While most car accidents involve negligence or carelessness, some are predicated on intentional and aggressive actions. If you were harmed by a dangerous or angry driver, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. Caruso Law Offices can help you demand it. We offer a free and confidential case review for all new clients. Contact our Albuquerque auto wreck lawyers today to learn more about your legal rights and options following a road rage accident.
What Is Road Rage?
Road rage is a form of aggressive driving. The AAA defines aggressive driving as “any unsafe driving behavior performed deliberately and with ill intention or disregard for safety. In an AAA survey, almost 80% of drivers said they felt significant anger or aggression while driving at least once during the last year.
Road rage goes a step beyond aggressive behavior, often involving criminal conduct, such as running other vehicles off the roadway, following another driver and attacking them, or hitting another vehicle with a car.
Common Examples of Road Rage and Aggressive Driving in Albuquerque
Road rage and aggressive driving behaviors may include:
- Speeding
- Making angry gestures
- Yelling and cursing
- Tailgating
- Blaring the horn
- Cutting off other drivers
- Running red lights
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Quickly passing another driver and then slamming on the brakes to cause accidents or near-accidents
- Blocking other vehicles from passing
- Blinding other drivers with headlights
These encounters can be scary, so it’s essential you know how to act in case you come head-to-head with a dangerous and aggressive driver.
What to Do If You Encounter an Aggressive Driver in Albuquerque
Your safety is the most important priority. Here are some tips from car accident attorneys in Albuquerque to help you stay safe if you notice another driver acting aggressively on the road:
- Distance yourself – Safely change lanes and slow down to get away from the other driver. Exit the highway if necessary.
- Don’t stop – Avoid stopping your vehicle, as this can lead to a confrontation with the other driver. If you feel you are in danger, lock your doors and drive to the nearest police station.
- Call for help – As soon as it is safe, call the police to report the driver’s conduct.
- Don’t respond to the other driver – Avoid matching the aggression of the other driver. Avoid eye contact.
When it is safe to do so, write down the driver’s license plate number and a description of their vehicle.
Damages You Can Seek in a Road Rage Accident in New Mexico
If you were injured in an accident caused by a road rager, you may be entitled to compensation, or damages, for your accident-related losses, which might include:
- Medical expenses, including emergency medical treatment and anticipated future medical expenses
- Lost wages and employment benefits
- Lost or reduced earning capacity
- Costs to repair or replace a damaged vehicle
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
Additionally, you may be able to seek punitive damages. These damages are rare but reserved for cases like this that involve intentional or dangerous behavior. They punish the wrongdoer for their conduct and try to prevent similar actions in the future.
Call Our Car Accident Lawyers Today for a Free Case Review in Albuquerque
The experienced Albuquerque car accident lawyers at Caruso Law Offices can discuss your legal rights and options during a free case review. Contact us today to get started.