What to do in a Road Rage Incident

Most road users will experience road rage at some point while driving or riding. For most, it’s just an unpleasant encounter in passing, but in other cases, road rage can put you at serious risk of injury.

Use the information in this guide to stay safe during a road rage incident.

What is road rage?

Road rage is any form of aggressive or hostile behaviour triggered by stressful or frustrating experiences on the road that could lead to a serious injury. This can range from:

• Obscene gestures
• Verbal abuse
• Aggressive driving (e.g. tailgating, cutting off, brake checking, or forcing another vehicle off the road)
• Following another vehicle
• Physical assault
• Car accidents, in serious cases

Is road rage an offence and what are the consequences?

While becoming frustrated at the wheel is not in itself an offence, the aggressive behaviour that results from road rage may constitute a criminal offence such as assault, dangerous driving, or bodily harm.

How to deal with road rage drivers

Being the victim of road rage is always stressful, and it can be tempting to retaliate or take your eyes off the road – both of which can substantially increase your chances of a serious injury from a car accident. Instead, take the following measures to deal with a road rage driver:

• Avoid eye contact. Engaging with the other driver will only exacerbate the situation
• Don’t get out of your car
• Don’t speed up if the aggressor is pursuing you
• If you’re being followed, pull over in a public place. Don’t lead the aggressor to your home

Make a Motor Vehicle Accident claim today

LHD Lawyers help everyday Australians receive the benefits they are entitled to for motor vehicle accident claims. We are so sure of our abilities to win your case that we stand firmly by our No Win No Fee Policy. Call 1800 455 725 to arrange a consultation.