Washington, D.C. Road Rage Car Accident Lawyer

What Is Road Rage?

Road rage refers to aggressive or violent behavior exhibited by a driver due to frustration or anger while operating a vehicle. This behavior often stems from traffic delays, perceived slights by other drivers, or personal stress. Common examples include:

• Honking excessively
• Making rude gestures
• Blocking other vehicles
• Forcing another vehicle off the road
• Purposely crashing into another vehicle
• Using a weapon against another driver

In some cases, aggressive driving and road rage escalate into physical altercations or deliberate acts of violence. When such behavior leads to a car accident, the at-fault driver may be held legally responsible for the resulting damages.
Understanding the distinction between aggressive driving, which involves traffic violations, and road rage, which is intentional and malicious, is essential in determining liability.

How Do Road Rage Accidents Occur?

Road rage accidents can happen in various ways; they are often rooted in reckless actions by an aggressive driver, like tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and running red lights. The aggressor’s emotions can be aggravated further, leading to more violent acts.

The unpredictability of road rage incidents makes them particularly dangerous. These drivers often act impulsively, leaving little time for others to react and avoid collisions.

What Types of Injuries Are Common in Road Rage Accidents?

Injuries sustained in road rage accidents can range from minor to severe, depending on the nature of the collision and the circumstances surrounding the incident. Common injuries include whiplash, broken bones, lacerations, and traumatic brain injuries. In more severe cases, survivors may suffer spinal cord damage, internal organ injuries, or permanent disability.

Beyond physical harm, individuals involved in road rage accidents often experience emotional and psychological effects. Survivor anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and fear of driving are common following such incidents. The combination of physical injuries and emotional trauma can have a lasting impact on an individual’s quality of life.

Who Is Liable in a Road Rage Accident?

Liability in a road rage accident typically falls on the aggressive driver whose actions caused the collision. Proving liability requires demonstrating that the driver acted recklessly or intentionally, leading to the accident. Evidence such as eyewitness accounts, video footage, and police reports play leading roles in establishing fault.
In some cases, additional parties may share liability:

• A passenger encouraged the aggressive behavior.
• Both drivers were driving aggressively and/or had road rage.
• If a commercial driver engaged in road rage while operating a company vehicle, the employer may bear responsibility under certain legal theories.

The Washington, D.C. road rage car accident lawyer can help you determine liability and fight for fair compensation.

What Steps Should I Take After a Road Rage Accident in Washington, D.C.?

If you are involved in a road rage accident, prioritize your safety and well-being first. Call 911 and, if possible, move your car to a nearby safe location. Do not engage with the aggressive driver; lock your doors and windows. When help arrives, request medical attention immediately, even if injuries are not apparent; some conditions do not present with symptoms until some time has passed.
Gathering evidence at the scene can strengthen your case. Examples include photographing the vehicles involved, obtaining contact information from witnesses, and documenting visible injuries. Be sure to request a copy of the police report as well.

How Can I Seek Compensation for a Road Rage Accident?

Survivors of road rage accidents may pursue compensation through a personal injury claim. This involves proving that the other driver’s aggressive behavior caused the accident and resulted in damages. Compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.

In Washington, D.C., the contributory negligence standard applies, meaning that if a survivor is found to have contributed even minimally to the accident, they may be barred from recovering damages. The Washington, D.C. road rage car accident lawyer understands these legal nuances and can help build a case that maximizes the chances of a favorable outcome.

Are There Criminal Consequences for Road Rage?

Road rage incidents often lead to criminal charges against aggressive drivers. Depending on the circumstances, charges may include reckless driving, assault, or vehicular homicide. Criminal penalties can include fines, license suspension, and imprisonment.

While criminal proceedings focus on punishing the offender, they do not directly compensate individuals injured in the incident. The Washington, D.C. road rage car accident lawyer can help clients pursue civil claims, allowing them to seek financial recovery for their losses, separate from any criminal charges the at-fault driver may face.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim?

In Washington, D.C., the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is three years from the date of the accident. This time limit applies to most cases involving road rage accidents. Failing to file within this period may result in the loss of the right to pursue compensation.

Certain exceptions may apply, such as cases involving minors or incapacitated individuals, which could extend the deadline. We recommend contacting the Washington, D.C. road rage car accident lawyer as soon as possible after an accident to help meet all deadlines.

Let the Skilled Washington, D.C. Road Rage Car Accident Lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Fight for Justice After Your Road Rage Accident

If you have been injured in a road rage accident, a Washington, D.C. road rage car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Call 202-331-1963 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Washington, D.C., National Harbor, Maryland, and Falls Church, Virginia, we serve clients in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.