Traffic on busy Michigan highways is a less-than-ideal experience for anyone behind the wheel. When you leave work or are trying to get from one place to another, the last thing you want is to be stuck in a line of cars. Congested driving conditions are often the precipitator to a dangerous behavior called road rage. Nearly 35% of accidents across the United States are a result of aggravated driving.
Road rage is nothing to mess around with. If you’ve been involved in an accident caused by road rage, you need the assistance of a trustworthy and knowledgeable car accident attorney who will fight for you.
Who Experiences Road Rage in Michigan?
In the state of Michigan, road rage is defined as the deliberate intent to harm, intimidate, or cause fear in another driver while behind the wheel of a motor vehicle. There are a variety of actions that can be considered road rage according to the law. The most common include:
- Cursing at other drivers
- Aiming rude or obscene gestures
- Sideswiping another vehicle
- Forcing another driver off the road
- Ramming other vehicles
- Tailgating
- Throwing objects out of a moving vehicle
Even if what you experienced on the road isn’t on this list, it still might be considered road rage. Any time another driver’s aggressive actions cause bodily harm or property damage, you might be entitled to a settlement according to the law.
Common Road Rage Warning Signs
Every day, millions of drivers display actions of road rage. Any time you’re on the road, it’s essential to be vigilant of your surroundings. Many enraged drivers display warning signs of aggressive intentions. The most common warning signs of road rage include:
- Brake checking
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Verbal abuse
- Obscene gestures
- Weaving through traffic
- Ignoring the rules of the road
If you see a driver displaying any of these warning signs, one of the best things you can do for yourself is pull to the side of the road and alert the police. Getting out of the way of an aggressive driver is one way to avoid an accident and help keep you and your passengers safe.
Serious Injuries Caused by Road Rage Accidents
Road rage accidents in Michigan can cause serious physical harm and property damage. Injuries caused by aggressive or enraged drivers are often more serious than those of a typical car accident. Road rage accidents often occur at high speeds and involve erratic driving. When a car experiences impact at high speeds, possible injuries of the occupants include:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Internal bleeding
- Organ damage
- Whiplash
- …and more
Any time you experience an injury from a car accident, the first thing you need to do is seek attention from a medical professional.
Who Is Liable For My Road Rage Accident?
If you are the victim of a road rage accident, you might be able to recover compensation for your personal injuries. After you file an insurance claim, it is possible to seek damages from the other driver to cover financial losses, such as:
- Medical bills
- Rehabilitation
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning potential
- Pain and suffering
If you have been injured in a car accident involving road rage in Michigan, contact an attorney as soon as possible. Having a trusted and competent attorney on your side will increase the likelihood of you winning your claim against the negligent driver who caused your accident.
Trusted and Knowledgeable Legal Counsel In Michigan
The Attorneys at the Michigan Legal Center specialize in representing clients injured in auto accidents and have worked on thousands of cases involving road rage. With more than 20 years of experience and more than $200 millions’ worth of legal cases, we consider it our job to fight for the residents of Michigan. Our team is here to answer your questions and offer advice on the necessary steps to receive compensation for your injuries after an accident. Call 1-800-961-8447 or contact us for your free consultation.