Navigating New York roadways can be stressful and challenging, especially when you’re sharing the road with aggressive drivers. Many people automatically think of road rage when discussing driver aggression. However, road rage is merely one type of aggressive driving. There are numerous other aggressive maneuvers that immediately increase the risk of car accidents.
If you notice an aggressive driver nearby, it’s best to try to be proactive to avoid a collision. Consider taking the nearest exit off the road or dropping back in the line of traffic if you can safely do so. If there’s too much traffic, and it’s moving too swiftly, all you can do is stay alert and try to navigate the situation as best you can.
Car accidents are more likely when New York motorists are aggressive
Road rage typically involves drivers who scream or curse or make obscene gestures, or even try to force another vehicle off the road. The following list shows additional types of aggressive maneuvers that place you at risk for car accidents:
- Tailgating
- Unsafe lane changes, such as switching lanes without a turn signal
- Vehicles moving in front of another car, then decelerating
- Blocking vehicles that are safely trying to enter from a merge lane
- Weaving from lane to lane to try to get ahead in traffic
- Not coming to full stops at red lights or stop signs
- Responding to tailgaters by hitting the brakes
These are all aggressive driving maneuvers that place all motorists and pedestrians nearby at great risk for car accidents. While it is frustrating and scary to have someone tailgating you on a fast-paced New York highway, it is never a good idea to “brake check” them because that merely increases the risk of collision.
If an aggressive driver hits you on a New York road
Sadly, car accidents caused by aggressive drivers often result in severe, even catastrophic injuries. As a recovering victim, you may need ongoing medical care. Your injuries might require an extended leave of absence from the workplace during recovery. You might even experience a partial or full disability due to the force of impact when an aggressive driver hits you.
Physical injuries are not the only issue that can make recovery from a motor vehicle collision a long and arduous process. Many people suffer severe emotional trauma, including symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), that can be debilitating and greatly affect their quality of life. New York law provides recourse for recovering accident victims by allowing them to seek financial recovery for their losses in civil court.