What is Road Rage?

The simplified road rage meaning can be described as driving aggressively or out of frustration in a way that impacts other drivers on the road. In a recent survey, almost half (41%) of drivers said they witnessed a road rage incident within the last year.

Road rage can encompass a wide range of driving behaviors that occur as a result of one driver’s untamed negative emotions. In most circumstances, road rage is harmless, but this type of behavior can rise to the level of negligence that causes a crash. Learn more about what’s road rage is exactly and how it contributes to accidents below.

Road Rage Definition

When it comes to the law, the basic definition of road rage is dangerous or reckless driving behaviors committed as a result of negative emotions like anger, frustration, or panic. Road rage is defined as taking out those unhealthy emotions on another motorist, pedestrian, or cyclist on the road.

Common Causes of Road Rage

Aggressive driving behaviors are typically the result of unmanaged emotions of one driver. Sometimes, the road rage stems from a legitimate event that happened and resulted in escalating driving tensions, but more often than not, the driver’s rage is unprovoked. Here are a few of the most common causes of road rage behaviors:

• One driver making a mistake that angers another driver.
• One driver perceiving the other driver’s actions as adversely impacting them.
• People with Cluster B and C personality disorders.
• Emotional stress stemming from external factors.
• Alcohol or substance misuse.
• Distracted driving.
• One driver being rushed for time.
• One person’s complete disregard for the law.

So, what does road rage mean if you made an error that added to the escalating situation? Even if you believe your actions contributed to another person’s rage, remember that it is that person’s responsibility to manage their emotions.

Types of Road Rage Incidents

Road rage can manifest in many ways, from small encounters that you can easily brush off to devastating car collisions. Some common road rage examples include:

• shouting, yelling;
• tailgating;
• speeding;
• aggressively driving;
• switching back and forth between lanes for no reason;
• cutting off other drivers;
• running red lights or disregarding the law;
• rudely gesturing to other drivers;
• flashing headlights, shining brights at other cars on purpose;
• driving slowly intentionally;
• hitting another driver or pedestrian;
• attempting to engage in a physical confrontation.

If you think rage could’ve played a role in your accident, then be sure to describe the road rage to the police officer so they record that in their official police report. This evidence might become invaluable later if you need to pursue a compensation claim.

Consequences of Road Rage

Road rage incidents can cause destruction if an accident happens as a result. In a road rage incident aftermath, you need to be sure to protect your legal rights and interests by filing a report about the crash and getting timely treatment for your injuries.

There are legal consequences of road rage for perpetrators, including being held responsible for your losses if you get hurt, suffer property damage, or endure emotional distress after the crash.

Legal Rights for Road Rage Victims

Seeking compensation involves filing a legal claim against the responsible party. You will typically have the right to seek damages in the form of property loss, medical costs, pain and suffering, and more depending on the severity of your losses. It will be up to you to compile the right evidence, file your case, and negotiate a good settlement, so it might be the best idea to consider talking to a lawyer.

Consult with a Legal Expert on Your Road Rage Case

If you get into an accident involving a road rage incident, then you might wonder if there are ways of holding drivers accountable for their actions. Under the law, road rage behaviors are considered negligent driving. Negligent drivers are legally responsible for the financial fallout of any accidents they cause.

That said, it is possible to file personal injury and emotional distress claims against a driver who caused harm with their road rage driving.

To learn more about your legal options and rights, it’s a good idea to schedule a car accident lawyer consultation with an attorney. You’ll discuss the details of your accident and the severity of your injuries. From there, your lawyer will advise you on whether you have the basis to seek out a claim or not.

Glossary References

https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/road-rage

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2922361/

https://www.forbes.com/advisor/car-insurance/state-rankings-confrontational-drivers/