It used to be that people thought of “road rage” as two drivers screaming obscenities and exchanging hand gestures at one another. It’s escalated far beyond that. It’s not uncommon any longer for road rage incidents to turn deadly.
Even if no one is killed, acting in a threatening or violent way toward another motorist can land you in serious legal trouble – and potentially behind bars. While there aren’t specific “road rage” laws, there are plenty of laws against the kind of behavior often involved in these incidents.
Two recent Maryland road rage incidents and arrests
This month, a Prince George’s County woman was arrested for allegedly pointing a gun at another driver, who had a child in their car. She was charged with first-degree felony assault, misdemeanor assault and firearms-related offenses. She reportedly had two loaded handguns in her car.
Last month, a Pennsylvania man was arrested for attempted murder as well as gun charges, including the use of a gun in a felony, after he allegedly shot into another vehicle in Frederick County. No one in the other vehicle was injured.
Of course, as serious as these charges are, a person can face far more serious charges if someone is injured or killed. That can happen all too easily once loaded weapons are involved.
Dangerous driving can be part of a road rage incident
Even if a road rage incident doesn’t lead to a personal confrontation, driving in such a way that is intended to frighten or harm someone – or just to get your frustrations out — can also lead to criminal charges. Aggressive driving is a crime, as is reckless driving. If alcohol and/or drugs are involved, a driver can face impaired driving charges.
Even if someone else starts a confrontation on the road or in a parking lot or is at fault for doing something reckless or rude, it’s always best not to respond. That will only escalate the situation. It’s better to drive away from the area. If the person follows you, drive to a police station – not home.
Of course, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment – especially if someone has put you or your passengers at risk. If you find yourself facing charges related to a road rage incident, it’s important to take the matter seriously and get legal guidance as soon as possible.