Vehicle accidents occur due to a wide variety of reasons, including aggressive driving behaviors. If you or a loved one have been harmed due to an aggressive driver on the roadways of Arizona, we encourage you to reach out to a car accident lawyer in Phoenix who can help you recover compensation for your losses. These claims can get complicated, particularly when it comes to actually proving the incident was caused by someone else’s aggressive driving. Let an attorney examine your claim promptly and get started today.
What is Aggressive Driving?
Aggressive driving is defined as operating a vehicle in a manner that endangers other individuals or property. It is more than just speeding or driving recklessly; aggressive driving often involves a combination of dangerous behaviors that create hazardous conditions on the road. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), aggressive driving can include:
- Speeding
- Tailgating (following too closely)
- Erratic lane changes
- Failing to yield the right-of-way
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Making unsafe or illegal turns
Aggressive driving can quickly escalate into road rage, which is when a driver’s anger leads to violent actions, such as intentionally hitting another vehicle or engaging in physical confrontations with other drivers.
Arizona’s Aggressive Driving Laws
Arizona takes aggressive driving seriously, and the state has laws specifically addressing this dangerous behavior. Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS) § 28-695 defines aggressive driving as a situation in which a driver commits two or more traffic violations—such as speeding, unsafe lane changes, or tailgating—while endangering another person or vehicle.
In addition to aggressive driving, Arizona also has laws against reckless driving (ARS § 28-693), which is defined as driving with a “willful disregard for the safety of others.” Both aggressive and reckless driving are criminal offenses in Arizona
Proving Liability in an Aggressive Driving Accident
Proving that an accident was caused by aggressive driving can be challenging, but it is essential to building a successful injury claim. In many cases, it will be necessary to show that the other driver’s reckless or dangerous behavior directly led to the accident. Some key types of evidence that can help establish liability include:
- Witness statements. Eyewitnesses who saw the aggressive driving behaviors leading up to the accident can provide valuable testimony to support your claim.
- Police reports. If law enforcement came to the crash scene, the police report may include details about the other driver’s actions, such as speeding or running a red light. The officer may also cite the driver for aggressive or reckless driving.
- Traffic camera footage. In some cases, traffic cameras or surveillance footage from homes or nearby businesses may have captured the accident, providing clear evidence of the other driver’s aggressive behavior.
- Expert testimony. Accident reconstruction experts can analyze the crash and determine how the other driver’s actions contributed to the collision.
Compensation Available for Aggressive Driving Accident Victims
If you have been injured in an aggressive driving collision in AZ, you may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including coverage for:
- Medical expenses. This includes the total costs of emergency care, surgeries, medications (prescription and OTC), therapy and rehabilitation, and any future medical treatment related to your injuries.
- Lost wages. If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for the income you lost during your recovery, as well as any future loss of earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering. Victims of aggressive driving crashes may be entitled to compensation for the pain and suffering (physical and emotional) that the injuries inflict.
- Property damage. You can recover compensation for vehicle repair or replacement, as well as money for other property damaged in the crash.
Contact an Arizona Car Accident Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an aggressive driving accident in Arizona, it is crucial to take legal action as soon as possible. These cases can be complex, and gathering the necessary evidence to prove liability requires prompt attention. At Sargon Law Group, our experienced car accident attorneys are here to help. Reach out to us by filling out our contact form or calling (623) 552-2571 for a free consultation with our Phoenix injury lawyer.