As a motorist on roadways around Baltimore County, MD, you are no stranger to witnessing aggressive driving. While traveling along Interstate 83, you spot a vehicle in your rear view mirror and can practically feel the heat as it flies by at an outrageous speed. Maybe you are driving along at the posted speed limit as another motorist changes lanes and you are forced to slam on the brakes to avoid a collision. Regardless of the circumstances, aggressive driving is a significant problem, leading to serious crashes and causing severe injuries for victims. While some information on preventing various types of aggressive driving may help, seek help from a Baltimore County, MD auto accident attorney if you are hurt in a collision.
Statistics on Aggressive Driving
Every year, the Maryland Highway Safety Office (MHSO) issues its benchmark reports on car accident deaths and injuries based upon various criteria. There is a special report dedicated to “Aggressive Driver Involved” incidents, which reveals the following statistics:
- Over the last five years ending in 2017, there were an average of 35 fatal crashes per year linked to aggressive driving;
- The highest number of fatal collisions due to aggressive driving in the relevant period was 48 in 2017;
- Aggressive driving injury accidents actually decreased from almost 2,400 in 2013 to just over 1,600 in 2017; and,
- The total number of crashes in 2017 closely coincides with the five-year average, at 4,526 and 4,604 respectively.
Types of Aggressive Driving
To avoid an accident or encounter with an aggressive driver, you need to be able to spot the signs. Your safety depends on keeping an eye out for:
- Excessive speeding, such as traveling 10 or more miles over the posted limit;
- Going too fast for conditions, where snow, rain, or construction should lead the motorist to slow down and exercise caution;
- Dominating the road, whether through frequent lane changes, weaving in and out of lanes, or traveling along the shoulder;
- Tailgating other drivers, especially when accompanied by honking or flashing lights;
- Blowing through stop signs or entering the intersection at a yellow light;
- Lack of attention and distracted driving;
- Drinking and driving;
- Expressing anger through yelling, hand gestures, or other obscenities; and,
- Many other acts that indicate hostility, violence, or disregard for the safety of others.
Aggressive Driving Encounters and Accidents
Your best bet for protecting yourself and passengers is to avoid confronting or responding to the aggressive driver. Do not yell back or reply with a hand gesture of your own. You should not even make eye contact that might further infuriate the motorist. When it is possible to do so safely, get out of the aggressive driver’s way by exiting or turning. Use caution when considering whether to simply pull over: This may encourage the person to confront you. Once you are no longer driving, call the police and report the motorist. You may save other lives.
Of course, if you are hurt in an accident with an aggressive driver, seek medical attention right away. Then, reach out to an auto accident attorney about your right to compensation for your injuries. For more information, please contact attorney Michael A. Freedman to schedule a free consultation to discuss your legal remedies.
See Related Blog Posts:
Recent AAA Study on Drowsy Driving is a Reminder for Maryland Motorists
Speed a Factor in Car Accident that Injured a Maryland woman
