The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines aggressive driving as when an operator of a motor vehicle commits a combination of moving traffic offenses so as to endanger other persons or property.
According to the New York State Police an aggressive driver is one who “operates a motor vehicle in a selfish, bold or pushy manner, without regard for the rights or safety of the other users of the streets and highways.”
Aggressive driving may include a combination of the following traffic violations:
- Excessive Speed
- Tailgating
- Impaired Driving
- Frequent or Unsafe Lane Changes
- Failure to Signal
- Failure to Yield the Right of Way
- Disregarding Traffic Controls
Aggressive driving endangers all of us who use our roads and highways. New York State reports that aggressive driving behavior is a contributing factor in 59% of all crashes and 66% of all fatal crashes.
Aggressive Driving vs. Road Rage
There is a difference between aggressive driving and “road rage”. Road rage occurs when an incident on the roadway causes a driver or passenger to become enraged and intentionally use the car as a dangerous weapon or to otherwise physically assault another driver or passenger because of the incident. Road rage is a violent criminal offense and is not what is meant by aggressive driving.
Road rage is a violent criminal offense and is not what is meant by aggressive driving
Aggressive drivers are operating their car in a careless and reckless manner, cutting through traffic, speeding, tailgating, and otherwise disregarding the safety of others upon the road.
NHTSA considers the running of a red light one of the most dangerous forms of aggressive driving.
New York State Police recommend these tips when you encounter an aggressive driver:
- Remain calm
- Keep your distance
- Do not pass unless you have to
- Change lanes once it is safe (don’t jump lanes without looking)
- If you cannot change lanes and an aggressive driver is behind you, stay where you are, maintain the proper speed and do not respond with hostile gestures.
- You may call 911 (or *911 from a cell phone) to report an aggressive driver or a driver you believe may be impaired.
Aggressive driving results in accidents, produces injuries and takes lives.
Injured in a New York Car Accident?
When you or a loved one has been hurt in a New York car crash, it can be a trying and difficult time. There are medical expenses, lost wages and other hardships. Claim forms must be timely filed in order to obtain no-fault and other benefits. In addition, certain legal requirements must be established in order to be entitled to receive compensation for pain and suffering from the wrongdoer. During this time, you need a veteran New York personal injury attorney on your side.
Since 1987, Mr. DiMartini has represented people injured in car accidents throughout the New York City metropolitan area. He has a long record of success winning favorable settlements and awards for his injured clients. He knows the legal requirements that must be met and how to establish that the aggressive driver was at fault for the accident.
We will walk you through every step of the process to make it as worry free as possible. With our years of experience, we will professionally and aggressively protect your rights and assert your claim to get you the maximum recovery for your injuries.
Personal injury law is all we do. We know how to get results!
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has been injured in a New York car accident due to an aggressive driver, we are here to fight for your rights. Call Mr. DiMartini directly at 1-855-428-7322. You can also contact us online. The consultation is free. There is never a fee unless we win your case!
