Aggressive driving is the dangerous combination of multiple moving offenses with willful disregard for safety. Common examples of aggressive driving include speeding, tailgating, weaving through lanes, disregarding traffic signs, and making unsafe lane changes. Here is more information about these dangerous types of aggressive driving, how to handle an aggressive driver, and why they can lead to car accident liability.
Speeding
Some drivers become aggressive because of impatience or frustration. These same factors can contribute to speeding.
Speeding places other motorists at risk because:
- Speeding increases the likelihood that a driver will lose control of their vehicle.
- Speeding increases the time necessary to reach a complete stop after the driver recognizes a hazard.
- Speeding results in more serious injuries because accidents involve greater forces.
- Safety equipment, such as seatbelts and airbags, is less effective at higher speeds.
All drivers are expected to follow all traffic rules, including obeying posted speed limits. Speeding accidents in San Antonio often result in severe injury or even death.
Tailgating
Many aggressive drivers tailgate others, often trying to intimidate them out of the way. This is dangerous because there may be inadequate time to come to a stop if the vehicle in front suddenly stops. The tailgating driver can be held liable if they cause a rear-end collision due to failing to maintain a safe following distance.
Weaving Through Lanes
Some aggressive drivers weave in and out of lanes, disregarding the safety of others. These drivers may not look before changing lanes and may not signal. This behavior can make predicting their actions difficult and can cause collisions with law-abiding drivers.
Disregarding Traffic Signs
Aggressive drivers may not comply with traffic signals or signs. They may run red lights or stop signs, try to “beat” yellow lights, or fail to yield the right-of-way. These dangerous maneuvers put other motorists at risk, who reasonably expect other drivers to obey the rules of the road.
Making Unsafe Lane Changes or Passes
Aggressive drivers may make unsafe lane changes or make unsafe passes. Drivers are expected to yield to other drivers in certain areas and check their blind spots before switching lanes. They may pass on double lines or in no-passing areas. They could also refuse to allow other motorists to pass them.
The highly dangerous driving maneuvers discussed above can cause preventable accidents, serious injuries, and extensive damage. Since Texas is an at-fault state for car accidents, these behaviors can lead to significant civil liability to the victims. In at-fault states like Texas, at-fault drivers must pay for the economic and non-economic damages they caused through their negligence, including medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Contact George Salinas Injury Lawyers for a Free Case Review
At George Salinas Injury Lawyers, we are here to help car accident victims who are injured by the negligent or reckless behaviors of others. We can investigate your case, gather evidence to prove the role aggressive driving had on your case, and help you demand the financial compensation you need and deserve. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.