What Are Common Aggressive Driving Behaviors?
Engaging in aggressive driving is a risky behavior that can lead to severe accidents and catastrophic injuries. A car accident lawyer from the Tawwater Law Firm can help accident victims obtain a fair settlement for their injuries and property damage.
Aggressive driving behaviors put Oklahoma City, OK, drivers at risk of serious car accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident you believe was caused by aggressive driving, the attorneys of the Tawwater Law Firm can help.
Common Aggressive Driving Behaviors
Aggressive driving is dangerous and more widespread than many would guess. This is partly due to the fact that aggressive driving takes many forms, from yelling behind the wheel to more severe behaviors, like purposely bumping another car.
When aggressive driving causes an accident, it can lead to serious injuries. By being aware of some of the most common aggressive driving behaviors, we may be better able to notice aggressive driving behaviors in ourselves and others to avoid accidents caused by aggressive driving.
With that said, here are some of the most common aggressive driving behaviors to be aware of when you're on the road in Oklahoma City.
Yelling and Gesturing
Yelling, gesturing, and honking your horn in anger are considered aggressive driving behaviors. Although they may seem harmless, given certain circumstances these behaviors can lead to an escalation of aggressive actions.
Yelling or gesturing at another driver can trigger the recipient to retaliate. If both drivers engage, it can lead to reckless driving or a confrontation. In either case, those involved can become seriously injured.
Speeding
Speeding is one of the most common aggressive driving behaviors. When drivers become impatient, are running late, or are otherwise aggravated, they may be more likely to speed.
Not only is speeding a common form of aggressive driving, it's also one of the most dangerous. According to the National Highway Safety Association (NHTSA), speeding has contributed to roughly one-third of all motor vehicle fatalities for the past 20 years. In 2018 alone, 9,378 people were killed in speeding accidents.
Tailgating
Another behavior that aggressive drivers may engage in is tailgating. Aggressive drivers may closely follow the driver in front of them as a means to intimidate, try to pressure the driver to go faster, or to pressure the driver to switch lanes.
If the person being tailgated needs to brake abruptly, the aggressive driver may not have time to stop and end up slamming into the car they are following too closely.
Cutting Off Another Driver
Aggressive drivers often purposely cut other drivers off. Aggressive drivers may cut off another driver in retaliation, or may cut off others as they speed from lane to lane.
Intentionally cutting someone off can cause serious accidents, especially when speeding is also involved.
Purposely Hitting Another Vehicle
It may seem unlikely that someone would purposely bump or hit another vehicle, but aggressive drivers have been known to do so.
When done at high speeds, bumping or ramming a car can cause the driver to lose control, potentially causing a serious accident.
Contact the Attorneys of Tawwater Law Firm
If you live in or around Oklahoma City and have been injured in a car accident, our car accident attorneys may be able to help. To schedule an appointment, call the Tawwater Law Firm at (405) 607-1400.