Aggressive drivers push the limits of roadway safety without regard to others. Florida is trying to combat aggressive driving to the point that police officers in Orlando recently handed out 73 tickets in one hour on I-4. The officers cited drivers for cutting others off, using emergency lanes and not obeying traffic markings. Although the array of tickets caused delays, the officers were trying to prove a point and make an example of drivers who cut the corners of the law and put everyone around them in unsafe conditions.
Whether this tactic seems excessive or not, aggressive driving is a widespread problem that leads to dangerous situations and accidents along roadways throughout the country. In 2010, there were 53 deaths and 321 serious injuries caused by vehicle crashes involving aggressive driving in Florida.
What is aggressive driving?
Aggressive driving comprises at least two of the following:
- Speeding
- Improperly or unlawfully changing lanes
- Tailgating
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Improperly or unlawfully passing another vehicle
- Failing to follow traffic control devices or signals
What are the consequences of driving aggressively?
Florida law currently does not allow police officers to enforce aggressive driving per se, but they can give tickets for each separate traffic violation. For example, speeding or running a stop sign is illegal, regardless of how aggressively it is done. However, there are other consequences of aggressive driving, such as accidents that can lead to serious injuries and death. These accidents often result in medical bills, lost time from work and lawsuits.
How can you avoid aggressive drivers?
If you are driving and notice someone else taking aggressive measures, try to avoid the person. Let the driver pass, move to a lane further away and don’t pursue a confrontation. If you were injured in an accident caused by an aggressive driver, a Sarasota car accident attorney can be a strong advocate on your side of the fight to bring the aggressive driver to justice.