Driving in New York can be a fun thing to do as you see the many sights and sounds around you, but it can also be an entirely stressful time for you as well. Everybody knows that statistics point to many accidents across New York in a year’s time, showing that drivers have it rough throughout the state. One of the leading causes of these horrific accidents was driver inattention due to many aspects such as texting and driving and eating while driving, but many other accidents took place due to drivers who followed others too closely, improper passing, and disregarding traffic signals – all of which can take place due to acts of aggressive driving.
A study has been conducted that showed that New York has some of the angriest and most aggressive drivers in the nation. Because we know that aggressive drivers are responsible for a wide variety of accidents every year, it is imperative that you understand the many ways that you can deal with aggressive drivers who you might encounter on New York roads.
Tips to Deal with Aggressive Drivers
Remain Calm: Staying calm is the best thing that you can do in the face of an aggressive driver. If somebody is tailgating you, honking their horn in an aggressive fashion, or yelling in your direction, do your best not to react to them. Stay focused on your driving and don’t panic. If you react to their aggression, they might react in a dangerous way and you want to do anything you can to ensure that they just go around you when they have the chance.
Yield: The best way to deal with an aggressive driver in many ways is to let them have their way, such as maintaining your speed limit so that they can pass you safely when they are able to do so. You might want to pull over if you think the situation is getting dangerous.
Don’t Use Horns to Yell at Others: Honking your horn can be startling, or anger somebody who is already driving aggressively. You should always honk your horn if you believe somebody is going to crash into you or when you need to alert them of danger, but never as a mean gesture to get back at somebody on the road.
Don’t Be Aggressive: Don’t be an aggressive driver. Always leave on time so that you don’t have to drive quickly to your destinations and don’t tailgate.
If Aggressive Driving Has Caused Your Accident
If you have been involved in an accident due to the negligence of an aggressive driver, your first step to retaining your rights is to call the police so that their actions can be documented as such. If the police have made a report and taken note of the other driver’s aggressive actions and how they have caused you harm, there is a likely chance that you will be able to move forward with a lawsuit in the future, which will help you compensate with a variety of damages.
At Antin, Ehrlich, & Epstein, LLP, our trusted attorneys are here for you when you need it most. We have helped many clients stand up for their rights when it comes to their personal injury cases involving car accidents in New York. We have received successful settlements for those involved in these accidents, including those who have fallen victim to aggressive and other negligent drivers. Contact us to find out how we can assist you in your time of need at 917-730-7151.