Road rage and aggressive driving are hidden dangers on Texas roads that can lead to severe accidents and life-changing injuries. Understanding your rights and how an attorney can help is crucial if you’ve been a victim.
Our road rage accident lawyers at Patterson Law Group have decades of combined experience helping victims protect their rights after accidents here in Texas. We are available to help you.
How Common Are Road Rage Accidents in Texas?
In 2022, Texas experienced over 1,600 crashes statewide attributed to road rage. Among these incidents, seven were fatal, resulting in the loss of life, while an additional 39 crashes led to suspected serious injuries.
This data underscores the significant impact of road rage on road safety and highlights the serious consequences that can arise from aggressive driving behaviors.
Understanding Road Rage and Aggressive Driving
Road rage and aggressive driving are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings that are important to understand for the safety of all road users. Road rage refers to extreme anger that can lead to dangerous driving behaviors, such as:
Tailgating
Tailgating is one of the most common and dangerous forms of aggressive driving. It involves following another vehicle too closely, creating a high risk of rear-end collisions. This practice increases the chance of an accident and significantly raises the severity of injuries sustained in these collisions.
In Texas, tailgating is illegal and can result in hefty fines. It endangers not only the tailgating driver but also the vehicle being followed and others around it. Drivers should always maintain a safe following distance to avoid potential accidents.
Verbal and Physical Confrontations
Verbal and physical confrontations on the road often escalate from minor disagreements, such as a driver cutting another off or a simple mistake, into dangerous situations.
These confrontations can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities, as the involved parties may lose focus on driving while engaging in a heated argument. Staying calm and avoiding confrontation is essential, as maintaining a level head can prevent situations from spiraling out of control.
On the other hand, aggressive driving includes a broader range of reckless behaviors, including:
Excessive Speeding
Speeding is another typical example of aggressive driving. When drivers exceed speed limits, they increase the likelihood of accidents and the severity of injuries that may occur in these incidents. Higher speeds reduce the amount of time a driver has to react to sudden changes in traffic or road conditions, making it crucial to adhere to speed limits for the safety of everyone on the road.
Aggressive Lane Changes
Frequent and aggressive lane changes without signaling can confuse other drivers and lead to accidents. This behavior is a hallmark of aggressive driving and contributes to the chaotic atmosphere on the roads.
Turn signals and checking blind spots are vital practices that can help prevent misunderstandings with other drivers and maintain a safer driving environment.
While both road rage and aggressive driving can lead to accidents, road rage is generally characterized by a higher degree of severity and is more emotionally driven. These and other acts of aggression can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles, resulting in crashes that can have devastating consequences for all involved.
After an accident, victims must understand their legal rights and options for seeking compensation, as dealing with the aftermath of a road rage accident can be extremely challenging, costly, and overwhelming.
Legal Aspects of Road Rage and Aggressive Driving
In Texas, road rage is often classified under aggressive driving but with an added emotional component. The law takes these behaviors seriously, and specific legal definitions and classifications exist to address them.
Potential Criminal Charges
Road rage and aggressive driving can lead to criminal charges. Depending on the severity, these charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies. For instance, causing severe injury or death due to road rage can result in significant jail time and hefty fines.
Civil Liability
Victims of road rage and aggressive driving accidents can seek damages through civil lawsuits. Civil liability allows victims to claim compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Common Injuries from Aggressive Driving Accidents
Aggressive driving accidents can result in serious injuries for those involved. Common injuries reported in these accidents include:
Whiplash: Whiplash is a common injury resulting from rear-end collisions, often caused by tailgating. This injury can lead to long-term neck pain and disability.
Broken Bones: Aggressive driving accidents can result in broken bones, which may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Traumatic Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are severe and can have long-lasting effects on a victim’s quality of life. These injuries often result from high-speed collisions.
Internal Injuries: Internal injuries are not always immediately apparent but can be life-threatening. Prompt medical attention is crucial for diagnosing and treating these injuries.
Injuries from aggressive driving accidents often require long-term care and rehabilitation. For this reason, victims need to take legal action and seek compensation from the responsible party.
Damages You Can Recover by Filing a Personal Injury Claim
After being injured in a road rage accident, you can recover compensation for your losses, expenses, and other damages. This can include:
Medical costs
Lost wages and lost earnings
Pain and suffering
Loss of enjoyment of life
Loss of consortium
Vehicle repair costs
A financial recovery after a road rage accident in Texas can help alleviate some of the stress and financial burdens victims and their families face.
WHEN BAD INJURIES HAPPEN TO GOOD PEOPLE
Millions Recovered for Texas Injury Victims. Talk to an Attorney Today for FREE. No Fee Unless We Win Your Case
Our Texas road rage accident lawyers at Patterson Law Group are here to help you every step of the way. From investigating the accident to representing you in court, we offer comprehensive legal services to ensure you get the justice you deserve, including:
Investigation of the Accident
We conduct thorough investigations to gather all relevant evidence surrounding the incident. This process includes witness statements, traffic camera footage, accident reconstruction reports, and police records. We work to build a robust case that effectively supports your claim and highlights any negligence involved.
Collection of Evidence
Evidence is crucial in establishing fault and securing the compensation you deserve. We collect and organize all necessary evidence, including accident scene photographs, medical records, and expert testimonies. This comprehensive approach ensures we strengthen your case and present a compelling argument to the parties involved.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, employing various tactics to protect their profits. Our experienced car accident lawyers are well-versed in these strategies and handle negotiations on your behalf. We strive to secure fair compensation for you that accurately represents the impact of the accident on your life.
Representation in Court
If a settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, we are fully prepared to represent you in court. Our lawyers have the experience, knowledge, and courtroom experience necessary to advocate effectively for your rights. We will work tirelessly to present your case to a judge and jury, fighting for the justice and financial recovery you deserve.
Benefits of Hiring a Road Rage Accident Lawyer
Hiring a lawyer can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome. Our Texas aggressive driving accident lawyers have the experience and knowledge to handle complex cases and ensure you get the justice you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aggressive Driving Accidents
Here are answers to some of the most common questions from victims of aggressive driver accidents in Texas.
What should I do immediately after an aggressive driving accident?
First, ensure everyone’s safety and call 911 to report the accident. If needed, seek medical attention and exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Document the scene by taking photos and collecting witness statements. Report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible.
How can I prove that the other driver was driving aggressively?
Gather evidence, such as the police report, which may include details of the aggressive behavior. Obtain witness statements and look for any available traffic camera footage. Document the accident scene and damages thoroughly. Your attorney can help collect and present evidence to support your claim.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit for damages from an aggressive driving accident?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit, including those arising from aggressive driving accidents, is generally two years from the accident date.
This timeframe applies to most claims for personal injury or property damage damages.
Filing your lawsuit within this period is crucial to preserving your right to seek compensation. It is recommended that you consult with a personal injury attorney for specific legal advice and to ensure that all deadlines are met.
Contact Our Law Firm Today
Road rage and aggressive driving are serious issues that can have devastating consequences. Understanding your rights and seeking legal help can significantly impact your recovery and future well-being.
If you’ve been a victim of road rage or aggressive driving in Texas, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced aggressive driving accident lawyers at Patterson Law Group. We’re here to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact our law firm for a consultation today.
