Road Rage Leads to Crash, Criminal Charges
Road rage is a serious issue that can lead to injuries and fatalities. Fortunately, a recent road rage incident in Florida did not lead to serious injuries.
A shooting and crash in Bradenton was caused by road rage. Two people are now facing criminal charges.
On the afternoon of June 2, the driver of a Jeep Compass, a 33-year-old man, was waiting to turn left from a parking lot when the driver of a Buick sedan turned left into the lot, in front of the Jeep driver. The Buick driver parked and the Jeep driver backed up to confront the other driver about not using a turn signal.
The Buick driver and a teenage passenger exited the Buick. The Jeep driver then said that the other driver showed him a gun during the confrontation. Surveillance video shows the Jeep driver trying to drive away several times, but then he stops and continues arguing with another driver.
In the “final confrontation,” the Jeep driver accelerated toward the other driver. The Jeep hit a stop sign and tree before hitting the Buick driver in the leg. The Buick passenger, a 16-year-old boy, then retrieved a gun and fired it into the Jeep. This incident occurred at 101 Riverfront Boulevard.
The three involved were detained by police shortly afterward. The Jeep driver was charged with aggravated battery with a motor vehicle. The teenage Buick passenger was charged with aggravated assault with a firearm. Charges are pending against the Buick driver, but he may not be charged because detectives confirmed he legally owns the firearm he had with him. He was not seriously injured in the accident. Police are continuing to investigate.
Dealing With Road Rage
Road rage is aggressive or violent behavior stemming from a driver’s uncontrolled anger or frustration behind the wheel. It involves deliberate actions meant to intimidate, provoke, or harm others on the road.
Staying calm behind the wheel is crucial for your safety and the safety of others. Road rage can escalate quickly, so managing your emotions while driving is key. Here are practical tips to help you stay calm:
- Leave early. Give yourself extra time to reach your destination so you’re not stressed about being late.
- Plan your route. Knowing where you’re going reduces frustration from getting lost or making sudden lane changes.
- Set the mood. Play calming music. Avoid talk radio or anything that might agitate you. Try a podcast you enjoy.
- Practice deep breathing. Take slow, deep breaths when you feel tension rising.
- Use the “three-second rule.” Maintain a safe following distance to avoid tailgating and sudden stops.
- Avoid eye contact and gestures. Don’t escalate tension by engaging with aggressive drivers.
- Reframe your mindset. Treat driving as a time to decompress, not compete.
Contact Us Today
It’s important to stay safe while on the roadway. Avoid engaging in aggressive behavior that can lead to dangerous confrontations and possible injuries.
Even minor crashes can cause long-term effects. You don’t have to go through this alone. See how a Bradenton car accident lawyer from Cahall Law Firm can assist you. To schedule a consultation, call (941) 281-2019 or fill out the online form.
Source:
foxnews.com/us/florida-man-violently-hit-suv-police-say-road-rage-sparked-incident
