In most places in the United places, reckless and aggressive driving are distinct traffic crimes. Both serious offenses can result in a large fine, jail time, and points on your driving record. Either violation may occur concurrently with a DUI arrest or as a distinct charge unrelated to DUI. If you are charged with reckless or aggressive driving, you should immediately seek a car accident lawyer in Fort Wayne.
Reckless driving
According to Indiana state law, reckless driving occurs when a driver demonstrates any of the following characteristics:
- Driving at an excessively fast or slow speed, threatening the safety of others
- Weaving in and out of traffic regularly
- Passing other cars in no-pass zones or on slopes or bends with restricted visibility
- Passing school buses that are stopped with their lights on
Aggressive driving
Aggressive driving occurs when a motorist demonstrates any of the following characteristics:
- Too closely following a car
- Unsafe stopping or slowing
- Failing to yield
- Taking a car off the road
- Disobeying traffic signals and signage
- Repeatedly flashing lights or blasting horns
Legal differences between reckless and aggressive driving
While both are harmful, reckless and aggressive driving, have distinct legal repercussions. Reckless driving is defined as driving a vehicle with disregard for the safety of individuals or property. Those who commit and are found guilty of reckless driving in Indiana risk a Class B misdemeanor, which carries a $1,000 fine and a prison sentence. Reckless driving may also result in a revoked driver’s license and a lawsuit if someone is injured.
Aggressive driving is a Class A misdemeanor in Indiana, punishable by up to a year in prison and a $5,000 fine. If aggressive driving happens in a highway work zone, the guilty party may face felony charges if the motorist injures a worker. Injuries in a work zone are a Class D crime, whereas killing a worker with aggressive driving is a Class C felony.
What is road rage
Extreme wrath behind the wheel is a common manifestation of road rage. Road rage can manifest itself in various ways, but it is not considered a crime or a traffic violation until it ends in an accident or a traffic penalty. Road rage can take several forms, including:
- Intentionally bumping or hitting another vehicle
- Blocking other vehicles for lane changes
- Cutting off another vehicle intentionally
- Yelling
- Rude gestures
- Horn honking
- Tailgating
If you are prone to displaying road rage, remember to give people a break. If someone is driving slowly, it is most likely due to their requirements or preferences, not to intentionally bother you.
