Driving in Arkansas has its challenges, but a recent report from ConsumerAffairs reveals a more concerning trend. The state ranks among the top five nationwide for road rage incidents. The data underscores the heightened risk of car accidents linked to aggressive driving on the roads. When drivers behave poorly behind the wheel, they can cause crashes that result in serious injuries to victims.
ConsumerAffairs’ analysis looked at various factors, including rates of careless driving tickets, speeding, accidents, deaths, and traffic incidents related to gun violence, to determine the states with the most reckless drivers. Arkansas stood out due to its high percentage of fatal crashes caused by aggressive or careless driving.
Louisiana topped the list with 62 percent of its collisions involving aggressive driving, and a fatality rate of 11.55 deadly crashes per 100,000 residents. However, Arkansas was not far behind, highlighting the risks drivers and pedestrians may face on the roads. The state had 11.92 fatal crashes per 100,000 residents, and 62.3 percent of accidents were attributed to aggressive driving.
Despite ranking high in aggressive driving-related accidents, Arkansas has relatively low incidents of road rage involving firearms, with a score of just 0.10 per 100,000 residents. Nevertheless, the state’s elevated rates of deadly crashes due to aggressive driving remain a cause for concern. While the recent rise in traffic deaths is not limited to Arkansas, it highlights the need for increased awareness when behind the wheel of a car.
Aggressive driving such as speeding, tailgating, and erratic lane changes are common causes of car accidents. These negligent behaviors create unpredictable situations on the road, increasing the likelihood of collisions. For example, speeding reduces the driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions, while tailgating leaves no room for error if the vehicle ahead stops abruptly. Erratic lane changes can surprise other drivers, leading to swerving and potential crashes.
Road rage, a severe form of aggressive driving, can escalate these risks. When a driver reacts violently to perceived slights or frustrations, their focus shifts from driving safely to retaliating against other motorists. This can result in intentional collisions, forcing other vehicles off the road, or causing multi-car pileups. The emotional intensity of road rage often impairs judgment, making these incidents particularly dangerous.
Negligence plays a crucial role in many car accidents involving aggressive driving. A negligent driver is someone who fails to follow traffic laws or operate their vehicle safely. Aggressive driving behaviors are clear examples of negligence. Speeding, for instance, not only violates traffic regulations but also endangers everyone on the road. Similarly, reckless maneuvers like tailgating or cutting off other vehicles demonstrate a blatant disregard for safety.
Even if you are engaging in safe driving behaviors, there is no way to control the actions of others who share the road. When car accidents occur due to negligence, the responsible driver can be held liable for the resulting damages. Crash victims may suffer from severe injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens due to medical bills and lost wages.
Common car accident injuries include whiplash, broken bones, concussions, burns, internal organ damage, facial injuries, crush injuries, lacerations, and road rash, to name a few. Certain injuries may require extensive long-term treatment or multiple surgeries, the costs of which can quickly add up. You should not have to pay out of your own pocket when you have been injured due to someone else’s carelessness.
Pursuing a personal injury claim allows you to seek compensation for these losses and hold the negligent driver accountable for their aggressive driving. Working with an experienced Arkansas personal injury lawyer can help you recover the maximum damages possible for your car accident claim. Due to the strict time limits involved with taking legal action, it is a good idea to consult an attorney as soon as possible.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to an aggressive driving incident, consider seeking legal counsel to understand your rights. The Law Office of Jason M. Hatfield is dedicated to helping car accident victims in Arkansas obtain the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation. Call (479) 361-3575 or use our online form for a free case review.