Between traffic jams and bad drivers, it can be easy to become frustrated behind the wheel. Many North Carolina drivers may experience anger while driving, but having road rage is a different matter. Becoming enraged behind the wheel can mean disobeying traffic laws and endangering people’s lives. There are ways to avoid the rage and keep a driving record intact.

Defining Aggressive Driving

A spokesperson for the North Carolina Highway Patrol told WRAL that road rage is often hard to police as it typically boils down to a matter of opinion. With modern technology and mobile devices, more drivers are using cellphones to take videos of aggressive drivers, which could be used as evidence. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, North Carolina defines aggressive driving as speeding and driving carelessly in willful disregard of the safety of others while doing at least two of the following:

• Running a red light
• Running a stop sign
• Illegally passing another vehicle
• Failing to yield
• Tailgating or following too closely

South Carolina does not have a law on the books that defines the behavior. However, motorists may still be ticketed for the behavior at the discretion of law enforcement.

The Consequences

A ticket for aggressive driving can cost hundreds of dollars in addition to the inevitable hike to car insurance premiums. An even bigger concern may be the collateral damage. In 2012, road rage accounted for nearly 3,900 injuries across the state of North Carolina, which is up 3 percent from the prior year. Responsible drivers could face paying medical bills and expenses surrounding property damage.

Avoid the Rage

There are several ways that drivers can prevent dangerous road rage incidents and costly aggressive driving tickets. For example, drivers should not get behind the wheel while sleepy. According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleepiness contributes to road rage.

Additionally, driving should not be used as a way to blow off steam. Many people may get into an argument with a loved one or have a tough day at work and choose to go for a ride. However, taking those emotions to the road can create a tenuous situation that can quickly devolve into road rage. Lastly, if motorists encounter someone else driving aggressively, it is important to avoid showing a physical reaction to the behavior. Keeping a temper in check is key to preventing a situation from escalating.

Drivers who are ticketed for aggressive driving may be able to avoid the harsh consequences. At Nosal and Jeter LLP, we have been working with clients for years to reduce and dismiss charges related to traffic violations. Allow us to help you navigate the court system.

Source: WRAL.com, “NC authorities say road rage hard to police,” March 27, 2013