Aggressive drivers put everyone on the road at risk. If an aggressive driver’s actions lead to an accident, the injuries and other damages can be severe. And although emotions can be high during heavy or busy traffic, aggressive driving is never okay.
Aggressive driving is a leading cause of accidents on Atlanta’s roads. If you’ve been affected, our Atlanta car accident lawyers can help protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
At John Foy & Associates, we help accident victims win what they deserve after a collision they didn’t cause. We bring 20-plus years of experience to the table, and we’re not afraid to stand up to the insurance companies. To learn more during a free consultation, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online. With a formidable reputation as ‘The Strong Arm’ of Georgia, John Foy & Associates is committed to delivering justice. Our Atlanta personal injury lawyers bring the full weight of their expertise to bear on every case we handle, ensuring our clients have the best possible representation.
Aggressive Driving and Road Rage
Aggressive driving is dangerous for many reasons, and it can escalate quickly. An aggressive driver is often frustrated or impatient with road conditions. They will take out their emotions on other drivers, which can lead to severe accidents.
Here are some examples of aggressive driving behaviors.
Speeding
Speeding can include:
- Going above the posted speed limit, or
- Driving too fast for conditions.
Speed limits vary by location. For example, the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA) §40-6-181 covers the maximum speed limits for Georgia. Drivers should also adjust their speed for less safe weather or road conditions.
Speeding increases the risk of serious accidents. A speeding driver doesn’t have much time to respond to hazards. They can also make mistakes with enormous consequences.
Ignoring Traffic Signals
Aggressive drivers often run red lights or ignore other traffic signals. This is dangerous because traffic signs and signals help keep everyone safe. For example, when someone runs a light, they can easily cause a collision.
Cutting Off Other Drivers
Aggressive drivers might weave in and out of traffic, cutting off other motorists. These drivers ignore others’ space to save their own time. Other times, they cut others off out of frustration or recklessness.
Quick lane changes can make it impossible for other drivers to respond. An accident can occur before the other driver knows what’s happening.
Stopping Aggressively
Aggressive driving can include stopping and going abruptly. The driver might even use this as a way to “punish” other drivers as they try to pass. This behavior can easily cause a collision.
Blocking Other Drivers
A motorist might block others from passing or moving into a lane. By stopping other drivers from getting into their lane, the aggressive driver has more control. They might save themselves time while putting everyone else at risk.
Tailgating
Tailgating means following another car too closely. According to OCGA §40-6-49, no one should follow another vehicle “more closely than is reasonable and prudent.” Drivers should be mindful of traffic conditions and other vehicle speeds.
Aggressive drivers don’t have regard for those around them. Unfortunately, tailgating is a common sign of an aggressive driver. Rear-end accidents often result from tailgating drivers.
Road Rage
If aggressive driving escalates, it can turn into road rage. Road rage means a driver is using their vehicle as a weapon. They often intend to cause injuries or harm in their actions.
Drivers should be careful to watch for signs of road rage, which can include:
- Using the horn excessively
- Driving very aggressively
- Stopping suddenly in front of other drivers
- Yelling at other drivers
- Inappropriate hand gestures
- Brandishing a weapon
Aggressive driving can quickly turn into road rage. If an aggressive driver causes your accident, they should be held responsible no matter what. Talk to a lawyer today about getting the compensation you deserve.
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Aggressive Driving Penalties
The penalties for aggressive driving vary by area. In Georgia, according to OCGA §40-6-397, aggressive driving is a misdemeanor of a “high and aggravated nature.” If the aggressive driver causes severe injuries or death, the penalties can be worse.
If you were the victim of an aggressive driving accident, you have rights. You can seek compensation from the driver through a personal injury claim or lawsuit. John Foy & Associates can discuss your options and how we can help.
To schedule a free consultation, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
Aggressive Driving Accident Injuries
The injuries from aggressive driving accidents can be serious. Victims can include other drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and more. We have seen wounds like:
- Internal organ damage
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Amputations
- Neck and back injuries
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Severe burns
After your accident, see a doctor immediately. If you need immediate help, call 9-1-1 for an ambulance. Don’t wait to have a doctor check you for all injuries.
Insurance Companies Rarely Offer What You Deserve
After the accident, you can usually file a claim with the driver’s insurance company. In fault states like Georgia, a driver’s insurance should pay for their actions. However, insurers rarely make it that easy.
The company will look for ways to reduce what they pay. Common tactics include:
- Blaming you for the accident
- Offering you a very low settlement
- Questioning the severity of your injuries
- Saying your injuries are from something other than the accident
- Using something you’ve said against you
An aggressive driving accident lawyer can protect your rights. Your attorney will handle the insurance company for you. If the insurer tries to offer you too little, your lawyer will be ready to negotiate.
Most accident claims resolve with a settlement. But sometimes, insurance companies will refuse to settle. If you need to take the driver to court, your lawyer will be there at each step.
Contact an Aggressive Driving Accident Lawyer Today
Aggressive driving accidents are overwhelming. After the crash, you might not know where to turn first. You might also worry about the cost of hiring a lawyer—but there’s good news.
At John Foy & Associates, we work on a contingency fee with our clients. That means:
- There is no charge unless we win you money.
- We don’t get paid unless you do.
- Our fee is only a percentage of what we win for you.
- There are no upfront costs.
Plus, the consultation is 100% free. We’ll go over the details of your accident and how we can help.
To get your free consultation today, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online.
(404) 400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
