New Jersey drivers have retained a reputation in the tri-state area for being aggressive when behind the wheel. Whether this is true or not, one fact remains clear – drivers across the country engage in tailgating, which is one of the most dangerous practices. Not only does tailgating lead to accidents, but those who engage in this action can face serious consequences. If injured in a collision, Monmouth County auto accident attorneys can help you get the justice you deserve after you sustained injuries due to an aggressive driver.
Why Is Tailgating So Dangerous?
Tailgating is a dangerous activity, also known as “riding a bumper” or “following too closely.” Most often, drivers will tailgate cars that they think are going too slow to intimidate and bully them into switching lanes or speeding up.
This behavior is extremely dangerous, as it minimizes the following distance between cars. As a result, rear-end collisions are common for those who engage in this practice. This is because the aggressive driver is not leaving enough space between the cars, meaning they will not have enough time to break if the car in front of them has to stop suddenly. Similarly, the driver in front may feel nervous due to the aggressive behavior of the other driver, and they may try to switch lanes as quickly as possible. Doing so can lead to a subsequent accident.
How Can I Stay Safe While Driving?
If you are driving and another car tailgates you, there are steps you can take to keep yourself safe while on the road. If you are on a multiple-lane highway, signal your intent to switch lanes and ensure it is safe to do so before changing lanes. This allows the other driver to pass you without further angering them. However, this is not always possible when on a single-lane road. If someone is following at an unsafe distance while driving and you cannot move to the side of the road to let them pass, wait until you can turn into a well-lit parking lot. Until you can safely turn, you should focus on the road in front. Do not try to “brake-check” the other driver, as this may further upset and enrage the other driver.
What Should I Do if I Was Injured in an Accident?
If you were hurt in an accident, taking the proper steps afterward is crucial to protecting your safety. If the other driver rear-ends you after tailgating, do your best to remain calm. An accident is scary and can be made more severe if the other driver is aggressive and angry. Avoid speaking to them until the police arrive, as they will likely be angry and upset. Once the police arrive, you should take photos and videos of the accident. You should also seek medical attention for any injuries you’ve sustained as a result of an aggressive driver.
After you leave the scene of the accident, you will want to contact an attorney as soon as possible. You should receive the compensation you’re entitled to following an accident caused by an aggressive driver. At the Wilton Law Firm, we understand this can be a scary situation and will do everything in our power to help hold the negligent party responsible. Reach out today to discuss the details of your tailgating accident with our dedicated legal team.
