Aggressive driving can get you a fine of $200 in the state of Texas. But that’s not the only consequence of getting mad behind the wheel. Aggressive drivers are much more likely to cause accidents. If you’ve ever seen or had a confrontation with an aggressive driver, you know how frustrations can run high on the roadways and how these frustrations can translate into risky driving behaviors.
The Texas Department of Transportation (DOT) has some tips for avoiding car accidents caused by aggressive drivers. According to the agency’s website:
Avoid Becoming an Aggressive Driver
- Keep your emotions in check. Don’t take your frustrations out on other drivers.
- Plan ahead and allow enough time for delays.
- Focus on your own driving. Yelling, pounding on the steering wheel and honking your horn won’t make traffic move any faster.
How to Avoid Danger
First, be a cautious, considerate driver. Avoid creating a situation that may provoke another motorist.
- Don’t tailgate or flash your lights at another driver.
- If you’re in the left lane and someone wants to pass, move over and let the driver pass you.
- Use your horn sparingly.
Second, if you do encounter an angry driver, don’t make matters worse by triggering a confrontation.
- Avoid eye contact.
- Steer clear and give angry drivers plenty of room.
- Don’t make inappropriate hand or facial gestures.
- If you’re concerned for your safety, call 9-1-1.
When someone gets angry behind the wheel, they often tail gate, speed up, and change lanes aggressively. Road rage, a term often applied to aggressive driving, can cause someone to even intentionally cause an accident.
What causes someone to get aggressive behind the wheel could be something as trivial as slow-moving traffic or someone who accidentally cuts them off.
Even when you maintain your cool behind the wheel, you have to be aware of other drivers. Not everyone else can manage to control their temper, and their frustrations can cause them to drive erratically. They can even be purposefully dangerous.
Kevin Krist, Houston-Area Car Accident Attorney
If you’ve been involved in a Texas car accident in the Houston, Pasadena, or League City areas, I may be able to help. Injury accidents have the potential to change your life. Whether the person who caused the accident was driving aggressively or was distracted with their phone, you could be entitled to compensation.
Contact my office today to discuss your case and what can be done. We can be reached at 281-677-3962.
