Florida Car Accident Lawyer Blog
Road rage incidents in Hollywood in Florida can lead to serious accidents. Often caused by drivers who lose their temper and drive aggressively, these incidents can escalate quickly and can even result in fatalities.
Drivers in the grip of road rage are distracted and may make aggressive and unadvisable driving choices. They may speed, ignore traffic rules, and in some cases even use their car as a weapon. Almost every driver can lose their temper at some point, but there are a few ways to prevent upset from turning into a dangerous event:
1) Prepare to have the most relaxing driving experience possible.
You are less likely to get angry if you:
- Give yourself enough time to get to your destination
- Get enough sleep, water, and food to be comfortable
- Take care of your health
- Play relaxing music as you drive
- Set up the interior of your car to be the right temperature and to be as comfortable as possible
If there are any difficult or stressful situations in your life, work to resolve them. Driving when you are worried or angry about anything else can lead to a road rage incident. In fact, if you find you are fuming when you get behind the wheel or are distracted by an upsetting situation, avoid driving. You may find yourself in a distracted driving incident or road rage situation. Instead, take a few deep breaths and try to relax first. If you continue to mull over the unpleasant situation, don’t drive. Take an alternative method of transportation.
2) Work to diffuse potentially dangerous situations.
Drive courteously and defensively. Don’t tailgate or cut other drivers off and be sure to use your signal lights so other motorists know what to expect. If you do make a mistake, make an “I’m sorry” gesture rather than engaging. Avoid using your horn or blocking or slowing down traffic.
If you notice someone who is driving aggressively, stay out of their way. If they are tailgating, get out of the way and let them pass. If someone is trying to engage with you by following you in their car or by getting out of their car to approach you, roll up your windows and lock your doors and get out of the situation. Call police if it is safe to do so or drive to a safe area or a police station.
3) Talk to a professional if you’re angry often.
If you have a hard time avoiding stress and anger, consider talking to a doctor or counselor. You may find that a few sessions for anger management or even some anti-anxiety medication can give you a new lease on life. Getting treatment for anger issues can make you safer on the roads and can improve many other areas of your life, too.
If you have been injured by an aggressive driver or have been injured in a car crash caused by a road rage incident, contact Flaxman Law Group for a free, no obligation consultation. You can reach our Hollywood, Homestead, or Miami offices online or by calling 1-866-352-9626 (1-866-FLAXMAN). You can always reach a live person if you need immediate assistance.