Between problems caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and concerns raised by recent protests in Portland, many people are angry and experiencing greater amounts of stress. This can cause them to act out in dangerous ways. Traffic safety experts report that aggressive driving appears to be on the increase and is resulting in a higher incidence of car accidents and injuries. As a driver, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers and common types of behavior that can put you and your passengers at risk.
Aggressive Driving an Increasingly Common Problem
Concerns over health problems, job losses, and other issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic have dominated headlines and people’s thoughts for the past six months. Recently, the general anxiety level of the public only got worse as repeated incidents of police abuses and overreach prompted protests in Portland and across the country. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the accumulated stress of these events is negatively impacting people’s behavior, including their actions while behind the wheel.
Stress caused by the pandemic as well as local and national events is taking a toll on people’s moods. Aggressive driving behavior is becoming more common, making car accidents more likely to happen. Unfortunately, serious and potentially life-threatening injuries often occur as a result. The NIH reports that there has been a nearly 15 percent increase in fatal car crashes since the pandemic started in March 2020.
Avoiding Behaviors that Increase Your Car Accident Risks
It is important to be aware of how recent events are impacting your mental health, thought processes, and behavior. Pay particular attention to your attitude behind the wheel. Taking your anxiety or anger out on other drivers is something you want to avoid. Even under normal circumstances, aggressive driving is a major problem and a leading cause of car accidents and injuries.
During these difficult times, make an effort at being considerate of others. The American Automobile Association (AAA) warns that all motorists need to be vigilant in avoiding common aggressive driving behaviors such as the following:
- Speeding and going too fast for conditions;
- Racing to get ahead of others in heavy traffic;
- Tailgating and not giving other motorists adequate space;
- Cutting them off when passing or making turns;
- Failing to yield at traffic signs and signals;
- Weaving in and out of traffic or otherwise behaving in an aggressive manner.
If another driver behaves aggressively towards you, the safest move is simply to ignore them and not engage. If you feel your safety or that of other motorists is in jeopardy, make note of their license plate number, pull over to a safe location, and notify the proper authorities.
Let Us Help You Today
At the Johnston Law Firm P.C., we hold at-fault drivers accountable when you suffer car accident injuries. To get the professional legal guidance you need in filing a claim, call (503) 546-3167 or contact our Portland car accident attorneys online and request a consultation today.