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Firm News

Culpeper drivers: “Safety and Patience” needed now that school is back
Posted on 8/29/2010
MD man leads Culpeper police on high-speed Rt. 3 chase, crashes car
Posted on 8/25/2010
Fauquier County reckless driving wreck lands four in hospital
Posted on 7/29/2010
Will the I-66 speed limit be raised?
Posted on 7/27/2010
Prince William County police cruiser involved in serious wreck
Posted on 6/30/2010
Hit and run car accident injures Culpeper man
Posted on 6/29/2010
Three taken to hospital after two serious vehicle wrecks in Culpeper
Posted on 6/29/2010
Four injured in single-vehicle Culpeper car crash
Posted on 5/29/2010
No Manslaughter Charges for Defendant in Deadly Rt. 3 Culpeper Crash
Posted on 5/25/2010
VDOT wants Virginia drivers to make work zones NO PHONE ZONES
Posted on 4/27/2010

Library

The Danger of Aggressive Drivers on Virginia Roads

Anybody who drives the busy and congested roads and highways of Northern Virginia knows how easy it is to become frustrated with inconsiderate drivers, accidents during rush hour, or unexpected traffic snarls. Stress is a major contributor to the anger that drivers sometimes feel when commuting or just trying to get from point A to point B. However, no matter how irritating other motorists or roadway issues can be, there is never an excuse for aggressive driving – which can lead to deadly auto collisions.

Aggressive drivers are defined as individuals who operate their motor vehicle in such a way that they endanger other persons or property. The Virginia DMV describes an aggressive driver as one who “speeds, weaves in an out of traffic, doesn't use turn signals and uses ‘hand gestures’ that are less than polite.” Virginia does have an aggressive driving law, however it is difficult to enforce because the language of the law is subjective, making it is difficult to prosecute drivers for being too aggressive on the road.

Seven Signs of an Aggressive Driver

If you want to stay safe on the road, it is best to try and steer clear of drivers who display aggressive behavior. It is also in your best interest to avoid the behaviors below, lest you become an aggressive driver yourself or become involved in an avoidable car crash.

1. Drivers who tailgate, especially if they tailgate one car after another and it seems that nobody can drive fast enough to please them.

2. Drivers who use their horn frequently or for prolonged periods.

3. Drivers who block the passing lane for no apparent reason.

4. Drivers who pass another vehicle and then cut in front of them, leaving little room for safety.

5. Drivers who avoid using turn signals and make quick lane changes or turns with little or no warning.

6. Drivers who use their high beam headlights to “punish” other drivers or flick their high beams to induce other drivers to move out of their way.

7. Drivers who speed and run red lights, stop signs, or ignore other road warnings or markings.

If you encounter an aggressive driver on the road, the best thing you can do is ignore any provocation, avoid engaging them, and get away from the driver as quickly as possible in a safe manner. You have nothing to gain by becoming involved with the aggressive driver, and you could cause the situation to escalate to the point that an accident occurs.

You can report aggressive drivers in Virginia by dialing #77 on your cell phone. Unfortunately, despite your best efforts you could become the victim of a car accident because of the actions of an aggressive driver. To get help with your car accident case, please contact the Northern Virginia law firm Dulaney, Lauer & Thomas today.

DULANEY, LAUER & THOMAS, LLP

Warrenton Office

98 Alexandria Pike, Suite 11

Warrenton, VA 20186

Toll Free: 888.907.2631

Local: 540.349.2631

Culpeper Office

209 N. West Street

Culpeper, VA 22701

Toll Free: 800.741.1012

Local: 540.825.6046