How Angry, Aggressive Drivers Increase Clearwater Auto Accident Risks

Incidents of road rage are frightening and unfortunately common throughout Pinellas County. What begins as frustration in traffic can quickly escalate into tailgating, cutting drivers off, and even physical confrontations.

When a crash happens, and an aggressive driver is to blame, you have the right to hold them accountable. Our experienced Clearwater auto accident attorney explains how Florida law applies in these cases and how to get the compensation you deserve.

What Florida Law Says About Aggressive Driving and Road Rage

Under Section 316.1923 of the Florida Statutes, aggressive driving occurs when a motorist commits two or more dangerous acts simultaneously or in succession. Those acts include:

• Exceeding the posted speed limit.
• Improperly changing lanes.
• Following another vehicle too closely.
• Failing to yield the right of way.
• Improper passing or violating traffic control devices.

Aggressive driving and incidents of road rage pose serious threats to motorists in Florida and across the country. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), 96 percent of all motorists admit to engaging in angry, aggressive behavior at least once over the prior year, and 11 percent admitted to violent actions such as intentionally bumping another car or confronting another driver.

When this type of behavior occurs on US-19, I-275, or other busy Pinellas County roads, it increases the risks of a major collision, and the consequences for nearby motorists can be severe.

Your Right to Compensation After a Pinellas County Road Rage Accident

Car accidents in Pinellas County caused by aggressive driving and road rage can result in more serious injuries than standard collisions. That’s because the actions leading up to it are often intentionally reckless, rather than simply careless. That distinction matters.

Under Section 768.72 of the Florida Statutes, in addition to economic damages, which cover actual losses, and non-economic damages for pain and suffering, victims have the right to seek punitive damages. As the name implies, this punishes drivers for engaging in intentional misconduct or gross negligence. To protect your rights in a claim, take these steps:

• Call 911, wait at the scene for the police, and make sure they complete an accident report.
• Get the other driver’s contact, insurance, and vehicle information, as well as info from other motorists involved and any witnesses to the crash.
• Take photos or videos to document the crash site, the vehicles involved, and your injuries, if possible.
• Seek immediate medical care, avoid downplaying your injuries, and follow all of their instructions.

While insurance can help cover your losses, filing a lawsuit against the driver may be the best way to get the maximum compensation you deserve.

Request a Consultation Today With Our Experienced Clearwater Auto Accident Attorney

Aggressive driving and road rage pose serious risks on roads throughout Pinellas County. If injured in this type of crash, contact The Reep Law Firm.

Our experienced Clearwater auto accident attorney protects your rights and fights for the maximum compensation. Take the first step towards recovery and request a consultation today.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.1923.html

aaafoundation.org/research/aggressive-driving-and-road-rage-2/

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0768/Sections/0768.72.html