How to Protect Yourself When Dealing with an Aggressive Driver

Categories: Car Accidents

aggressive driver

Aggressive drivers make the roads less safe for everyone around them. Speeding, tailgating, yelling at other drivers – these are all unsafe (and unnecessary) behaviors that increase aggressive drivers’ chances of causing dangerous accidents. Whether a person is just generally ill-tempered or had a bad day at work, there is no excuse for aggressive driving, especially when it puts others in harm’s way.

Tips for Staying Safe Around Aggressive Drivers

For novice and experienced drivers alike, it is important to be aware of the risks posed by aggressive drivers. Here are three tips for staying safe when confronted with an aggressive driver on the road:

Tip #1: Let Them Pass.

If an aggressive driver is trying to get around you, your safest option will often be to let them pass. When it is safe to do so, change lanes or pull over onto the shoulder so that the aggressive driver can go on his or her way.

Tip #2: Maintain a Buffer.

If an aggressive driver is tailgating you in traffic and you do not have anywhere to go, focus on maintaining a buffer between your car and the vehicle in front of you. That way, if traffic stops suddenly, you will have room to brake gradually and help the aggressive driver avoid causing a rear-end collision.

Tip #3: Do Not Engage.

Oftentimes, aggressive drivers want to engage. For some reason, they enjoy being confrontational, and they want to see you react to their aggressive behavior. Just stay focused on the road ahead, and avoid doing or saying anything that could escalate the situation.

What to Do When an Aggressive Driver Causes an Accident

Unfortunately, sometimes there is simply nothing that you can do to avoid becoming the victim of an aggressive driver. If you have been involved in a car accident in Palm Beach County involving an aggressive driver, you should:

  • Call 911. Call 911 to report the accident, and let the dispatcher know that you are dealing with an aggressive driver. Also, let him or her know that you may need medical attention for accident-related injuries.
  • Remain Calm. Don’t stoop to the aggressive driver’s level. Remain calm, and try to avoid letting yourself get drawn into a confrontation.
  • Stay in Your Vehicle, If Possible. If it is safe to do so, you may want to stay in your vehicle until the police arrive.
  • Take Photos and Collect Information. Try to collect as much information as you can. Take photos with your phone, and write down witnesses’ names and numbers.
  • Call Me, Brian D. Guralnick. If you call 561-202-6673 now, you can talk to me, Brian D. Guralnick, personally the steps that you need to take to protect your legal rights.

Brian D. Guralnick Injury Lawyers

At Brian D. Guralnick Injury Lawyers, we provide experienced legal representation for individuals who have been injured in accidents caused by aggressive drivers. To get the help you need to Demand More® for your losses, call 561-202-6673 or schedule a free consultation online today.

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Disclaimer: The information in this blog is not intended, and must not be taken, as legal advice on any particular set of facts or circumstances. If you need advice on specific legal issues, please consult with a licensed Personal Injury attorney.
Brian D. Guralnick

About the Author: Brian D. Guralnick

Brian D. Guralnick is a top-rated attorney practicing in the West Palm Beach, Florida area. Providing legal representation in Florida for a variety of different issues, Brian D. Guralnick was selected to Super Lawyers for 2006. He is admitted to practice before the courts in Florida since 1993.