Aggressive drivers are a menace to Atlanta highways and roads. Knowing what constitutes aggressive driving and how to report aggressive drivers can help save lives.
What should you do if you encounter an aggressive driver?
First, and most importantly, do not engage with the aggressive driver. To get dangerous drivers off the road in Atlanta, use the resources available. Call 911 or *GSP on your phone to reach the police.
Do not worry that law enforcement will not take your call seriously. This issue is so important to Georgia law enforcement that it created the H.E.A.T. campaign to stop aggressive and impaired drivers.
Note: Only call when it is safe to do so. Pull over if necessary.
What information will be helpful to the police?
Attempt to safely gather as much information as possible, including:
- Location of vehicle, direction the vehicle is headed (nearest cross street would be helpful)
- Make and model of the vehicle (year if known)
- Color of vehicle
- Description of the behaviors exhibited
- License plate number
Again, be sure to do this safely; if you are too focused on gathering information, you could endanger your life and the lives of others around you. If you are riding with a passenger, she can gather this information and call law enforcement so you can keep your focus on the road where it belongs.
We cannot say it enough – under no circumstances should you try to engage with the aggressive driver directly or get in their way. Do not follow them to gather this information. This can be life threatening.
Law enforcement will handle these drivers. All you need to do is report them. Stop them before they hurt someone.
So, what exactly is aggressive driving?
O.C.G.A. § 40-6-397 defines aggressive driving as any operation of a motor vehicle "with the intent to annoy, harass, molest, intimidate, injure, or obstruct another person" and categorizes it as a misdemeanor of an aggravated nature. Penalties for violating this provision could include up to 12 months of imprisonment, $5,000 in fines, and six points on the driver's license.
Aggressive driving includes:
- Driving while impaired
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Failing to yield
- Failing to stop completely
- Following too closely or not giving enough distance when stopping
- Not using turn signals
- Sudden braking
- Racing or threatening to race
- Rapid lane changing
- Passing in a no passing area
- Pulling in front of another car to cut someone off
Reckless Driving Accident Victims Should Know Their Rights
These behaviors are not only dangerous – they are illegal. If you or someone you care about suffered injuries in an accident caused by an aggressive driver, speak to an Atlanta car accident lawyer from the Law Office of Jason R. Schultz, P.C. Contact us today at 404-474-0804.