Florida Car Accident Lawyer Blog
Aggressive driving can occur at any time and can involve virtually any motorist. When it does occur, road rage and aggressive driving can lead to loss of emotional control, poor decision-making, and erratic driving which can contribute to a car accident in Homestead or any community.
Studies show men are more likely than women to become victims of aggressive driving. Other risk factors include sleep disorders, stress, and poor anger management. No matter what the causes, car accidents caused by aggressive driving are always preventable and all motorists can take steps to control their emotions and to stay safe on the roads.
There many ways you can prevent aggressive driving and road rage when behind the wheel:
- Recognize your risk factors. No one thinks of themselves as hotheaded, but if others tell you that you have a bad temper or that you drive aggressively, you need to listen. You may think your aggression or your driving is perfectly reasonable, but if others are afraid to drive with you it’s important to recognize there may be a problem. Consider when you are most likely to drive when upset. Are you most likely to be affected by stress at work, hunger, arguments with friends, or other issues? Understanding your risk can help you take steps to prevent dangerous driving.
- Check your emotions before you drive. Before hopping in the car, take the time to evaluate how you feel. If you feel angry or upset, consider calming down or waiting for a while before you attempt to drive anywhere.
- Think of aggressive driving the same way you think of drunk driving. Many people today recognize that getting behind the wheel after drinking is a dangerous proposition. However, many people will drive when they are upset or angry without thinking twice about it. Yet, aggressive driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Treat them both equally seriously and you are less likely to drive when upset.
- Get help for unchecked aggression or anger management issues. If you find yourself getting angry often, talk to your doctor or to a therapist. You may be able to get support for depression, anxiety, anger management issues, or any other conditions you have. These are real medical conditions and there are effective treatment options available which can help you control your temper and can help improve your driving and overall life.
- Don’t exacerbate your emotions. Keep in mind that being tired, hungry, or overworked can all contribute to feelings of aggression, anger, and upset. You’re more likely to drive aggressively and to engage in road rage if you are not taking good care of yourself. Take the time to build a strong support group, manage time properly, and get adequate rest.
Even if you are careful never to drive when upset, the same cannot be said for other drivers. Sometimes, you may have to share the road with someone who is driving erratically or seems to be in the throes of road rage. If this is happened to you, stay well away from the aggressive driver and do not make contact or engage with them. Resist the temptation to shout back, gesture, or engage in any action which can seem aggressive. Contact police if you feel your life or the lives of other drivers are in danger.
If you have been injured by an aggressive driver or by a road rage incident, contact Flaxman Law Group for a free, no obligation consultation. Through our offices in Homestead, Hollywood, and Miami, the attorneys at Flaxman Law Group have already helped thousands of personal injury plaintiffs secure the compensation they deserve for their injuries. Let our team support you in understanding whether you have a claim.