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Road rage accidents on the roads have claimed many lives and left others with serious injuries. Road rage, also known as “aggressive driving,” is a leading cause of these incidents. It involves driving aggressively on the road without regard for the safety of other drivers, pedestrians, or structures.
A road rage accident video involving a car and a construction trailer colliding is circulating on the internet. The video shows a truck driver driving recklessly, which resulted in the accident. Below are the full details of the accident.
Legal Input Concerning the Road Rage Accident
From the video, you will see that the black pickup truck driver made an intentional brake check. The car driver behind me was trying to avoid a collision with the brake checker, which caused him to collide with the construction trailer on the side of the road.
According to the famous TikTok lawyer Ugo Lord, road rage constitutes criminal conduct in the United States. Therefore, not only will the pickup truck be liable for all damages, but it could also be found guilty of road rage, significantly if someone was injured in the accident.
Vehicle Code in California for Road Rage Accidents
There isn’t a specific law in California regarding road rage. However, engaging in road rage violates Vehicle Code 13210 CVC. This code covers any hostile or irrational actions directed at other drivers.
Also, the code allows the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to suspend your license if law enforcement observes you engaging in road rage. Additionally, the penalties for road rage are similar to those for driving under the influence, especially if you injure someone in the process.
Can I Go to Prison for a Road Rage Accident?
Yes, the correct answer is yes, but it all depends on the type of road rage you get into. For example, if you are in a hurry to get somewhere and trying to enter a lane, but there is a car in front of you.
You can become angry at the driver in front of you, believing they are blocking you intentionally, which can lead to road rage accidents. Depending on the circumstances, you can face charges for:
Driving Recklessly
According to Vehicle Code 23103 VC, it is illegal for you to drive carelessly and neglect the following:
- Safety of others and
- Security of property owned by others
Driving recklessly, which demonstrates a disregard for others’ safety, is a misdemeanor that can result in up to ninety days in jail. Additionally, you can face fines of up to $1000 for a potential road rage accident.
Battery
If you hit someone or use force against them during a road rage incident, you can face charges of battery. If found guilty, the punishment for battery is:
- A $2,000 fine
- The maximum sentence is six months in county jail. If the battery results in significant physical injuries, the sanctions might be harsher.
And if you are the victim of a road rage accident, you should talk to a lawyer at once.
Defacement
Road rage accidents in which drivers damage or destroy other people’s property are common. In some cases, angry drivers leave their vehicles to damage their own. The punishment for defacement or vandalism depends on the magnitude of the damage.
If you are the perpetrator, you may receive a misdemeanor charge. You can also face up to six months in jail if the damage is less than $400. However, the offense becomes a felony with a maximum three-year jail sentence if the damage exceeds $400. If you are the victim, you have the option to sue.
Conclusion
Most of the time, road rage accidents occur when dealing with frustrations. You become angry and transfer your aggression to others. Therefore, you should be mindful of how you talk and drive on the road, as someone can sue you.
You should also know that you can face charges for hit-and-run incidents during road rage. If someone yells or threatens you on the road, inform the police and your lawyer.