Aggressive Driving Accidents

Aggressive drivers injure thousands of motorists, pedestrians, and passengers each year. Knoxville car accident lawyer Mark C. Hartsoe can help you if you or a loved one was injured by an aggressive driver. Mr. Hartsoe has over 25 years of experience helping car accident victims recover compensation for their injuries. He can provide the legal counseling and guidance you need in your auto accident case. Call the Hartsoe Law Firm today to discuss how we can help you.

Aggressive driving is a major cause of motor vehicle accidents in the U.S. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding was a factor in nearly 30 percent of fatal crashes in 2011, and cost 9,944 lives. The annual economic cost of speed-related accidents is estimated to be over $40 billion.

There are several reasons why a motorist may drive aggressively on the road. The National Safety Council cites the following reasons for an increase in aggressive driving incidences:

• Irresponsible driving behavior. Drivers focus on their own needs, and do not share the road responsibly with other motorists and pedestrians. For example, a driver may disregard traffic signs and signals, or fail to yield in an effort to quickly reach a destination.
• Reduced traffic enforcement. Budget cut-backs have reduced the level of traffic enforcement in some areas, which means motorists may not think they will get caught for a traffic violation.
• Increased travel and congestion. While the number of miles driven over the last 30 years has increased, the actual number of miles of available road has not kept pace. As a result, many drivers find themselves driving aggressively out of frustration in traffic-heavy areas.

Aggressive drivers should be held responsible for the accidents and injuries they cause. Aggressive driving includes a number of reckless driving behaviors that violate the basic rules of the road in Tennessee. They include:

• Speeding
• Frequent and unnecessary lane changes
• Tailgating
• Running stop signs or red lights
• Failure to yield

Under Tennessee Law, motorists must share the road with other drivers, motorcyclists, bicyclists, and be vigilant with pedestrians as well. Drivers must exercise care when they operate their vehicles. A driver that speeds, tailgates, or otherwise engages in driving that is aggressive violates Tennessee’s requirement to exercise care and share the road responsibly. If an accident results from aggressive driving, the at-fault driver can be held responsible for any injuries they cause as a result of their reckless behavior.

Aggressive driving accidents can cause a number of serious injuries or the loss of a loved one’s life. If you were injured by an aggressive driver, you can file a personal injury suit against the driver. You can seek damages to potentially recover your medical costs, lost income, property damage, and any pain and suffering you endured as a result of the accident.

Aggressive driving is a factor in many car accident fatalities, with many people losing their lives as a result of aggressive driving accidents. If your relative died in a car accident caused by an aggressive driver, Tennessee law allows you to file a wrongful death suit against the driver. You can seek to recover for your loved one’s pain and suffering, medical costs, funeral and burial expenses, and loss of consortium.

Knoxville personal injury attorney Mark C. Hartsoe can provide you with the legal guidance and advocacy you need in your aggressive driving case. With his years of experience in the area, Mr. Hartsoe can effectively negotiate settlements and skillfully advocate for you in the courtroom. He will canvas the accident scene, interview witnesses and experts, and deal with the insurance companies to help you recover for your injuries. Speak with us today at 865-804-1011 or contact us online for a free consultation.