Road rage is unfortunately common on Texas roads. The consequences of a road rage crash can be life-altering. When another driver’s aggressive or reckless actions cause a crash, you may be left with painful injuries, emotional trauma, and costly medical bills.
At Burch Law Firm, we want drivers in New Braunfels and throughout Central Texas to understand their legal rights after a road rage incident causes them harm. This guide offers a clear idea of what constitutes road rage, when you might be entitled to compensation for a road rage accident, and what legal help is available to you.
Understanding Texas Road Rage Laws and Your Legal Rights
In Texas, road rage generally refers to aggressive driving behaviors motivated by anger or frustration. Examples include tailgating, brake-checking, weaving through traffic, cutting off other drivers, or yelling threats from a moving vehicle.
If a driver’s aggressive behaviors cause a crash, they can be held liable for the damage they cause. This means you may pursue a personal injury claim and seek compensation for your injuries.
If you’re wondering how to report road rage in Texas, calling 911 is the best option.
Is Road Rage a Criminal Offense in Texas?
While there are no specific Texas road rage laws, these incidents often involve illegal acts, including:
- Reckless Driving: If someone operates a vehicle in willful disregard for the safety of others, that’s considered reckless driving, a Class B misdemeanor. This can include excessive speeding, running red lights, or tailgating.
- Deadly Conduct: When a driver puts others at substantial risk of serious injury or death by doing things like swerving aggressively or blocking lanes, that may be considered deadly conduct, a Class A misdemeanor that can potentially be escalated to a felony.
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon: In some road rage cases, a vehicle can be considered a deadly weapon if the driver intentionally threatens or harms another person. This is a second-degree felony that can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment.
Filing a Lawsuit After a Road Rage Crash
If you want to pursue a road rage accident claim, be sure to do the following:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. This will ensure your safety and create critical evidence linking your injuries to the accident.
- Contact a Lawyer: An experienced car accident lawyer in New Braunfels can lead you through the legal process of pursuing your case. Contact us as soon as possible so we can advise you on next steps.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, collect witness contact information, preserve all medical records, and keep all related bills, invoices, and receipts.
- Be Careful When Speaking to Insurers: If an insurance company contacts you, never admit fault, never accept quick settlements, avoid recorded statements, and call your lawyer right away.
Why Hire a Car Accident Lawyer in New Braunfels for a Road Rage Case?
Road rage cases can not only be complicated, but they can also become contentious. An experienced road rage lawyer in Texas can help you by:
- Reviewing your case for free
- Investigating the accident
- Gathering evidence
- Handling all insurance company communications
- Assessing the full value of your claim
- Negotiating a fair settlement
- Representing you in court, if necessary
If you’ve suffered injuries in a road rage incident. Burch Law Firm can help. We’ll fight for your rights while you focus on recovery. Contact us today for your free consultation.
