Baltimore Car Accident Lawyers: Aggressive Behavior and Driving

It is well known that extreme road rage can have very dangerous consequences, especially when the situation gets out of control. However, what many people may not realize is that even minor acts of aggressive behavior, like swearing or making a rude gesture at another driver, can increase your risk of being in a car accident.

Researchers collected data from a survey of 12,830 people that asked questions on the topic of mental health and risky behavior. The researchers focused on responses provided between 2002 and 2009. Approximately one-third of the drivers surveyed during that time admitted to minor acts of aggressive behavior. Of those, about two percent said that they threatened another driver, or attempted to physically hurt someone or damage their car. The study revealed that highly aggressive behavior can make a person 78% more likely to be in a car accident. This is comparable to the risk of driving under the influence of marijuana.

As the aggressive behavior escalates, so does the level of driver distraction. Angry and aggressive drivers are likely to focus more on another driver, and less on the road. If this happens, and the driver passes another car or swerves from their lane and into oncoming traffic, it can cause a head-on collision. Seatbelts and airbags may not be able to protect drivers from severe, often fatal injuries, particularly if the vehicles were traveling at high speeds.

The survey respondents who described themselves as not at all aggressive were the least likely to be involved in a car accident. According to Christine Wickens, scientist with the Center for Addiction and Mental Health, the results of this survey show that that there is a clear link between aggressive behavior and the risk of a collision.

Maryland Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Seek Maximum Compensation for Victims of Aggressive Driving

If you or someone you love has been seriously injured or killed in a car accident involving an aggressive driver, you may be entitled to compensation. The Maryland car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton know how traumatic this can be and we will work tirelessly to hold the negligent parties responsible for your injuries. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.

Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, allowing us to represent car accident victims throughout Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Parkville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.