At some point, you’ve probably been on the receiving end of an aggressive driver in Georgia—especially if you’ve driven on I-285. Below are some common examples of aggressive driving seen around Cobb County and the Atlanta metro area:
- Tailgating
- Switching lanes quickly (i.e., weaving through traffic)
- Cutting a car off
- Failing to use turn signals
- Driving in a turn-only lane or on the shoulder to pass other drivers
- Speeding
- Braking quickly
- Failing to stop at stop signs, intersections, and traffic lights
- Failing to yield
In Georgia, aggressive driving is considered negligence because the driver acted in an unreasonable manner. For example, drivers know they need to abide by traffic laws, so anyone who disobeys them is acting negligently. Neglecting to obey traffic laws can result in the injury to another person or property damage of another automobile. In fact, half of all traffic fatalities are the result of aggressive driving, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.
When Does Aggressive Driving Become Road Rage?
Road rage occurs when a driver intentionally engages in aggressive driving. Such acts are directed at another person, whether it’s the driver of another vehicle, a motorcyclist, a bicyclist, or a pedestrian. Below are some common examples of actions that can escalate to road rage:
- Obscene gestures
- Excessive or continuous honking
- Running another individual off the road
- Ramming a car into another car
- Physical assault of a person or his/her property
- Following someone
- Waving, pointing, threatening with, or using a gun
How Can You Avoid Road Rage?
Even though road rage is the result of another person’s actions, you can still take steps to help prevent these outbursts. Always strive to be a cautious and compassionate driver by:
- Leaving early for your destination, so if you get stuck in traffic, you don’t begin driving aggressively
- Letting others merge in front of you when possible
- Thanking other drivers with a wave of the hand when they let you merge
- Obeying traffic signs, lights, and laws
How Should You Handle Road Rage?
If a driver follows you after exhibiting aggressive behaviors, call 911 immediately and drive to a well-lit public place or a police/fire station.
Unfortunately, some road rage incidents lead to unavoidable accidents. If you get into one, treat the incident just like any other car accident or bicycle wreck.
- Call 911;
- Take pictures of the scene, the cars, and any injuries;
- Exchange information with the other driver;
- Check to see if anyone who witnessed the accident stopped to help. Get that person’s contact information;
- Call your insurance company;
- Seek medical treatment if necessary;
- Keep a journal of your injuries, property damage, and bills relating to the accident;
- Contact an attorney.
If an aggressive driver injured you or a loved one, call attorney Joel Williams at 833-LEGALGA today for a free consultation.
