Research suggests road rage is as hazardous as driving under the influence. An aggressive driver acts irrationally, endangering the safety and lives of other drivers.
If you suffered injuries in an accident caused by an angry driver who was violating traffic laws, a Greenville car accident lawyer at David R. Price, Jr., P.A. can help you understand how the law applies to your claim and what you can do to recover compensation for your loss.
Greenville Lawyer for Road Rage Accident Victims
After a road rage accident, victims are often left financially and emotionally impacted. We make it our responsibility to handle and protect your case throughout the process, so you can be sure to obtain fair compensation.
If you hire our firm, some tasks your attorney will perform include the following:
- Investigating the accident to find evidence of negligent or reckless conduct, particularly aggressive driving and road law violations
- Gather evidence connecting your accident and injuries to the at-fault driver’s actions
- Identify recoverable damages, including economic losses such as medical bills and lost wages, and non-economic losses like pain and suffering
- Negotiate with the at-fault driver’s insurance company to reach a fast and fair settlement
- Prepare your case for trial if the insurance company fails to offer an adequate settlement
Most importantly, we can provide an objective, professional presence in an emotionally charged situation. We understand the frustration you feel and will fight to protect your claim.
South Carolina Road Rage Laws
South Carolina law 56-5-2920 defines a reckless driver as someone who “drives any vehicle in such a manner as to indicate either a wilful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” Certainly an aggressive driver is a reckless driver. The actions that constitute aggressive driving can quickly escalate into road rage.
Consider common examples of aggressive driving and how they violate South Carolina law:
- Running red lights
- Driving excessively over the speed limit
- Making unsafe lane changes
- Weaving in and out of heavy traffic
- Violating traffic signs
Road rage is the next stage of aggressive driving when these behaviors escalate to more dangerous actions.
For instance, tailgating is the most common manifestation of road rage. It entails an aggressive driver following another vehicle too closely behind, often while honking, yelling, and making rude gestures. Combine tailgating with high speeds, and the resulting accident could cause severe injuries to everyone involved.
How To Avoid Being a Victim of Road Rage in Greenville, SC
If you encounter an aggressive driver, keeping cool is the most effective way to avoid an accident. Attempting to retaliate will likely only escalate the situation. For example, if someone tailgates you on a busy highway, the temptation to brake check them may come over you, but that is illegal and could result in a dangerous collision.
Instead of focusing on the angry driver trying to express their frustration, think about the safety of yourself, your passengers, and the other innocent people on the road. Let the aggressive driver pass and avoid making eye contact or giving them attention.
Continue adhering to safe driving practices, such as following the speed limit and remaining in your lane. You can even ask a passenger to call the police and report the driver, but any accident lawyer would advise you not to take matters into your own hands until the situation has passed. By not reacting in the moment, you are more likely to avoid potential injuries and fatalities.
What To Do After an Accident With an Aggressive Driver
Some accidents are unavoidable, however. In the aftermath of a road rage accident, you can take these critical steps to protect yourself from an altercation and build evidence to prove your right to compensation:
- Avoid talking to the aggressive driver:Â Instead, contact the police and remain in a safe place until they arrive. The police will collect statements from everyone.
- Seek medical attention immediately:Â Regardless of how well you feel immediately after an auto accident, you should still seek a medical evaluation as soon as possible. The doctor may catch internal injuries before they do irreparable damage, and medical records will link your accident directly to your injuries to strengthen your claim.
- Document everything:Â If you have the time, take photographs of the scene, including the damage to both vehicles, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area.
- Contact an aggressive driving accident lawyer: Speak to a lawyer as soon as possible in order to start the process of filing your claim and getting the compensation you need to cover your losses.
Remember, your health and safety are the priority. An aggressive driver can turn even angrier after a collision. Interaction with such a person could result in avoidable violence.
Contact a Road Rage Accident Lawyer in Greenville Today
There is no time too soon to contact a car accident lawyer after suffering injuries from an aggressive driver. The law protects you from being held responsible for the financial outcome of someone else’s inexcusable behavior.
Our personal injury firm understands the importance of having experienced legal representation to ensure you hold the at-fault driver accountable and receive adequate compensation for your losses. Contact David R. Price, Jr., P.A. in Greenville, South Carolina, to schedule your free consultation and speak with one of our car accident attorneys.
