Over the past seven years, more than 12,000 people have suffered injuries and 218 murders in the U.S. that happened because of road rage. It’s also against the law. Road rage and aggressive driving are often thought to be one and the same, but there are subtle nuances between the two that are important to know.
Most angry drivers may believe that they are suffering from road rage, when, in actuality, they are simply aggressive drivers. What is the point at which aggressive driving becomes road rage? Road rage is considered to occur when a traffic incident escalates into a more threatening and serious situation.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says that aggressive driving is a traffic offense and road rage crosses the line to a criminal offense. Aggressive driving happens when someone commits a traffic offenses that puts other people or property in danger. Road rage is an assault with a motor vehicle that was provoked by someone that happened on the road.
Both of these accounts for many otherwise preventable injuries and deaths on our highways.
Here are some tips to help keep your calm when road rage happens:
- Remember that the other driver is only human. Some drivers seem to have to prove that they are in control of what they view as a competition. While their behavior shouldn’t be excused, having patience can help.
- Avoid direct contact with the other driver. Slow down and move over. Let the other driver pass you. In most cases, the driver will aggressively speed off.
- Try breathing exercises to keep calm. This can help lower your heart rate and blood pressure, helping you to remain relaxed and calmer.
Road rage is crime that can land you in trouble with the law. Aggressive driving can as well, depending on where you are. If you do find you have a charge because of either, an experienced South Daytona attorney can help you learn more about your legal options.