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Aggressive Driving Behaviors Put You at Risk
Car accidents are complex events, often involving multiple factors. Unfortunately, in too many of these cases, it is the reckless and aggressive driving behaviors of others that are ultimately to blame. Being impatient or in a hurry and acting out toward other drivers increases the risk of serious accidents and injuries for everyone on the road.
Common Types of Aggressive Driving Behaviors
According to crash facts from the Illinois Department of Transportation (DOT), more than 300,000 car accidents happen in our state each year, with more than 14,000 occurring in San Francisco alone. These prove serious and potentially life threatening for tens of thousands of drivers and passengers, and aggressive driving is often the underlying cause. Common types of aggressive driving behaviors include:Â
- Speeding;
- Going too fast for traffic or weather conditions;
- Tailgating, or following other drivers too closely;
- Improper passing;
- Weaving in and out of lanes;
- Cutting others off in traffic;
- Failure to yield;
- Running stop signs and signals at intersections.Â
Protecting Yourself When on the Road
While you cannot control the behavior of other drivers, there are steps you can take to protect yourself against aggressive driving accidents. The American Automobile Association (AAA) advises allowing yourself plenty of time to get where you intend to go. If you are running late, let the other person know and keep it in perspective. Better to be a little late or even miss an appointment than to end up causing a traffic collision.Â
Be respectful of other drivers on the road, follow traffic and signs and signals, and avoid using your car horn unless absolutely necessary. Avoid making gestures or taking any hostile actions against other motorists, which can cause situations to quickly escalate. If you encounter an aggressive driver, the AAA recommends the following:
- Avoid engaging with the other driver and keep your eyes on the road.Â
- Pull into the right lane if possible, to allow someone tailgating you to pass.Â
- Double check to ensure no other cars are coming at you, even if you have the right of way.Â
- If someone begins following you or acting in other ways that could be considered dangerous, pull over to a public place and notify law enforcement.Â
Our San Francisco Car Accident Attorneys are Here to Help
When you or your loved ones suffer injuries as the result of a car crash or collision, the Law Office of Scott Righthand provides caring, trusted legal guidance to help you recover. Reach out and contact our San Francisco car accident attorneys to request a consultation to discuss your case and how we may be able to help you get the compensation you deserve. Â
