Top Tips for Those Involved in a Road Rage Incident

In Las Vegas in April 2022, a road rage incident left one man dead. According to U.S. News & World Report, two men in two different cars got into a verbal argument while stopped at a red light at the intersection of Flamingo Road and South Jones Boulevard. They left their cars, got into a fistfight, and then one man shot the other. The victim drove himself to two different hospitals before passing away.

At this time, the authorities have not announced what charges the alleged gunman will face. If you face road rage charges, our road rage defense lawyer Las Vegas with De Castroverde Criminal & Immigration Lawyers may be able to help.

What ConsCar Accidenttitutes Road Rage?

This is an extreme and tragic case of what people commonly call “road rage.” While we’ve all probably been involved in a heated moment behind the wheel, the repercussions can be costly. Nevada defines aggressive driving in NRS 484B.650 as doing a combination of the following acts, in any order, during any single, continuous period of driving one mile:

  • Speeding
  • Failing to obey a traffic control device
  • Passing another vehicle on the right by driving off the paved portion
  • Improper or unsafe driving on a highway that has marked lanes
  • Following too closely
  • Failing to yield
  • Creating a hazard to another person or vehicle

Penalties for aggressive driving are nothing to wave off either. Penalties include:

  • First offense: A fine of not less than $250 but not more than $1,000 or the fine plus not more than six months in the county jail
  • Second offense: A fine of not less than $1,000 but not more than $1,500 or the fine plus not more than six months in the county jail
  • Third and subsequent offenses: A fine of not less than $1,500 but not more than $2,000 or the fine plus not more than six months in the county jail

The judge can also order violators to complete a traffic safety course at their own expense, suspend their driver’s license for up to one year, or completely revoke driving privileges. Beyond this, though, are far steeper charges. In some cases, like the recent one out of Las Vegas, defendants can face serious criminal charges, including assault, harassment, and weapons offenses. Your criminal defense attorney in Las Vegas can help you understand the charges and penalties you may face.

These offenses can end in much harsher penalties, including years in jail, thousands in penalties and felony charges on the defendant’s record. Fleeing the scene of an incident such as these can also steepen penalties. In Nevada, state law (NRS 484E.010) dictates that motorists involved in a crash have to stop to swap information and help others involved if they are injured.

Not doing so will result in a hit-and-run charge, which, at its most severe, can end in anywhere from 2 to 20 years in prison and fines from $2,000 to $5,000. Your road rage defense lawyer Las Vegas will work hard to get you the lightest penalty.

What To Do if You Lose Your Temper on the Road

It is easy to lose your temper on the road. We’ve all been cut off, stuck in traffic, tailgated, and more. If you are late to an appointment or coming home after a frustrating day at work, these annoyances may feel like the last straw. But before you vent your frustrations on another driver, even one who is driving you crazy, try these tips:

  • Calm down: Take a deep breath, count to ten, or do whatever else it takes to slow your heart and calm your body. When you are calm, you are less likely to react rashly and do something you may regret later.
  • Do not antagonize the other driver: Do not honk, tailgate, swear, or give the other driver the finger. Bothering the other driver will only make the situation worse. Give him-and yourself-some space.
  • Think from the other driver’s perspective: It might feel like the other driver is trying his best to bug you, but there are many other reasonable explanations for his behavior. He may be late or lost, but he is probably not trying to ruin your day.

Remember, there are harsh penalties for road rage. Do your best to stay in your own car and avoid interacting with other drivers. Let the situation pass and move on with your day.

What To Do if You Are a Victim of Road Rage

Being the victim of road rage is a terrifying experience. If someone is threatening you with their vehicle, take these steps to protect yourself:

  • Stay in your car: Getting out of your car increases the chances of an altercation. Some people may view it as a threat or an opportunity to fight. The best way to avoid a physical interaction is to stay in your car.
  • Stay away from the other driver: Try to disengage by keeping your car away from erratic drivers who are speeding, tailgating, or weaving in and out of traffic. Do not try to speed away, because they might take that as an invitation to race. Just try to allow some distance between your car and theirs.
  • Do not engage the other driver: Do not respond to road rage by yelling, swearing, giving the finger, tailgating, or any other negative behaviors. You will only make things worse.
  • Get to a police station: If you feel threatened and you know where the nearest police station is, drive there. Most angry drivers will drive away when you pull in. You can report the incident if necessary.

What Do I Do if I’ve Been Charged in a Road Rage Incident?

If you’ve found yourself in a situation where you’re facing aggressive driving or a similar criminal offense, be sure to enlist the help of an experienced Nevada criminal defense attorney. An advocate who knows the laws and knows how the court system operates, especially with regard to road rage and aggressive driving incidents, will provide you the best chance possible for a favorable outcome.

Your Vegas road rage defense lawyer at De Castroverde Criminal & Immigration Lawyers will have experience and knowledge of these cases to give you that chance. Contact De Castroverde Criminal & Immigration Lawyers today to start the conversation for a brighter future for you and your family.