Road rage has become a serious problem on our highways. According to The American Automobile Association (AAA), eight out of every ten drivers have been involved in a road rage incident. Add to this the fact that many people carry guns in their cars and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.
AAA reports that between 2017-2021 there was a 98% increase in gun violence on our nation’s highways. During this time frame, 439 people were murdered due to road rage. 2021 was the deadliest year so far, with an average of 44 people per month shot, killed or wounded by a raging driver.
What is causing the increase in road rage?
Some of the behaviors that fuel aggression in gun-related road rage incidents include:
- Speeding
- Passing in a no-passing zone
- Failing to signal
- Failing to yield
- Erratic lane changes
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Excessive speeding, especially in construction zones
- Driving illegally on the shoulder or median
- Following too closely
- Drunk driving
Traffic conditions can also trigger aggression, especially during rush hour. Some people become very angry when they have to sit in traffic after a long workday.
How can you guard against aggressive drivers?
First and foremost, do not engage an aggressive driver. Do not respond to their gestures and do not look them in the eye. Responding to these behaviors only triggers them more. Instead:
- Do your best to stay out of their way. If someone is riding your bumper and laying on their horn, move out of their way as soon as possible.
- If the driver continues to rage at you and you feel threatened, pull over (if possible) and call 9-1-1.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a road rage-related accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages.
