We’ve all seen it. Someone getting angry behind the wheel and showing aggressive tendencies. This is know as road rage. The legal definition is:
“An assault with a motor vehicle or other dangerous weapon by the operator or passenger(s) of another motor vehicle or an assault precipitated by an incident that occurred on a roadway.”
Road rage can lead to disastrous events. Not only is it intimidating to the other driver, injuries can occur. Some of the most common injuries from road rage include:
- Mental trauma
- Physical injury
- Damage to vehicle
- Death
Road rage can include, but is not limited to, hanging out the car window and shouting, harassing nearby vehicles or pedestrians, showing discrimination to others, physical altercations, running a vehicle off the road, slamming into a vehicle, using foul language and issuing threats.
Here are the important factors you need to know about road rage in Arizona and if you have a case:
Is Road Rage Illegal?
First you may be wondering if road rage is illegal in Arizona. Road rage is not illegal in terms of the law. However, the direct results of road rage can be illegal. Here are some examples:
Assault with a Deadly Weapon
It is possible the person engaging in road rage has a weapon. This weapon can be used against the innocent party and can cause maximum damage. The vehicle itself can be considered a weapon if used to injury the other driver or pedestrian.
This type of assault, also known as aggravated assault, can carry up to a 15 year prison sentence for first time offenders. It is considered a Class 2 to Class 5 felony.
Assault and Battery
Arizona has strict laws regarding assault and battery. Assault and battery in Arizona is when anyone intentionally or recklessly causes physical injury to another. It also includes the imminent threat of causing physical injury.
Road rage can lead a person to exit their vehicle with the intention to fight. If the fight occurs, an assault charge can be filed. It can be classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor and up to a Class 5 felony. Prison is a likely outcome if convicted.
Do You Have a Road Rage Case?
If you were involved in a road rage incident, you may have a case. If you sustained an injury as a direct result of another’s actions, it can be considered assault. Contact a reputable road rage attorney in Arizona today to discuss the matters of your claim.
A reputable attorney will gather the necessary evidence and will successfully apply the local, state and federal laws to your claim. An Arizona personal injury attorney will fight for your rights and hold the wrongdoer accountable for your injuries.
David Klink is a well-known personal injury attorney in Arizona. He has won many cases involving road rage accidents and prides himself in obtaining justice for the innocent. Call him today to discuss your case!
