East Orange NJ Car Accident Lawyer Explains How to Protect Yourself from Road Rage

I’m sure you’ve heard stories on the news about how road rage can turn into devastating car accidents for those involved. According to Safe Motorist, 12,610 injuries were attributed to road rage during a 7-year time span. Hopefully, you never have to come across an instance of road rage on the New Jersey Turnpike; however, if you do come across a driver that exhibits road rage it’s important to know how to handle the situation. Every move that you make can be critical to keeping you and others safe on the road. An East Orange, NJ car accident lawyer explains how to protect yourself from road rage below.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings So You Can Be Pro-Active

One of the best things you can do is to always be aware of your surroundings when you’re on the road. You should be looking in your rearview mirror as well as your side mirrors and focusing on the road in front of you to make sure that you can avoid any aggressive or erratic drivers. It is best to stay out of the way of an aggressive or erratic driver; you never know what their circumstances may be. Therefore, it is hard to rule anything out. Anything is possible, maybe they have a medical emergency and need to get to the hospital, maybe they are driving a stolen vehicle, or maybe they are driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Stay Inside Your Car and Do Not Roll Your Windows Down

If you do come across an angry driver on the road and the driver is trying to get you to roll the window down do not roll your window down. If you feel unsafe, drive to the nearest police station. Furthermore, avoid making eye contact with an infuriated driver because making eye contact may be perceived as a challenge to them.

Be Aware of Hot Buttons That May Trigger Road Rage Drivers in New Jersey

Road rage drivers may become easily agitated, so avoid anything that may push their hot buttons. One of those things is when drivers blow their horn, therefore use your horn sparingly. Retrain from any gestures or name calling as well.

Control Your Reaction and Remain Calm

One of the best things you can do is to stay calm, cool, and collected. If someone cuts you off on a NJ freeway, instead of honking at them or reacting adversely, slow down and maintain enough space between you and them.

Report Road Rage or Aggressive Drivers in New Jersey

If you do notice a road rage or aggressive driver on the road, determine if you’re able to safely get their license plate information. Then call the non-emergency police number to report them. It may help keep other drivers safe on the New Jersey Turnpike.

What to Do If You Are the One Exhibiting “Road Rage Behavior”?

If you find yourself getting angry or aggressive on the road you may want to think about where this anger is coming from. It may be that you just had a fight with your wife, or it could be that there was something upsetting you at work however it’s important to not bring that on the road when you’re driving. Take some time to reflect on where your anger is really stemming from so that you can make a positive change. You may also consider seeking professional help if needed.

Were You Injured in a “Road Rage” Incident on the New Jersey Turnpike?

If you were injured in a car accident in New Jersey contact Clark Law Firm P.C. at 1-877-841-8855 to speak to our East Orange NJ car accident lawyer. You can also chat with us online here.