Can I Sue an Aggressive Driver?
Sitting in heavy traffic, getting cut off by another driver, or being stuck behind a motorist driving well below the speed limit can be frustrating, but it is not an excuse to engage in aggressive driving behaviors. Unlike other examples of negligent driving, aggressive driving is considered a criminal offense in Georgia. According to law, anyone who commits the offense of aggressive driving is guilty of an aggravated misdemeanor, which can have severe legal consequences. If you were injured in a car accident that involved an aggressive driver, you may seek financial compensation. A dedicated car accident lawyer will assist you with this process.
What Is Considered Aggressive Driving in Georgia?
Aggressive driving occurs when a motorist operates a motor vehicle with the intent to annoy, harass, intimidate, injure, or obstruct another person. Common examples of aggressive driving include the following:
- Excessive speeding
- Weaving in and out of lanes of traffic
- Blaring the horn
- Failing to yield to the right of way
- Cutting off other drivers
- Forceful merging
- Ignoring traffic signals and signs
- Making rude gestures to other motorists
- Flashing high beams excessively
- Suddenly applying the brakes to force another driver to stop tailgating
How Do I Prove Another Motorist Was Driving Aggressively?
In order to pursue a lawsuit against the other driver, and recover the damages that you are entitled to, you will need to prove that the other motorist was driving aggressively by proving the following evidence:
- Witness statements: This can also support your claim if there were people who saw the accident happen and can provide a statement that the other driver was tailgating, making rude gestures, or engaging in other types of aggressive driving.
- Photographs from the accident scene: This can help establish the severity of the accident and support aggressive driving allegations.
- Video footage: If surveillance cameras, dash cams, or other footage captured the at-fault motorist driving aggressively, this will provide valuable evidence for your case.
- Report from an accident reconstruction expert: If necessary, your lawyer may hire an accident reconstruction expert, who will evaluate the physical evidence and perform a forensic analysis to determine the cause of the accident.
What Type of Damages am I Entitled for an Aggressive Driving Accident?
If you can prove that the other motorist was driving aggressively at the time of the accident, you may awarded the following damages:
- All medical expenses associated with your injuries
- Lost wages if your injuries prevent you from being able to return to work
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
How Can I Avoid an Aggressive Driving Accident?
You cannot control how other people drive, but you can avoid drivers engaging in unsafe and potentially dangerous behavior. You can protect yourself from aggressive drivers by keeping the following tips in mind:
- Put distance between you and the aggressive driver.
- Ignore rude gestures.
- Stay calm and keep your attention focused on the road.
- Report aggressive, severe behavior or road rage to the authorities.
Our Springfield Car Accident Lawyers at Kicklighter Law Represent Victims of Car Accidents Caused by Aggressive Drivers
If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident that an aggressive driver caused, do not hesitate to contact our Springfield car accident lawyers at Kicklighter Law. We will conduct a thorough investigation, help determine who is responsible for causing the accident, and assist you with every step of the claims process. To schedule a consultation, call us today at 912-754-6003 or contact us online. Located in Springfield, Georgia, we serve clients in Effingham County, Savannah, and the surrounding areas.