Massachusetts Legal Developments Blog

Road Rage is Dangerous

Every now and then tempers will boil when you are onthe road behind another driver who is driving too slowly when you are running late for work or an important appointment. It happens to everyone. Most of us keep those frustrations to ourselves and get to our destinations safely, but often late. However, some people will turn those frustrations into extreme aggression. They will lash out at the other driver and find themselves experiencing road rage, which can lead to an arrest, or worse. If you are accused of road rage, you should contact a reliable criminal defense attorney.

What is Road Rage?

Road rage can be defined as any moving traffic violation by a motorist that endangers other drivers or individuals. Road rage is an assault with a motor vehicle or other dangerous weapon toward another motorist.

In some instances, road rage may cause the perpetrator to be charged with an additional crime, such as speeding, endangerment, unsafe driving, or reckless driving. In Massachusetts, if you hold a junior operator's license and you are caught speeding in competition with another motorist, you may be convicted of drag racing. Then, you will be required to complete a court program against road rage.

According to an article in Safemotorist.com, the National Highway Traffic Safety Association and Auto Vantage auto club have compiled statistics that show road rage causes several problems on today's highways, which include:

  • 66% of traffic fatalities are caused by aggressive driving.

  • 37% of aggressive driving incidents involve a firearm.

  • Males under the age of 19 are the most likely to exhibit road rage.

  • Half of drivers who are on the receiving end of an aggressive behavior, such as horn honking, a rude gesture, or tailgating admit to responding with aggressive behavior themselves.

  • Over a seven-year period, 218 murders and 12,610 injuries were attributed to road rage.

How to Avoid Being a Victim of Road Rage

There are certain things a motorist can do to avoid being a victim of road rage:

  • Follow the laws of the highway

  • Do not block lanes

  • Maintain a safe distance between you and the car in front of you

  • Use proper signaling when changing lanes

  • Avoid offensive hand gestures or verbal comments

  • Use your horn only when necessary

Legal Help for Road Rage Accusations

If you are charged with road rage, the consequences can be serious. One could face additional charges such as assault, battery, criminal threats, or hit and run. You could not only lose your driver's license, but you could spend time in jail or prison. Contact a criminal defense attorney who can develop a strategy that will help your case.

Boston Criminal Defense Attorney Edward Molari can provide you with legal advice that may help reduce the punishment or lessen the charge. He cares about your situation and provides personalized legal services in every case. Contact attorney Edward Molari at 617-942-1532 for a free consultation.