As tensions rise on congested highways and busy streets, even a minor traffic incident can escalate into a dangerous confrontation. Aggressive driving occurs when motorists deliberately act in a way that endangers others on the road, which is all too common in the city of McAllen. These behaviors can lead to devastating actions, often leaving victims with serious injuries, extensive property damage, and long-lasting emotional trauma. If you were involved in an accident due to this situation, contact our personal injury lawyers in McAllen today.
Common Forms of Aggressive Driving in McAllen
Aggressive driving encompasses any behavior on the road that disregards the safety of others. It often stems from impatience, anger, or a misplaced sense of competition. McAllen drivers frequently encounter dangerous behaviors, such as:
- Intentional tailgating
- Excessive speeding
- Weaving through traffic
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Brake checking
- Intentionally blocking vehicles
- Honking or gesturing aggressively
Legal Consequences of Aggressive Driving in Texas
Texas takes aggressive driving seriously. While road rage is not a specific criminal offense, many aggressive driving behaviors violate existing traffic laws and can result in significant penalties.
For example, reckless driving is a criminal offense under Section 545.401 of the Texas Transportation Code. This occurs when someone drives a vehicle in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. Convictions can lead to fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
Even less extreme acts, such as unsafe lane changes or tailgating, can result in traffic violations. If aggressive driving escalates to physical violence, perpetrators face criminal charges like assault, carrying much harsher penalties.
Proving Fault in Aggressive Driving Accident Cases
If you have been injured by an aggressive driver, you have the right to pursue compensation through a lawsuit or insurance claim. Texas is a fault-based insurance state, which means that the driver who caused the accident is financially responsible for any damages that occur. However, to recover compensation, you will need to prove that the other driver is at fault.
Aggressive driving often involves illegal acts and dangerous behaviors, which makes the motorist liable if an accident occurs. There are several steps that you can take to strengthen your position against an aggressive driver, such as:
- Filing a police report so that law enforcement officers can document their observations of aggressive driving behavior
- Obtaining traffic, dashcam, or surveillance footage that can establish the series of events leading up to the collision
- Taking photos or videos of vehicle damage, skid marks, and the overall accident scene for future analysis
- Obtaining contact information from witnesses who saw the accident occur and can corroborate the driver’s aggression
- Working with accident reconstruction experts who can analyze the evidence and establish how aggressive driving caused the crash
Speak with a McAllen Aggressive Driving Accident Lawyer Today
When an aggressive driving accident happens, it can be challenging to know what to do next. However, you have the right to seek compensation from the motorist who hurt you by filing a lawsuit or an insurance claim. These processes can be challenging to navigate alone, but an attorney from De La Garza Law Firm can help.
For years, our McAllen car accident lawyers have fought for the rights of the injured. We know what it takes to build a strong case and fight for the settlement that you need to move forward. Contact us today at (956) 533-1426 for a free consultation and take your first steps toward justice.
