Do I Have a Personal Injury Claim if I Was a Victim of a Road Rage Accident?

 Posted on June 17, 2021 in Car Accidents

For many Americans, driving is a daily task that is pretty much unavoidable. Many people in the United States live in areas that do not have very good public transportation systems, forcing them to spend more time commuting in their own vehicles. Driving can be a frustrating task, but most people can manage the stresses that come with it. However, some people may become so angry and frustrated that they lash out, usually toward other drivers on the road. In some cases, road rage can be the cause of a car accident that can leave other drivers with serious injuries. Fortunately, many victims of road rage are able to file a personal injury claim to help recoup some of the losses experienced as a result.

What Is Road Rage?

In general, road rage is defined as angry or aggressive behaviors exhibited by drivers when they are behind the wheel of a vehicle. Even though it may sound extreme, road rage is not an uncommon occurrence. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), one survey found that 80 percent of drivers had exhibited aggressive or aggravated driving behaviors at least once in the year prior. Road rage can include a range of behavior, such as:

• Tailgating or following other drivers too closely
• Yelling at other drivers
• Honking or making angry gestures toward other drivers
• Blocking other people from changing lanes
• Cutting off another driver in traffic
• Intentionally and purposefully ramming your vehicle into another car
• Getting out of your vehicle to confront another driver

Proving Road Rage

Just like in any other case, you must be able to prove that the other driver was negligent when they were in the accident. Evidence for road rage accidents may include things such as:

• Witness statements and testimony: Some of the most valuable evidence in a case involving road rage can be the people who witnessed the event. In some cases, having a witness recall what happened at the scene can help confirm your case.
• Police reports: Another important piece of evidence in cases involving road rage is the police report. If the other driver was breaking any laws when they got into the accident, the police report should note that. In many cases, drivers who engage in road rage drive recklessly and without regard for others on the road.

Contact Our Bloomingdale, IL Car Accident Injury Lawyer Today

Driving can feel like a chore for some people but for others, it can be downright infuriating. If you have been in a car accident at the hands of a driver experiencing road rage, you may be able to claim compensation for any injuries sustained during that accident. At the Law Offices of David W. Clark, P.C., we will work tirelessly to ensure that your best interests are protected throughout the process to help you get the most amount of compensation possible. To schedule a free consultation with one of our DuPage County car accident injury attorneys, call our office today at 630-665-5678.

Sources:

https://www.geico.com/living/driving/auto/car-safety-insurance/7-ways-to-avoid-road-rage/

https://www.topdriver.com/education-blog/causes-of-road-rage/

https://newsroom.aaa.com/2016/07/nearly-80-percent-of-drivers-express-significant-anger-aggression-or-road-rage/