Aggressive Driving and Road Rage: How to Protect Yourself on Florida Roads
202502.11
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Aggressive Driving and Road Rage: How to Protect Yourself on Florida Roads

in Aggressive Driving, Road Rage

Florida drivers encounter aggressive driving so frequently that it is hardly newsworthy. A recent incident in West Palm Beach took an even more dangerous turn, as an elderly driver was arrested after threatening another driver with a gun. CBS12 reported after narrowly avoiding a collision due to an illegal lane change, the victim rolled down their window to confront the other driver. In an unexpected turn of events, the driver shouted and pointed a firearm at the victim. Police reported the elderly driver has a history of similar incidents. This serves as a reminder that you never truly know who is behind the wheel or how they might react. Understanding aggressive driving and road rage can help you stay safe and avoid potential injuries.

What Is Aggressive Driving?

Aggressive driving refers to intentionally reckless driving behaviors that put others at risk. According to AAA, almost 80% of drivers engaged in driving aggressively at least once in the past month. This can include speeding, tailgating, cutting off other drivers, honking, speeding, weaving in & out of traffic, ignoring turn signals, etc. As drivers escalate their aggression by “brake-checking,” or blocking cars, the situation can quickly turn into road rage. Drivers throwing objects, ramming or sideswiping cars, forcing drivers off the road, and brandishing weapons or obscene gestures are all dangerous examples of road rage. While authorities consider aggressive driving a traffic offense, they often deem road rage a criminal offense.

How to Prevent Dangerous Incidents

While you can’t control how others drive, you can take steps to protect yourself:

  • Stay calm and avoid engaging with aggressive drivers.
  • Do not make eye contact or use gestures that could escalate the situation.
  • Give aggressive drivers space and let them pass.
  • Remain inside your vehicle.
  • If you feel threatened, drive to a public area or contact law enforcement.

Contact Schwed, Adams & McGinley

If you or a loved one has been injured due to aggressive driving or a road rage incident, the experienced attorneys at Schwed, Adams & McGinley are here to help. With over 200 years of combined experience, our team fights for victims of car accidents and personal injury cases across Florida. We drive the same streets as you every day and know how dangerous it is out there. Contact us today for a free consultation at 877-694-6079 or email us at contact@schwedlawfirm.com.