You are heading to Baton Rouge for a family celebration when you see a car quickly gaining on you from behind. The driver begins laying on the horn and flashing their lights as they continue to pick up speed behind you. You move over just in time to see the driver make a rude gesture at you. You pull off to the side of the road to regain your composure before continuing on your way.
All too often, this is the situation on American roadways. Each year eight out of ten drivers are involved in at least one road rage incident. Thirty of those people are murdered by aggressive drivers carrying guns in their cars. As our national roadways look more and more like a scene out of an apocalyptic movie, what can you do to protect yourself?
How to respond when faced with an enraged driver
Here are some things you can do to avoid becoming a victim of road rage:
- Avoid making eye contact with the driver. If you do, this could heighten the driver’s anger.
- Allow them to pass you. Move out of their way as soon as you possibly can.
- Watch out for brake checks. If the driver suddenly slams on their brakes, they are probably trying to get you to hit them. Stay alert and leave some distance between you and the car in front of you.
- Do not engage with the driver, especially if they want you to stop. Never roll down your window for an enraged driver.
- Call 9-1-1 and alert the police to the situation. Note the license plate number and share it with the police so they can quickly locate the driver.
Sometimes, no matter what you do, an accident will happen. If you are injured in an accident caused by road rage contact an experienced legal guide to discuss your options.
