Arizona’s Aggressive Driving Laws

Aggressive drivers often commit intentional and reckless actions which can involve a combination of moving traffic offenses. If you were injured in an accident with an aggressive driver, it’s essential to seek legal advice promptly. A Phoenix personal injury lawyer will protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve for your losses. Read on to learn what the legal definition of aggressive driving is as well as the potential consequences.

What Is Aggressive Driving?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that aggressive driving occurs when “an individual commits a combination of moving traffic offenses so as to endanger other persons or property”. Aggressive driving refers to a set of behaviors exhibited by motorists who engage in dangerous and reckless actions, posing a threat to themselves and others on the road.

It goes beyond the occasional mistake or oversight and involves intentional actions that can lead to accidents and increased road hazards. Recognizing aggressive driving is crucial for both law enforcement and fellow drivers to promote road safety and prevent potential accidents.

Behaviors that are typically associated with aggressive driving include:

Excessive Speed – Driving above the speed limit or too fast for road conditions is a common aggressive driving behavior. It not only endangers the speeding driver but also puts other road users at risk.

Tailgating – Following other vehicles too closely is a dangerous behavior that can lead to rear-end collisions. 

Cutting Off Other Drivers – Abruptly changing lanes in front of another vehicle without proper signaling is a form of aggressive driving.

Disregard for Traffic Lights or Signals – Running red lights or ignoring other traffic signs poses a significant risk to intersection safety and is considered aggressive driving. Ensure you follow traffic laws and always use your turn signals to communicate your intentions to others on the road.

Brake Checking – Intentionally slamming on the brakes to force the following driver to stop abruptly is a form of aggressive driving that can result in rear-end crashes.

Weaving in and Out of Traffic – Erratic lane changes and weaving between vehicles without proper signaling or caution.

Blocking Cars Attempting to Pass or Change Lanes – Intentionally preventing other vehicles from passing or changing lanes can escalate tensions on the road and lead to dangerous situations.

Failure to Yield –Refusing to yield the right of way when required can result in accidents and is considered an aggressive driving behavior.

Does Arizona Have Aggressive Driving Laws?

Arizona is one of 11 states with specific laws that target aggressive driving. Arizona defines aggressive driving as speeding and committing at least 2 of the following moving violations:

• Failure to obey a traffic control device
• Passing on the right out of regular lanes of traffic
• Unsafe lane changes
• Following too closely
• Failing to yield right-of-way

What is the Difference Between Aggressive Driving and Road Rage?

Driving aggressively differs from road rage. Road rage is a criminal offense that occurs when the operator or passenger of a motor vehicle commits an assault on another driver or passenger. The assault is typically precipitated by an incident that occurred on the roadway and may involve other dangerous or deadly weapons.

Aggressive Driving Penalties

Arizona imposes penalties for aggressive driving to discourage motorists from engaging in dangerous behaviors. The severity of penalties may vary depending on the nature and consequences of the aggressive driving act. Penalties for driving aggressively in Arizona may include:

• Jail time up to 180 days.
• Aggressive driving violations can result in monetary fines, the amount of which may vary based on the specific offense.
• Convictions for driving aggressively may lead to the accumulation of points on the driver’s license. The accumulation of points can have consequences such as license suspension or increased insurance premiums.
• Individuals charged with aggressive driving may be required to attend traffic school as part of their penalty.
• Repeat offenders or those involved in severe aggressive driving incidents may face a 30-day license suspension or a 1 revocation if this is their second conviction within a year.
• Aggressive driving that results in serious injuries or fatalities may lead to criminal charges.

What to Do If You See Aggressive Drivers

Encountering aggressive drivers on the road can be unsettling, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself and others:

Maintain Distance: Keep a safe distance from the other driver to avoid becoming a target or getting involved in their reckless actions.

Do Not Engage: Avoid responding to aggressive behavior with aggression. Stay calm and focused on your driving.

Call the Authorities: If you witness such behavior, report it to the local police. Provide a description of the vehicle, location, and any other relevant details.

Use Caution: Be vigilant and anticipate the potential actions of aggressive drivers. Stay aware of your surroundings and be prepared to drive defensively.

Seek Safe Locations: If you feel threatened, consider changing your route or pulling over to a safe location. Do not escalate the situation by engaging in confrontations.

By taking these measures, you contribute to promoting safer roadways and may help prevent aggressive driving incidents from escalating into accidents.

What Compensation Can I Recover in an Accident With an Aggressive Driver?

If you’ve been involved in an accident with an aggressive driver, you may be entitled to compensation for damages and injuries. Compensation can vary depending on the circumstances of the accident and the extent of your losses. Potential compensation may include:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for medical bills related to injuries sustained in the accident, including hospital stays, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
• Property Damage: Compensation for the repair or replacement of your vehicle and any other damaged property.
• Lost Wages: If you had to miss work to recover from the injuries you sustained in the accident, you may be able to recover compensation for lost income.
• Pain and Suffering: These damages can include compensation for physical pain, emotional trauma, mental distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Wrongful Death: If you lost a loved one in an aggressive driving accident caused by another person’s wrongful act, you may be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional distress.

It’s best to consult with an experienced car accident attorney who can help you calculate the potential value of your claim. A Phoenix personal injury attorney will fight to protect your rights and maximize your compensation.

Contact an Experienced Auto Accident Attorney Today

If you’ve been involved in an accident with an aggressive driver, seeking legal advice is crucial to understanding your rights and pursuing the compensation you deserve. At Alpha Accident Lawyers, we are dedicated to helping auto accident victims obtain justice. We maintain a 99% success rate and have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients. Call us today to schedule a free consultation.
 
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