Common Behaviors of Aggressive Drivers

If you commute by car regularly in the Chicago area, you’ve likely witnessed your fair share of aggressive drivers. Living in a large city means heavy traffic, and you’re more likely to encounter reckless driving as a result. However, even if you feel used to these behaviors, remember that reckless driving puts you and other drivers at risk of injury. Be aware of these common behaviors of aggressive drivers to help protect yourself while on the road. If you were injured in an accident, contact an attorney at Saks, Robinson & Rittenberg for advice regarding your specific situation. 

What Is a Common Behavior of Aggressive Drivers?

The most common behavior of aggressive drivers is speeding. About a third of all fatalities in auto accidents are the result of speeding, making it a significant danger on the road. A driver can easily lose control of their vehicle when driving at high rates of speed. 

Every time you travel, you may witness at least one instance of speeding. Speeding-related crashes can be severe and result in life-altering injuries and emotional scars. 

Beyond Road Rage: Forms of Aggressive Driving 

When thinking about aggressive driving, most people may envision road rage. Road rage is indeed related to around half of fatal car accidents in the United States. However, there are many other forms of aggressive driving that are also very dangerous and warrant awareness. Examples of behaviors that fall under aggressive driving include: 

• Tailgating. Tailgating occurs when a driver follows a rear bumper far too closely instead of leaving several car lengths between them and the car ahead. Having a driver too close to your bumper can make for a stressful ride. An aggressive driver does this to pressure you into speeding up. But relenting can mean increasing your risk of injury if you’re already driving at the designated speed. Having to brake while they are close behind you can mean getting rear-ended. 

• Lane Weaving. Weaving between lanes is one of the most dangerous driving behaviors. Someone who is suddenly changing lanes is typically both speeding and tailgating others, meaning it involves a combination of risky driving choices. Lane weaving disregards other drivers who may also be trying to change lanes and can lead to a sideswipe. 

• Brake Checking. Some people attempt to repel tailgaters by brake checking, in which the driver suddenly decelerates when someone is following close behind them. But break-checking is very dangerous and may very well result in an accident.  

• Running Red Lights. Some drivers disregard stop lights while driving recklessly and put others at risk. Individuals hurt in crashes caused by running a red light often include drivers who are stopped in traffic, as well as pedestrians. 

If You Were Injured, Our Attorneys Offer Support

Aggressive driving is the blame for many auto accidents, and unfortunately, these reckless behaviors can lead to significant injuries and even fatalities in those who are involved. If you were hurt in an accident, you need to work with an attorney to pursue your deserved compensation. Contact Saks, Robinson & Rittenberg for a consultation with our Chicago car accident lawyers.