Road rage is very common and if you drive a motor vehicle in Ontario, you have likely been confronted with it.

Road rage is used to describe aggressive or violent behaviour caused by stress and frustration behind the wheel of a motor vehicle, especially in difficult driving conditions or traffic congestion. Some common signs of road rage are exhibited in excessive speeding, tailgating, honking and in worse cases verbal insults and physical assault. Research shows that excessive speeding increases the risk of a crash, playing a significant role in road fatalities. According to the Traffic Injury Research Foundation’s (TIRF) most recent Road Safety Monitor, 3000 people in Canada were seriously injured due to speed-related collisions. Road rage not only endangers the driver who is experiencing it, but puts other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians at risk. 

It is important for drivers to recognize the signs of road rage and take steps to avoid engaging in it by staying calm, being patient, and practicing defensive driving techniques.

What To Do If You Are Confronted By Road Rage

• Don’t engage and remain calm;
• Let the angry driver pass, if possible;
• Avoid eye contact;
• Stay in your car, put the windows up, lock your doors; and
• If the situation persists or if they begin to follow you, don’t go home, seek a safe place, like a police or fire station and call 9-1-1.

If it happens that you’re a victim of road rage and got injured in an accident, be sure to contact Gosai Law as soon as possible at (905) 595-2225 or info@gosailaw.com so we can assist you in finding the best resolution for you.

For further insight, review our quick tips on What to Do After a Car Accident: 12 Helpful Steps.