Many West Virginia motorists have likely heard of notorious road rage incidents even if they have never had an encounter with an aggressive driver themselves. In fact, authorities report that aggressive driving is a major cause of automobile accidents in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, people are driving aggressively when they put the lives or property of others at risk by engaging in a succession of moving vehicle violations.

In 2009, the American Automobile Association conducted a study using NHTSA’s Fatal Accident Report System in an effort to pinpoint aggressive driving behaviors that contributed to fatal crashes. The study found that aggressive driving contributed to 56 percent of fatal traffic accidents from 2003 through 2007.

A 2014 NHTSA study revealed speeding as the leading cause of fatal crashes, accounting for 18.8 percent of fatalities for motorists and motorcyclists. Driving under the influence and distracted driving was responsible for 12.3 percent and 6.7 percent of fatalities, respectively. Other aggressive driving behaviors listed in the NHTSA report included illegal passing and lane changes, following other vehicles too closely, and making improper turns.

In the aftermath of a car accident in which aggressive driving is implicated, those involved may face many new life challenges arising from the injuries they suffer. When they are temporarily or permanently disabled, their economic health could also be negatively impacted if they are not able to return to work.

People who have been injured due to aggressive or negligent driving on the part of another motorist may want to meet with an attorney to discuss their options. One of them could be to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver seeking compensation for medical bills and other applicable losses.