Accidents Caused by Aggressive Driving in Buffalo, NY
Aggressive driving is a serious issue that happens more often than you can imagine. According to recent data, dangerous driving behaviors have been on the rise, putting us all at a greater risk of accidents. From excessive speeding to reckless lane changes, these behaviors endanger everyone on the road. If you or a loved one was in an accident involving an aggressive driver, Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law can help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Understanding Aggressive Driving Behaviors
Aggressive driving often overlaps with “reckless driving,” which is illegal under New York law. These behaviors significantly increase the risk of serious accidents and injuries.
Some of the most common aggressive driving behaviors include:
- Speeding: Driving over the speed limit reduces reaction time and increases stopping distance, making accidents more severe.
- Tailgating: Following another vehicle too closely can lead to rear-end collisions, especially in heavy traffic or poor weather conditions.
- Blowing Through Traffic Lights and Stop Signs: Running red lights or ignoring stop signs can cause devastating side-impact crashes.
- Cutting Off Other Drivers or Swerving Suddenly: Changing lanes abruptly can surprise other motorists and cause accidents.
- Aggressive Honking, Flashing Lights, or Sudden Braking: Intimidating other drivers through these actions creates dangerous road conditions.
- Yelling or Making Rude Gestures: Road rage incidents not only put everyone on the road at risk of a collision but can also escalate to assaults.
Awareness of your surroundings on the road is critical to protecting yourself against these aggressive drivers.
What to Do if You See an Aggressive Driver
If you encounter an aggressive driver on the road, think “safety first.” Retaliation or any engagement at all with an aggressive driver can take an already dangerous situation to the next level. Follow these safety tips instead:
- Move out of their way safely if you notice an aggressive driver. Allow them to pass or change lanes yourself to avoid confrontation.
- Maintain extra following distance between your vehicle and an aggressive driver. This reduces the risk of having to suddenly stop or swerve in response to their unpredictable behavior.
- Avoid engaging or making eye contact as road rage incidents can escalate when drivers interact. Stay focused on the road instead.
- Never challenge or retaliate against the aggressor. Any retaliation can put you and others in danger.
- If safe, note the vehicle and license plate number to help authorities track down the driver.
- Exit the highway, if necessary, especially if an aggressive driver is following you.
- Drive to a police station if you feel threatened, or find a safe, public space if you believe you are being followed.
- Call 911 if the driver poses an immediate danger to prevent potential harm to others.
What to Do After an Accident with an Aggressive Driver
If, despite your precautions, an aggressive driver’s recklessness causes a crash, here are steps you should take to protect yourself and your claim:
- Remain inside your vehicle with the doors locked and windows up to prevent further confrontation.
- Call 911 immediately to report the incident and make sure law enforcement is dispatched to the scene.
- If you feel threatened, drive to the nearest police station or safe public space.
- If you can do so safely, document the accident by taking photos or recording video of the vehicles, damage, and any relevant road conditions.
- If safe to do so, gather witness contact information as well.
- Report the accident to your insurance provider to initiate the claims process once your situation is no longer dangerous.
- Contact our experienced car accident lawyers in Buffalo to better understand your legal rights and pursue compensation for your damages.
Compensation After an Aggressive Driving Accident
Victims of aggressive driving accidents may be entitled to compensation for their losses. The amount of compensation will depend on the severity of the crash and injuries sustained. Your damages may include:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital bills, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care
- Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity: Compensation for time missed from work and long-term income loss due to injuries
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident
- Punitive Damages for Reckless Behavior: Damages in extreme cases that penalize aggressive drivers and deter future incidents
How Aggressive Driving Lawyers Can Help
Our team of Buffalo aggressive driving lawyers can provide legal support by:
- Thoroughly investigating the crash and collecting critical evidence, including police reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements
- Collaborating with accident reconstruction experts to establish fault and document the aggressive driver’s behavior
- Strategically negotiating with insurance companies to maximize your compensation
- Securing full recovery for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering
We handle all the above and more. We fight to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Contact Us After an Accident Involving an Aggressive Driver
If an aggressive driver’s reckless actions caused harm to you or a loved one, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. The legal team at Hiller Comerford Injury & Disability Law are ready to fight for your rights. Contact us today and let us help you secure the compensation you deserve.
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