The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration defines aggressive driving as when:
“an individual commits a combination of moving traffic offenses so as to endanger other persons or property.”
We have all been witnesses to aggressive driving at one point or another. Drivers who dart in and out of traffic, drivers who speed, or drivers who are tailgating other drivers are all exhibiting patterns of reckless and aggressive driving. Aggressive drivers create dangerous traffic conditions for others due to their general disregard for those who are sharing the road or their welfare.
California Law on Aggressive or Reckless Driving
Driving that is considered reckless or aggressive falls under California driving laws. While specific behaviors of aggressive driving may each be a violation, when they are combined to demonstrate a reckless nature, the consequences can be more severe. According to California state law, reckless driving is described as:
“A person who drives a vehicle upon a highway in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property is guilty of reckless driving.”
For more information on reckless driving laws and penalties in California please see Vehicle Code Section 23100-23135.
Aggressive driving can result in serious accidents
Aggressive driving can be difficult to categorize due to the fact that it is often the combination of multiple bad driving behaviors. However, certain facts are more prevalent in aggressive driving cases, these include:
- Speeding
- Running red or yellow lights
- Tailgating (following too closely)
- Frequent and/or unnecessary lane changes
- Road rage
While all of these are dangerous behaviors individually, when combined the accident risks are increased exponentially for both passengers in the driver’s vehicle and for other motorists who are sharing the road. While it is difficult to attribute aggressive driving with fatality and injury statistics, each of the above behaviors can lead to very serious accidents.
Reckless driving injury accidents in Fresno
If you are the victim of an auto accident that was caused by an aggressive driver you need an attorney who is experienced in these cases and understands how dangerous this type of reckless driving can be. The Law Office of Gregory W. Fox understands the complexity of aggressive driving cases and can work with you to develop a solid case to obtain financial compensation. You may be able to recover medical expenses, lost wages, and even financial rewards for pain and suffering. If you would like to schedule a free, no obligation consultation please contact us today.