and law. He specializes in commercial lawsuits and personal injury cases. Licensed to practice law in Michigan and even the U.S. Supreme Court, he’s a well-qualified legal expert. Besides his career in law, he loves outdoor activities and volunteers as a part-time police officer in Birmingham.
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