Aggressive driving is more than just a momentary frustration—it's a serious threat to safety on Missouri's highways and streets. For all Missouri drivers, understanding the risks and consequences of this behavior is the first step toward creating safer communities. Our goal here is not to accuse, but to inform and protect.
What Constitutes Aggressive Driving?
While often confused with simple road rage (which involves an angry, criminal intent), aggressive driving refers to a sequence of moving traffic violations that endanger other people or property. This can include:
Excessive Speeding: Driving significantly over the posted limit or too fast for conditions.
Improper Lane Changes: Weaving through traffic, failing to signal, or cutting off other drivers.
Tailgating: Following another vehicle too closely.
Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: Disregarding traffic control devices.
Improper Passing: Passing on the shoulder or using other unsafe methods.
Many of us may occasionally commit one of these infractions in isolation, but when combined and exhibited consistently, these actions escalate into aggressive driving, dramatically increasing the likelihood of a severe collision.
The Immediate Dangers
The consequences of aggressive driving are immediate and often catastrophic. Statistically, drivers who engage in aggressive behaviors are far more likely to be involved in accidents.
Increased Accident Risk: Aggressive maneuvers reduce the reaction time for both the aggressive driver and surrounding vehicles. This lack of distance and time is a primary factor in multi-vehicle pile-ups and high-speed crashes.
Higher Injury Severity: Because aggressive driving frequently involves excessive speed, the resulting accidents often carry a much greater force of impact. This translates directly to more severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and fatalities.
Legal Consequences: For the aggressive driver, this behavior can lead to expensive citations, license points, significant insurance rate hikes, and even criminal charges if the behavior is deemed reckless or if a serious injury or death occurs.
How to Stay Safe
If you encounter an aggressive driver on a Missouri road, your first priority is to de-escalate and disengage.
Do Not Engage: Avoid making eye contact, making gestures, or retaliating with your own aggressive driving.
Create Distance: Safely change lanes or slow down to allow the aggressive driver to pass and move ahead of you. Put as much space between your vehicle and theirs as possible.
Note Information: If you feel it's necessary and safe to do so, note the license plate number, vehicle description, and location, and report the driver to local law enforcement. Never use your phone while driving to do this. Pull over if you must record the details.
If You Are a Victim of Aggressive Driving
Even the safest driver can become the victim of an aggressive driver's negligence. If you or a loved one in Missouri has been injured in a collision caused by an aggressive driver, the journey to recovery—physically, emotionally, and financially—can be overwhelming.
The experienced attorneys at Henry, Williams & Kinder, P.C. understand the complex laws surrounding personal injury and aggressive driving accidents in Missouri. We can help you navigate the process of seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If you need trusted legal guidance, do not hesitate to reach out for a consultation by calling (800) 526-1949.
