For many, driving is a routine part of their daily life, whether they are commuting to work in the morning or running errands. As such, you may see a concerning amount of unsafe behavior on the roads, whether it’s texting drivers or merging across multiple lanes of traffic, it can be frustrating. However, many are able to move on quickly from this agitation. Others, unfortunately, are unable to do so. As such, you’ll find that some drivers fall into a road rage, which can often lead to a collision. If you have been the victim of a raging driver in Texas, the following blog explores what you should do to navigate these difficult times and the importance of working with a San Angelo, Texas auto accident lawyer to help you fight for justice.
What Is Road Rage?
While it’s not uncommon to grow frustrated by those driving dangerously or negligently, some people fall into an all-consuming rage as a result of the actions of others on the road.
Common behaviors of those experiencing road rage include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Yelling
- Cursing
- Making obscene gestures
- Tailgaiting
- Excessive honking or flashing of high beams
- Making unsafe lane changes or using the shoulder
- Brake checking
- Attempting to run the vehicle off the road
- Intentionally hitting another vehicle
Unfortunately, whether intentional or not, road rage can often result in a collision. This is because the driver is no longer focused on driving and adhering to the rules of the road, but their attention has shifted to letting another driver know they are upset or seeking revenge.
What Should I Do Following a Collision?
If you are involved in a collision due to the actions of another driver, it’s imperative to understand the steps to take to protect yourself. Generally, the first thing you should do is call emergency services to report the crash and request medical attention. You should also inform the operator of the circumstances of the collision so the police are prepared when they arrive on the scene.
While you’d typically exchange insurance information with a driver while waiting for the police to arrive on scene, if the other driver is aggressive, you should remain in your vehicle with the doors locked until the police arrive. Once they are on the scene, they can assist you in gathering the other driver’s information.
If you are the victim of a road rage collision in Texas, it is critical to understand the importance of connecting with an experienced attorney. At the Mathis Law Firm, PLLC, we understand how difficult these matters can be to navigate. That is why our team will do everything in our power to help you fight for and recover the compensation you deserve. When you need assistance, do not hesitate to contact our team today.
