Texas has an alarming number of drivers on edge, according to a new study that examines road rage in the Lone Star State.
CBSDFW.com shared a study that concluded that Texas drivers admit to road rage and aggression behind the wheel at a rate that exceeds the norm in other states.
Everyone gets angry and has bad days, but losing control of emotions while driving can have deadly consequences. Unfortunately, too many drivers let their anger get the best of them and cause serious crashes.
What are the signs of road rage?
CBSDFW.com lists these signs that a driver is experiencing road rage and may pose a danger to others:
- Hand gestures
- Yelling
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Honking the horn
- Sudden braking
If you see a driver experiencing any road rage behavior, don’t try to confront the driver. Don’t try to teach the driver a lesson. You should avoid them. Keep your distance and try to get away from the driver. If it’s safe to do so, pull over and call 911 to report the aggressive driver, or ask a passenger in your car to call the police.
Most Texas drivers admit to road rage
According to the study by Austin-based insurance company The Zebra, 87 percent of drivers admitted to engaging in road rage behavior. Often, a driver who loses his or her temper behind the wheel is reacting to another driver’s behavior. For example, a tailgating driver or a distracted driver who is texting behind the wheel might trigger another driver’s road rage.
Someone else’s behavior is no excuse for road rage, which increases the chances of causing an accident. A driver who acts crazy behind the wheel and causes an accident will often feel a major financial impact. According to The Zebra, Texas punishes drivers with road rage or aggression more harshly than many other states. Insurance costs go up and the final bill could be more expensive than getting a DUI, according to CBSDFW.com.
How a personal injury attorney can help
Sometimes, you can’t avoid an accident with a driver who is experiencing road rage. Unfortunately, aggressive drivers can cause serious crashes resulting in catastrophic and even fatal injuries. These accidents can lead to complicated personal injury cases.
The aggressive driver might argue your behavior played a part in the accident. At the same time, the insurance company for the at-fault driver may try to downplay your injuries. An insurance company representative may try to convince you to accept a small settlement that doesn’t begin to cover the extent of your losses.
At Laredo law firm of John R. Solis, we know the truth. We fight for accident victims who face serious injuries. We represent clients who lost loved ones in accidents caused by negligent drivers.
Let us handle your claim while you focus on recovery and putting your life back together. Contact us today for a free consultation.