The streets of McAllen can sometimes turn hostile when road rage takes hold. This dangerous behavior manifests in various forms, from tailgating and excessive honking to deliberate collisions and violent confrontations. As tensions escalate, so does the risk of severe accidents, leaving victims suffering from physical, financial, and emotional hardships due to the anger of a dangerous driver.
Common Road Rage Behaviors in McAllen
Road rage can happen anywhere at any time. Road rage can stem from frustration with heavy traffic or feeling wronged by another driver’s actions. Stress, impatience, or personal issues can also fuel aggressive reactions on the road.
Common examples of road rage behaviors include:
- Tailgating
- Excessive honking
- Obscene gestures
- Verbal threats
- Intentional brake-checking
- Cutting off other drivers
- Speeding and weaving through traffic
- Blocking lane changes
- Ramming or sideswiping vehicles
- Throwing objects at other cars
- Exiting a vehicle to confront others
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Chasing other vehicles
- Using high beams to blind drivers
- Deliberately slowing down traffic
Compensation Available for Road Rage Accident Victims
Texas operates under a fault-based system for car accidents, including those caused by road rage. This means that victims have the right to seek compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company or through a personal injury lawsuit. All drivers are required to follow traffic laws and drive safely; when a driver is aggressive and reckless, they breach this duty and are therefore liable for any damages.
In road rage accident claims, victims may be eligible for various forms of compensation. These can include economic damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Additionally, non-economic pain and suffering damages are recoverable. These may include emotional distress, permanent disability, and loss of quality of life. In cases of extreme recklessness or intentional harm, punitive damages might also be awarded to punish the aggressor and deter similar behavior.
What to Do If You Encounter an Aggressive Driver
Encountering an aggressive driver can be a frightening experience, but knowing how to respond can help prevent a dangerous situation from escalating. If you are faced with a road rage incident, keep the following tips in mind:
- First, remain calm and avoid confrontation. Do not make eye contact or respond to the driver. Instead, create distance and allow them to pass if possible.
- If the aggressive behavior persists, do not drive home or to familiar locations. Instead, proceed to a well-lit, populated area or, ideally, a police station.
- Contact law enforcement to report the aggressive driver. Provide as much information as possible, including the vehicle description, license plate number, and your location.
- In extreme cases where the aggressor exits their vehicle, remain inside your car. Keep your windows up and your doors locked, and call the police immediately.
Speak with a Road Rage Accident Attorney Today
Road rage accidents are not only traumatic, but they can also be legally complex. If you have been the victim of road rage in McAllen, you have the right to hold the aggressive driver accountable for the harm that you have suffered. In these situations, you need a lawyer on your side who can advocate for your best interests.
At De La Garza Law Firm, our car accident attorneys in McAllen know what it takes to seek justice after a road rage accident. We will advocate for your rights and fight for the compensation that you deserve every step of the way. Contact us today at (956) 533-1426 to schedule a free case evaluation and learn more about your legal options.
