South Florida traffic can sometimes lead to frustration, which can manifest as road rage—a dangerous situation that poses risks to drivers and to passengers, pedestrians, and other road users. Being in a car accident or being assaulted by an enraged driver can be terrifying, but in this situation you may have legal recourse.
If you’ve been injured by an aggressive driver, talk to a Florida car accident claims attorney at the Miami, Homestead, and Hollywood offices of Flaxman Law Group. Your first consultation with our family law firm and father-son attorney team is always free and comes with no obligation so there is no risk in finding out more about your potential case.
Understanding Road Rage
Road rage refers is any aggressive behavior exhibited by drivers in response to traffic-related stressors. This can include:
- Aggressive tailgating
- Swearing and gesturing
- Verbal confrontations
- Intentionally causing collisions
- Swerving around cars, changing lanes fast, and driving aggressively
- Entering another car’s lane
Speeding
Common causes of road rage in Florida can include:
- Traffic congestion. Congested roads in South Florida can test even the most patient driver, leading to heightened stress levels and aggressive behaviors.
- Impatience. Impatience to reach a destination can contribute to aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating and weaving in and out of traffic.
- Miscommunication. Drivers may interpret actions such as failing to yield as disrespectful, triggering aggressive responses.
- Anonymity. Drivers can sometimes feel anonymous in a car, which can embolden them to act aggressively. These drivers may assume they won’t have to be in a direct confrontation or face any consequences.
- Personal stressors. Some motorists get behind the wheel already upset about something else in their lives, and in this situation any minor issue on the road can cause them to lose control.
What To Do If You’re Injured in a Road Rage Incident in South Florida
Road rage incidents can escalate fast, leading to physical altercations, property damage, and even serious injuries or fatalities. If you’re on the road and a driver starts acting aggressive, your best option is to stay out of their way and report them to authorities. Never engage. Doing so can cause the situation to spin out of control. It can also result in legal consequences, including criminal charges, fines, and license suspension.
If you’re injured by an aggressive driver, prioritize your safety. Avoid engaging, maintain a safe distance, and report the incident to law enforcement. As soon as possible, contact a Florida car accident claims lawyer. You can do so for free and with no obligation by contacting Flaxman Law Group at any time. You may have the right to seek legal recourse and seek compensation for medical expenses, property damage, pain and suffering, and other losses, and you’ll want to protect these rights immediately. While compensation will not remove the terror of a road rage incident, it can help you get counseling and other supports while you work to heal.
Road rage is a serious issue that can have dire consequences. If you’ve been injured in a road rage incident, call Flaxman Law Group at 866-352-9626 to speak to a Florida car accident claims attorney. Our compassionate family firm can help you understand whether you have a claim.