How to Avoid Road Rage When Navigating Los Angeles Gridlock
Posted on February 28, 2023 Written By: Donald Stevenson
Road rage is a common experience for many people commuting to Los Angeles, with incidents ranging from being cut off to being tailgated. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, as many as 80% of drivers in Southern California have admitted to experiencing some form of road rage. Although most cases are minor and resolve quickly, road rage has the potential to escalate into dangerous and violent situations, especially in Los Angeles, CA. Shockingly, an estimated 8 million drivers have been involved in extreme aggressive behaviors such as confronting other drivers or intentionally ramming their vehicles.
How Do We Define Road Rage?
“Road rage” refers to the intense aggression or anger experienced by drivers, which can lead to verbal or physical harm towards other drivers. Although road rage is not defined as a crime under California law, this behavior can cause serious incidents such as rear-end collisions and sideswipe accidents. In extreme cases, road rage can even result in physical altercations.
What Are Common Forms of Road Rage?
There are various behaviors that can manifest as road rage and aggressive driving, such as:
- Cutting In Front of Another Car and Then Slowing Down
- Weaving In And Out of Traffic At a Fast Rate of Speed
- Blasting Your Horn At Someone Too Much
- Riding Up On Your Fellow Drivers and Getting Too Close
- Rapidly switching lanes
- Run A Red light
- Yelling Aggressively At Another Driver
- Giving Another Driver the Finger
- Bumping Into Someone Intentionally
- Jumping Out of Your Car After You’ve Both Agreed To Pullover Aggressively
Even though road rage is not explicitly illegal, if an accident takes place, the driver responsible may face consequences such as license suspension or criminal charges.
Ways to Avoid Contributing to Road Rage.
Every day, millions of Los Angeles Citizens commute to school or work, which results in heavy traffic and congested roadways, leading to frustration among drivers. To help combat road rage, here are some tips:
Be Empathetic
It’s important to be empathetic towards other drivers on the road. Sometimes, road rage incidents aren’t directed at you personally. If you notice someone driving below the speed limit or displaying poor driving habits, try to be patient and avoid getting worked up. Losing your temper won’t help you reach your destination faster. However, if you observe hazardous driving behavior from another driver, take immediate action by dialing #77 to report the vehicle.
Ensure that you allow enough time for your commute.
If you hurry to reach your workplace, it may cause you stress. To avoid this, it’s best to allocate sufficient time for your commute. Plan your route well in advance and check for any possible traffic delays using helpful apps such as Google Maps, Waze, or ETA. In case you are running behind schedule, find a safe spot to park your vehicle and inform your employer about the delay by making a phone call.
Don’t Exacerbate The Situation By Blaring Your Horn
Using your car horn in a fit of frustration will only exacerbate your stress levels. Keep in mind that car horns should be reserved for emergency situations only and not used to scold or mock other drivers. Therefore, it’s best to avoid honking unless it’s absolutely necessary.
Keep Your Distance
Tailgating, or driving too closely to the vehicle in front of you, is against the law according to California Vehicle Code 21703 VC. Violating this traffic regulation can result in a fine of over $200 and a point added to your DMV record. To prevent such penalties, it’s advisable to follow the three-second rule and maintain a safe distance between you and the vehicle ahead of you. If you notice that another driver is tailgating you, it’s best to change lanes safely and let the driver pass.
Practice Good Driving Etiquette
Make sure to follow proper driving etiquette at all times. Avoid behaviors such as cutting off other drivers, weaving through traffic, and making unsafe lane changes. When merging lanes, it’s crucial to be extra cautious, particularly when driving in front of a large truck. Keep in mind that trucks require significantly more time to slow down and stop than regular passenger vehicles.
How To Remain Calm When Another Motorist is Coming After You
Remaining calm and ignoring the aggressive behavior of another driver is crucial when faced with road rage. Responding with aggression can only aggravate the situation and even lead to a potential accident. To avoid such scenarios, it’s best to create a safe distance between yourself and the driver by allowing them to pass, slowing down, or exiting at the nearest available ramp. In case the situation worsens, immediately call 911 or proceed to the nearest police station. Remember to always follow defensive driving techniques to ensure your safety and that of others on the road.
What Should I Do If I Have Been Involved In A Road Rage Incident
In the event that you have suffered an injury in a road rage accident, it’s possible to take legal action against the driver responsible for the incident. iAccident Lawyer specializes in representing California drivers who have been affected by road rage accidents. We offer free consultations 24/7 to discuss your legal options. To schedule your consultation, contact us at (800) 920-0810.
Hire an Accident Attorney in Los Angeles
If you or a loved one has been a victim of Road Rage, i Accident Lawyer strongly encourages you to call our Los Angeles car accident lawyers. Your experienced Car Accident Lawyer Los Angeles will provide you with the best legal representation and guidance that you need. Our offices are conveniently located throughout California and we conduct regular travels in the region to meet with clients. Contact Car Accident Lawyer today.
Helpful Links
Los Angeles Superior Courts
Los Angeles Police Department
Los Angeles Road Rage News
Woman Identified in Hollywood Road Rage Incident
Cause of Death for Driver Killed on Pico Blvd. May Be Due To Road Rage
Man Arrested in Suspected Road Rage Incident in Placentia, CA
Accident attorney, Donald Stevenson, is a legal expert and has been practicing law for over 25 years. Donald has been a ruthless fighter, going after insurance companies to get his clients the highest settlement available. His desire to help more people in their time of need has caused him to expand across three states (California, Nevada, and Colorado) to bring his talent to as many people as possible.
