Road Rage Can Have Deadly Consequences

Most drivers strive to drive safely and be courteous to others on the road. However, no one is perfect, and you have probably accidentally cut someone off or done something to upset another driver. Most drivers know to take these instances in stride and not take it personally, but some drivers exhibit extreme and malicious reactions that are classified as road rage.

Road rage can cause serious auto accidents, which can lead to catastrophic injuries and fatalities. If you or a loved one has been a victim of a driver with road rage, call Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers to speak with one of our experienced auto accident lawyers to find out your options for recovering damages and holding the dangerous driver accountable.

What is the Difference between Road Rage and Aggressive Driving?

Aggressive driving constitutes a traffic infraction, while road rage may be considered a criminal act. Both road rage and aggressive driving involve reckless and dangerous driving and the violation of traffic laws. The difference between the two lies in the driver’s intent. Drivers with road rage act aggressively in order to retaliate against another driver, whereas aggressive drivers may violate a traffic law, such as exceeding the speed limit, without malice toward a particular driver.

What are Some Examples of Road Rage?

A driver with road rage will fixate on a specific car or driver. He or she may take the following actions in order to “punish” the other driver for a perceived wrong:

• Speeding around a slower vehicle in order to cut the driver off
• Intentionally ramming into another vehicle
• Attempting to run a vehicle off the road
• Braking suddenly for no reason
• Getting out of his or her vehicle in order to threaten or harm another driver

What to do if You are Targeted by a Driver with Road Rage

Unfortunately, even an honest mistake can set off a driver with road rage. If you find yourself in a position where another driver is acting erratically, and you do not feel safe, the Official Ministry of Transportation (MTO) advises the following:

• Lock your doors, and do not exit your vehicle.
• Call the police.
• Attract attention by flashing your lights and using your horn.
• Do not drive home if you are being followed. Instead, drive to a busy public place or law enforcement station.

What to do if You are a Victim of Road Rage

If you’ve been injured as a result of road rage or aggressive driving, call the team at Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers to find out the best course of action in your case. A personal injury lawsuit against a driver who caused your injuries can help you recover compensation for:

• Medical treatment and medications
• Rehabilitation and at-home care, if needed
• Emotional trauma
• Pain and suffering

If a loved one was killed in a fatal crash caused by a malicious driver, you may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit. We understand that losing a loved one is a traumatic experience and you may not feel up to talking with a lawyer, but it is important to take action to hold the responsible party accountable. By filing a lawsuit, you are doing your part to let others know that violent acts on the road are unacceptable and have consequences.

Schedule Your Free Auto Accident Consultation

If you’ve been injured in a car accident caused by another driver’s road rage, please call Findlay Personal Injury Lawyers at 905-522-9799 today for your free auto accident consultation. We will listen to your case and help determine your best options for pursuing justice. We serve clients in Hamilton, Brantford, Stoney Creek, Niagara Falls, and other nearby areas of Ontario.