Preventing Road Rage Accidents
I’m Ed Smith, a Modesto car accident lawyer. The holiday season is upon us, which means there will be more drivers on the road. From travelers making their way to a family holiday function to truck drivers pressured to deliver their loads on time, we can all expect road rage to rise, especially along California’s Highway 99. The dangers of road rage are extensive and far-ranging, which creates a safety hazard for those traveling on the roadway. Following the rules of the road and exercising safety precautions is critical in protecting yourself against a road rage accident.
What is Road Rage?
Road rage is a type of aggressive behavior that is often expressed in the forms of tailgating or speeding. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 9,557 parties passed away in accidents involving excessive speed in 2015 alone. Speeding accounted for 27 percent of all fatal traffic collisions that same year. The consequences of speeding are extensive and hazardous, resulting in:
- An increased risk of loss of vehicle control
- Decreased effectiveness of protection equipment
- Increased vehicle fuel cost and consumption
- Psychological and economical implications following a speed-related accident
Dealing with Road Rage Drivers
If another vehicle is tailgating you, try switching lanes to allow the vehicle to pass by. Monitor and adjust your driving if you have done something to upset another driver. Use your horn in emergency situations only as drivers tend to become irate by excessive honking. Always try to defuse a road rage situation by gesturing an apology through a wave or smile. Attempt to allow plenty of room for angry drivers and avoid eye contact with them to avoid a preventable incident.
How to Avoid Road Rage
The first step of how to avoid road rage as a driver is to give yourself extra time while driving. Drivers tend to experience anxiety and frustration if they are late for school, work or an appointment. Such behaviors can result in road rage expressed through a variety of forms. Be sure to maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the car in front of you. Use your turn signals to indicate lane changes to other motorists on the road. Apply your brakes appropriately and never “brake check” a tailgating vehicle behind you as this may result in an automobile accident. Always remember to never offend another driver, exercise tolerance and forgiveness and never escalate a road rage situation.
Related Content by Edward A Smith:
- Modesto Accident Statistics
- Modesto Pedestrian Accident Statistics 2016
- Stanislaus County Accident Statistics 2016
Modesto Car Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Modesto car accident lawyer. The consequences of a road rage accident oftentimes result in traumatic or even fatal injuries. If you or a member in your family has been injured in a car, motorcycle or truck accident, please call me at (209) 227-1931 for free, friendly advice. You may also contact me toll-free at (800) 404-5400.
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