Atlanta
Road Rage Accident Lawyer

Road rage is a common problem in Atlanta and elsewhere, with many drivers becoming hostile on the roads. Refusing to let someone into your lane or accidentally cutting them off sometimes triggers extreme reactions. These incidents can escalate quickly and lead to devastating injuries.

If someone else caused your accident, either intentionally or due to recklessness, you deserve justice. When pursuing compensation after a road rage incident in northwestern Georgia, it’s crucial to consult with an Atlanta road rage accident lawyer who knows how to handle these cases.

An Atlanta car accident lawyer from John Foy & Associates can help you navigate the legal process, gather evidence, and fight for a fair settlement or court award. Contact us now for a free consultation.

Defining Road Rage

Road rage refers to aggressive driving behaviors stemming from confrontations or disagreements with other motorists. It typically involves deliberate hostile actions in response to perceived offenses by another driver.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) differentiates road rage from aggressive driving, describing it as “intentional criminal misconduct.” The perpetrator makes a conscious choice to threaten others’ safety in response to frustration behind the wheel.

As experienced Atlanta road rage accident attorneys, John Foy & Associates can assist you in pursuing compensation for injuries and damages suffered when another driver’s anger leads to a crash. 

What To Do After a Road Rage Accident

Knowing how to respond appropriately after a road rage accident is crucial. Staying calm and taking the right steps can help ensure everyone’s safety and allow any legal issues to be properly addressed.

Here are some important steps to take:

• Assess the situation and call 911: Make sure you are in a safe location, turn on your hazard lights, and call 911 immediately. 
• Avoid confrontation: Do not engage in confrontations with the other driver, especially if they are aggressive. Limit communication to essential information, avoiding unnecessary discussions. If the other driver is hostile, the police can help you exchange information with them. 
• Document the scene: Write down the other driver’s license plate number and a description of their vehicle in case they flee the scene. If you are physically able, get contact information for any witnesses. Take photos of damage, skid marks, injuries, and the position of the vehicles.
• Talk to the police: Provide an accurate and concise account of what transpired. The police report will serve as crucial evidence in your personal injury case.
• Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t feel hurt, you may have injuries that don’t show up until later. Get checked out by a doctor.
• Contact your insurance company: Notify your insurance provider about the accident and that it resulted from road rage. Provide factual information and documentation. Do not provide a statement to the other party’s insurer without talking to a lawyer first.
• Seek legal counsel: If a serious accident is the result of someone else’s carelessness, recklessness, or aggression, one of our attorneys can help you pursue damages. We offer free consultations, and you pay nothing unless we win.

What you do in the aftermath of a road rage accident can make a big difference in how issues like fault and compensation are determined. Focus on safety first, documentation second, and leave the interpretation to the professionals.

Georgia Laws and Penalties Related to Road Rage

While Georgia statutes do not specifically mention “road rage,” these aggressive and reckless behaviors are generally prosecuted under the state’s laws pertaining to aggressive driving offenses. Victims who suffer harm due to another driver’s actions may also pursue damages through civil lawsuits.

Georgia Code § 40-6-397 outlines that aggressively operating a vehicle with intent to harass, intimidate, injure, or obstruct another driver constitutes an offense. Essentially, any hostile actions meant to threaten or harm others on the roadway are considered criminal misconduct.

Additional legal provisions in Georgia allow for punitive damages in civil injury claims when aggravating circumstances are present. Road rage incidents are prime examples of cases where punitive damages may be pursued in addition to compensation for actual losses.

Potential Damages in a Road Rage Accident Claim

Injured victims can pursue various damages through personal injury claims. Possible damages to recover in a road rage accident claim include the following:

• Medical expenses to treat crash-related injuries, both current and future projected costs
• Repair or replacement expenses for any damaged or totaled vehicle
• Lost income due to missed work during recovery
• Compensation for pain, suffering, and emotional trauma
• Diminished quality of life and lost enjoyment
• Punitive damages to punish and deter egregious behavior

Successful cases not only provide compensation for the plaintiff’s losses but also deter dangerous driving behaviors that threaten public safety. 

In addition to civil damages, the at-fault driver may face fines, misdemeanor charges, or even imprisonment for road rage crimes under Georgia law.

Contact a Road Rage Accident Lawyer in Atlanta

A road rage incident can cause significant physical injuries and emotional trauma. John Foy & Associates provides strong legal advocacy for innocent victims harmed by other drivers. We can handle every aspect of your case while you focus on healing.

Don’t let a dangerous driver escape responsibility. We can thoroughly investigate the incident, gather evidence of the aggressive driver’s liability, and fight for maximum compensation through settlement or trial. 

With an experienced Atlanta road rage accident lawyer on your side, you can be confident justice will be served. Contact us now for a free consultation.