Dealing With Aggressive Drivers

Aggressive driving is easy to spot on the road. A driver gets annoyed that they are stuck behind a slower driver so they tailgate or honk their horn. It can escalate into making gestures, yelling, or even getting out of the vehicle at a stoplight to confront another driver. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety estimates that 12 percent of drivers have cut off another vehicle on purpose in the last year and another three percent, or six million drivers, have intentionally bumped or rammed another vehicle in an episode of road rage.

Will Insurance Cover Road Rage?

The Insurance Information Institute notes that most insurance policies will not cover a driver who exhibited road rage that caused a crash and injuries. This means that if you are hit by an aggressive driver who is charged criminally for road rage, their insurance might deny your personal injury claim. If you have been hit by someone who was intentionally trying to intimidate you on the road it is critical that you have an experienced car crash attorney working on your case who can advocate for you with the insurance companies. Even if the at-fault driver’s insurance does not cover you, your insurance may kick in.

Uninsured Motorists Coverage- If the driver’s insurance finds the crash is a case of road rage and denies the claim, it is possible to seek compensation through your own uninsured motorists claim. Uninsured motorists coverage can help cover medical bills and property damage. 

Comprehensive Coverage- This coverage applies for damage other than collisions. If an angry driver follows you into a parking lot and decides to damage your car to make a statement, you may be able to seek compensation for the property damage.

Collision Coverage- If a driver swerves in front of you or rams you from behind and causes you to hit a stop sign, light pole, or other object on the road you may be able to file a claim for property damage with your collision coverage.

Steps To Avoid Aggressive Drivers 

• Stay as far away from aggressive drivers as possible;
• If they drive up next to you, anticipate that they will cut you off and slow to leave extra space;
• If you have a passenger, have them record the license plate number and call the police if the aggression escalates;
• Do not engage with the driver or return any gestures;
• If the driver follows you do not stop and instead continue to a police station.

Contact Solution Now Law Firm If You Have Been Injured By an Aggressive Driver  

If you have been injured by someone who was intentionally trying to cause damage, you have every right to be furious. However, it is better that you place your energy towards recovering from your injuries and let a qualified personal injury attorney deal with the insurance companies. The San Jose car accident attorneys at Solution Now Law Firm will help you find justice while getting the best compensation possible. Contact us to schedule your free consultation.